A new frontier in affordable metal 3D printing is being paved by Dutch engineer Thomas Martinus Gerardus Bakker, who has introduced the Metal 1.0 machine. Developed under his company, Metal Base, the Metal 1.0 is being touted as the world’s first accessible laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) system with a target price below €10,000. The project launched on Kickstarter with a goal of €51,000, and as of April 3, 2026, it has surpassed expectations, raising €110,870 from backers.
The Metal 1.0 is designed for labs, startups, and R&D teams needing production-ready metal components. Unlike traditional metal 3D printers that can exceed €100k, this machine is compact and can operate from a standard wall outlet, eschewing the need for expensive facility upgrades or specialized operators.
How Is the Metal 1.0 Affordable?
Metal Base has optimized the printer’s optics and motion systems to reduce costs while maintaining performance. Notably, the Metal 1.0 is sold as a kit, meaning users will assemble it themselves. The assembly process is designed to be straightforward, requiring only basic handyman skills and adhering to a detailed manual. The more delicate components, including precision Z-axis piston blocks and laser optics, are pre-fabricated at the factory.
Software, Materials, and Availability
The printer operates on Klipper firmware and is compatible with OrcaSlicer, offering users flexibility in their printing workflows. As a bona fide LPBF printer, it employs a high-power diode laser to melt metal powder selectively. Its material compatibility is broad, utilizing standard, lower-cost metal powders instead of heavy-duty proprietary cartridges.
The printing capabilities are impressive, with the current specifications achieving the following densities:
- 316L Stainless Steel & Inconel 718: Near-full density
- Bronze: 94% density
- Copper: Currently testing at 80% density
The Metal 1.0 features a build volume of 128 × 100 mm, which can be upgraded to 128 × 150 mm for an additional €2,000. It can produce a variety of items including functional brackets, tools, jewelry, and industrial parts.
The project is progressing rapidly, with Metal Base having sold 12 of their initial target of 20 units. The anticipated shipping schedule for the first machines is set for Q3–Q4 of 2026.
For more information or to follow the project, you can visit the Kickstarter campaign.