3D printer prices will drop as sales climb, Gartner predicts

October 05, 2013

The number of 3D printers being sold is set to double by 2015 despite hype outpacing technical realities, according to analysts at Gartner. The firm predicts that worldwide shipments of 3D printers costing less than $100,000 will grow 49 percent in 2013, bringing the total number to 56,507 units. "The 3D printer market has reached its inflection point," said Pete Basiliere, research director at Gartner in a statement. "While still a nascent market, with hype outpacing the technical realities, the speed of development and rise in buyer interest are pressing hardware, software and service providers to offer easier-to-use tools and materials that produce consistently high-quality results." Business to boost sales In 2013, Gartner predicts, combined end-user spending on 3D printers will climb to $412 million, up 43 percent from spending of $288 million in 2012. More than three-quarters of the spending, $325 million, will come from the enterprise market, while the consumer segment will reach nearly $87 million. To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here

Link: http://www.pcworld.com/article/2052591/3d-printer-prices-will-drop-as-sales-climb-gartner-predicts.html#tk.rss_all