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Snapmaker U1 3D printer with automatic toolchanging system and four filament spools

Snapmaker U1: Toolchanging 3D Printer for Fast and Clean Prints


Snapmaker returns to Kickstarter with the Snapmaker U1, a next-generation 3D printer that brings high-speed, intelligent, and low-waste printing to the consumer market. As toolchanging systems are known for their efficiency in multimaterial capabilities, the U1 aims to become a leap forward in accessible, colorful, and efficient 3D printing.


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Where to Buy the Snapmaker U1

Price: Kickstarter early bird $749 (MSRP 999)
Super early bird with deposit from $679.
The product will be launched as part of a Kickstarter campaign. Here is the sign-up link:

Official Website

This is a Kickstarter campaign, and like all crowdfunding projects, rewards are not guaranteed. However, Snapmaker has a strong track record of delivering on its promises. Previous successful campaigns include:

Snapmaker Original (March 2017): 5,050 backers pledged $2,277,182
Snapmaker 2.0 (May 2019): 7,388 backers pledged $7,850,866

About Snapmaker

Snapmaker first rose to global prominence through two record-breaking Kickstarter campaigns, launching all-metal, multi-discipline 3-in-1 machines that combined 3D printing, laser engraving and cutting, and CNC carving. These became some of the most successful technology Kickstarters of all time.

With the Snapmaker U1, the company is returning to its roots — not just to launch a new product, but to reconnect with the community that helped build its legacy.

Kickstarter is where Snapmaker started, and our backers have always been a vital part of our journey,” said Daniel Chen, Snapmaker CEO. “With U1, we’re going back to our roots — combining what we’ve learned with what our community dreams of.

Snapmaker is empowering creators worldwide with high-quality desktop fabrication tools, best known for its all-in-one machines that support prototyping, education, and artistic expression — all driven by its mission to ‘Make Something Wonderful.’

Snapmaker U1 Features and Specifications

While full specifications will be released on the day of the Kickstarter launch, Snapmaker has already revealed some standout features that highlight the U1’s potential for high-performance, multimaterial 3D printing in a compact desktop form.

  • CoreXY Motion System: Designed for fast and stable movement, paired with a fully enclosed chamber ideal for temperature-sensitive materials.
  • SnapSwap™ Toolchanging: An intelligent automatic toolchanging system that reduces filament waste by up to 80% by eliminating the need for constant purging during material swaps.
Side-by-side comparison of multicolor print quality: Snapmaker U1 vs other toolchanging system
Multicolor comparison: U1 produces smoother color transitions and cleaner layer alignment than other toolchanging setups.

Specifications:

FeatureSpecification
Printing TechnologyFused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
Build Volume270mm × 270mm × 270mm
Max Toolhead Speed500 mm/s
Max Acceleration Speed20,000 mm/s²
Toolheads Included4
Max Flow for Hot End32 mm³/s
NozzleStainless Steel (more options in testing)
Max Nozzle Temperature300°C
Nozzle Diameter0.4 mm
Filament Diameter1.75 mm
Part CoolingMain & Auxiliary Part Cooling Fans
Build PlatePEI
Max Heated Bed Temperature100°C
Basic Material CompatibilityPLA, PETG, TPU, PVA
With Optional Seal Cover (Coming Soon)PET, ABS, ASA
With Seal Cover & Hardened Steel Nozzle (Coming Soon)PC, PA, PA-CF, PA-GF (more options in testing)

Find the full list of specifications at the end of the page on the Official Website.

Four Toolheads Work as One

Rather than swapping the entire toolhead, Snapmaker U1 uses its intelligent SnapSwap™ system to switch out key tool components — such as hotends or extruders — while keeping the main head in place. This allows up to four materials or colors to be used in a single print, with sharp transitions and minimal purging, all within a tightly integrated and efficient design.

Close-up view of Snapmaker U1 toolchanging system with four SnapSwap toolheads mounted in a row
A closer look at the SnapSwap system in action — the U1 features four swappable hotend modules that remain stationary until engaged by the main print head.

Snapmaker confirms that the U1 is in the final stages of production, with rigorous quality control underway. As the launch approaches, more technical details and real-world demonstrations will be shared to give the maker community a closer look at this ambitious release.


Launch Timeline & Availability

Price: coming soon
The product will be launched as part of a Kickstarter campaign. Here is the sign-up link:

Official Website

Below are official and exclusive images of the Snapmaker U1 in action. Each test print highlights a specific use case, ranging from small to complex models and covering a variety of material types. Detailed comparisons highlight the printer’s efficiency in terms of time and filament savings. More images of test prints will be added following our hands-on testing.

3D printed dragon skull with orange PETG supports, showing Snapmaker U1 print time and filament savings compared to other systems
Dragon Skull print using Snapmaker U1 with PETG support material. The system completed the print in 14 hours.
(Designer: @PrintedIntoEx_318934)
4-color dragon figure 3D printed on Snapmaker U1, showing significant time and filament savings compared to other systems
This 4-color dragon figure was printed on the Snapmaker U1 in just 5 hours.
(Designer: @IK3Digital)
Complex bridge 3D print with red PLA and white PVA support material on Snapmaker U1, showing print time and filament savings
This complex bridge print using PVA support material was completed on the Snapmaker U1 in just 15.5 hours.
(Designer: @BoSeong Hwang)
Multicolor articulated tiger figure 3D printed on Snapmaker U1, with significant time and filament savings compared to other printers
This large articulated tiger figure was printed on the Snapmaker U1 in 42 hours using 877g of filament.
(Designer: @MatMire_Makes)
Multiple multicolor animal figurines 3D printed on Snapmaker U1 build plate, demonstrating time and filament savings
This full build plate of multicolor animal figurines was printed on the Snapmaker U1 in just 13 hours.
(Designer: @Yuskovych)
Multicolor robot action figure 3D printed on Snapmaker U1 with detailed support structures, showing time and filament savings
Long print: This highly detailed robot action figure, complete with support structures, was printed on the Snapmaker U1 in 44 hours.
(Designer: @teccotoys)

What’s Next

We’ll be thoroughly testing the Snapmaker U1, focusing on print quality, toolchanging accuracy, and material handling. Stay tuned for our full setup guide, slicer tips, and hands-on print results. Join the discussion on our forum or leave a comment below.

At 3DWithUs, we’ve previously tested and featured Snapmaker’s recent products, including the Snapmaker Artisan and Snapmaker Filament Dryer. We’re excited to add the U1 to our lineup and share our findings with the community soon.


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David
David

Will be looking forward for updates. Price isn’t that much of a concern, but build volume is. Personally want a minimum of 300mm cubed though added Z axis over that would be beneficial.

Max Funkner
Max Funkner
Reply to  David

300mm cubed would be big and too close to the Prusa XL (360mm cubed). I think they want to fill the gap and create a smaller toolchanger that’s more affordable.
Update: Official Specifications Build Volume: 270mm x 270mm x 270mm

Pete
Pete

No mention of build volume or price

Max Funkner
Max Funkner
Reply to  Pete

Sources say that the price will be available before the Kickstarter campaign. As for other specs, we are collecting bits and pieces from official announcements.