MakerBot Replicator Mini 3D printer ships this spring

If you are the sort that likes to create your own stuff, you may think that having your own 3D printer is something that would make your life much better. The problem is that many 3D printers cost thousands of dollars putting them out of reach. MakerBot has announced a new 3D printer that also happens to be the cheapest one it makes.

The printer is called the MakerBot Replicator Mini and it was unveiled during CES 2014 earlier this year. The printer is now up for pre-order and you can get one for $1375. That is about half the cost of the full size Replicator.

As you might guess with the word "mini" in the name, this printer is for making smaller items. It can produce items that measure up to 3.9" x 3.9" x 4.9". The printer is built for fast printing and uses a build plate that requires no leveling.

Items are constructed from the readily available MakerBot PLA Filament that can be had in 17 colors. The printer is certainly much more affordable than others out there, but one key bit of detail is still unknown. While the Mini is up for pre-order the exact ship date is unannounced. All we know is the printer will ship this spring.