Is printing legos cheaper than buying?

Cost: Not Always a Clear Winner

On the surface, 3D printing seems like a money-saving superhero. You download a free LEGO brick design, print it yourself, and voila – endless bricks for the price of some filament! However, things aren’t quite that simple.

• Filament Cost: A spool of LEGO-compatible filament can cost around $20-$30, and depending on the complexity of your print, you might need more than one. This cost quickly adds up compared to a small LEGO set’s price.
• Printer Maintenance: Owning a 3D printer comes with calibration, maintenance, and potential repairs. These costs can chip away at your “savings.”
• Time is Money: Printing LEGO bricks takes time, often hours for a decent set. Factor in the design finding and editing process, and 3D printing can be a significant time investment.

Buying LEGO:

• Convenience: Walk into a store, grab a set, and start building – instant gratification! No waiting for prints or tinkering with settings.
• Quality Assurance: LEGO bricks are known for their precision and consistency. 3D printed bricks, while improving, might not always have the same perfect clutch and finish.
• Resale Value: Genuine LEGO sets hold their value surprisingly well. Printed creations, not so much.

So, which is cheaper? It depends. For small, basic builds, buying LEGO might be more cost-effective. But for complex, custom creations, 3D printing can save you money in the long run, especially if you’re printing multiple copies.

Quality: Brick-and-Forth Battle

LEGO bricks are the gold standard for a reason. They’re durable, have a satisfying clutch, and come in a mesmerizing array of colors and shapes. 3D printed bricks, while constantly improving, can still fall short in some areas:

• Strength and Clutch: 3D printed bricks might not be as strong or have the same perfect clutch as LEGO, especially for intricate builds.
• Surface Finish: Printed bricks can have visible layer lines and imperfections, impacting the overall look and feel.
• Color Options: While filament colors are expanding, they still pale in comparison to the LEGO rainbow.

However, 3D printing also has its quality advantages:

• Customization: Design and print any brick your heart desires! No more hunting for that elusive piece in a massive set.
• Unique Creations: Go beyond traditional LEGO sets and build truly one-of-a-kind masterpieces.
• Prototyping and Experimentation: Quickly test and iterate on your designs without the cost of buying multiple LEGO sets.

Creativity: Building Beyond the Box

This is where 3D printing truly shines. Imagine printing custom weapons for your minifigures, creating architectural marvels not found in any set, or even designing entirely new types of bricks. The creative possibilities are endless, limited only by your imagination and 3D modeling skills.

The Verdict: Bricks for Everyone

Ultimately, the choice between printing and buying LEGO comes down to your personal needs and priorities. If cost is your primary concern, buying standard sets might be the way to go. But if you crave customization, unique creations, and the thrill of pushing the boundaries of LEGO building, then 3D printing is your brick-tastic best friend.

Remember:

• Consider the cost of filament, printer maintenance, and your time investment when comparing prices.
• 3D printed bricks might not have the same quality as LEGO in every aspect, but they offer unmatched customization and creative freedom.
• Both options have their merits, so choose the one that best suits your building style and budget.

So, whether you’re a seasoned LEGO architect or a budding brick enthusiast, there’s a world of building fun waiting for you, whether it’s printed or purchased. Now, grab your bricks (real or digital) and start creating!

Happy Building!