I've had my Prusa mk3s for 5 years and it's still going strong. The vast majority of my prints turn out, and it's needed just a few minor repairs over the years.
Maybe I've put 25kg of plastic through it? It's sure not in use a huge fraction of the time.
I tried resin printing briefly & hated it. Sure, you get a bit more resolution but the physical process is just awful. And then there's the slicer software situation.
I look at all the multicolor 3D prints and feel a twinge of jealousy. Is 2026 the year to finally upgrade to a modern multi-material or multi-extruder printer? If so, what?
Must: work 100% with only local network connection, either with octoprint or providing similar functionality to local network
Must: require only minimal assembly
Must: be low maintenance & high reliability
Must: not be hostile to 3rd party parts/upgrades (e.g., nozzles)
Must: meet mk3s volume (250x210x210mm)
Would be nice: Usefully exceed mk3s volume in at least one dimension
Budget: Up to $1500USD or so?
#3dPrinting #FDM #lazyFedi