xTool and Snapmaker are working together on a new 3D printer

xTool and Snapmaker are working on a 3D printer with a 4-head tool-changer

Over on Reddit, an image of a new 3D printer from xTool and Snapmaker has leaked, and it boasts some interesting features. For starters, the 3D printer has been shown completing a 4-material 3D print using what appears to be a 4-head tool changer. This makes this 3D printer feel more like a compacted Prusa XL than a standard core-XY 3D printer.

xTool is most commonly known for its laser cutters. Last year, we reviewed their P2 CO2 laser. Now, it looks like xTool is entering the 3D printing market with the help of Snapmaker.

In our eyes, this leak targets Bambu Lab and its newly released H2D 3D printer. As high-end as the H2D is, it doesn’t feature an automatic tool changer. This is the differentiating factor that xTool will use to stand out against established 3D printer brands. This 3D printer appears to be a prototype. As such, we should expect some design elements to change ahead of launch. That said, the image below shows several 3D printers in operation, suggesting that this 3D printer could be launching soon.

If this xTool x Snapmaker 3D printer indeed has a 4-way tool changer, it will be an awesome product for multi-material printing. It will also be great for single-filament 3D prints, as users may not need to swap their filament spools when moving from one material to another. Just load up your four favourite materials and your printer will be ready for most situations. That’s a nice situation to be in.

As Bambu Lab enters the laser cutting market with the H2D, xTool enters the 3D printing market. What an exciting time for the maker market!

You can join the discussion on the new xTool/Snapmaker 3D printer on the OC3D Forums.