Migo Is the Most Intriguing 3D Printer I’ve Seen in Years

It’s pretty rare that I come across a new 3D printer model that is worthy of my excitement. After years in the industry, both on a hobby and a professional level, I feel like I’ve seen it all. Maybe you feel the same way. There are hundreds of hobbyist 3D printers on the market, but few of them really stand out.

Then I saw the Kickstarter campaign for Migo, and I finally felt some of that same thrill as when I first starting 3D printing. Lets get the basics out of the way: Migo, and it’s bigger brother Migo L, are portable FFF (fused filament fabrication) 3D printers. They’re affordable, $149 and $319 respectively, and aimed squarely at the maker community.

Why am I so excited about Migo? On a purely cosmetic level, it’s just a very attractive design. However, that design is more than just skin deep. Everything about it has been optimized for portability, even down to the filament spool enclosure, to keep things tidy. The outer case is extruded aluminum, ensuring both durability and rigidity.

Migo also has the functionality to back up its good looks. 9-point auto-leveling makes it easy to use, internet and smartphone integration make control a breeze, and a built-in camera lets you monitor your prints. Considering the small overall size, both models have a generous print size: 100x120x100 mm for the Migo, and 150x150x150 mm for the Migo L.

Perhaps the most intriguing feature, though, is the interchangeable print head. This can be swapped out for a laser engraver, making Migo useful for far more than just 3D printing. For novices, Migo has custom software specifically designed for education, including slicing software, control software, and even a beginner-friendly 3D modeling program.

Backers should expect to have their orders shipped in July of 2018.