12-11-2018: MakerBot launched Method

Its first professional-grade 3D printer, signaling a departure from the era of consumer-focused devices

On December 11, 2018, MakerBot introduced Method, branded as the "first performance 3D printer." This was the first device entirely developed under its then-owner, Stratasys. Earlier models, such as the Replicator 5th or Z18, had been created by the original team led by Bre Pettis. The Method was entirely new and different, intended to chart a fresh course for the esteemed company. And to some extent, it did—for a while.

The Method was a large machine (65 cm tall!) with an enclosed, heated build chamber, two nozzles, smart extruders capable of detecting filament issues, wireless connectivity, and a live-streaming camera to monitor operations in real-time. Additional features included a 5-inch touchscreen interface and an automatic filament recognition and loading system, with filaments stored in internal drawers.

The only downside was its relatively small build volume: 19 x 19 x 19.6 cm when using a single extruder, and 15.2 x 19 x 19.6 cm when using both.

MakerBot also touted the device's high-speed performance, claiming it could print twice as fast as “popular desktop 3D printers”, extruding 50 cubic mm of filament per second, with a travel speed of up to 500 mm per second.

At launch, the Method looked impressive, and the change in direction seemed like a perfect move! Unfortunately, it soon became evident that the Method awkwardly competed with Stratasys' own F123 series, particularly the entry-level F120. Despite decent technical specs (aside from the small build area) and a premium price, the Method was often dismissed as a “poor man’s Stratasys,” which hindered its sales potential.

Three additional versions of the Method followed: X, X CF, and XL.

Later, Stratasys decided to rebrand MakerBot as an educational-focused brand and introduced Sketch (essentially a rebranded Flashforge printer). Then, MakerBot merged with Ultimaker, with whom the Method had been a direct competitor. Ultimately, MakerBot was fully repositioned as an educational brand, and the Method was absorbed into Ultimaker's portfolio, where it remains somewhat overshadowed by the Dutch company’s original 3D printers—much like it had been under the Stratasys F123 series.

Source: www.stratasys.com