Share this project

Done

Share this project

Done
3D Printing for work, home and play. 101Hero gives everyone simple, affordable, and dependable 3D printing starting from only $49.
3D Printing for work, home and play. 101Hero gives everyone simple, affordable, and dependable 3D printing starting from only $49.
3D Printing for work, home and play. 101Hero gives everyone simple, affordable, and dependable 3D printing starting from only $49.
Created by
3,698 backers pledged $434,275 to help bring this project to life.

About this project

101Hero: The World's First $49 3D Printer project video thumbnail
Replay with sound
Play with
sound

101Hero: The World's First $49 3D Printer

$434,275

pledged of $20,000 goal

101Hero: 3D Printing For Everyone

Our mission is to give everyone the chance to dream, design and create. Unleash your creativity and bring your ideas to life! 101Hero makes 3D printing easy and fun for youngsters, students and professionals alike.

As the most affordable 3D printer in the world the 101Hero is accessible for everyone. Getting started is as easy as 1-2-3. Simply insert the memory card, press the button, and watch your custom creations form right before your eyes.

101Hero 3D Printer
101Hero 3D Printer

Creativity is no longer limited to experts using complicated software and expensive printers. Now anyone can learn, imagine and print.

How Easy is 101Hero?

  • Using the Consumer Version (CV) 3D printing is as easy as inserting an SD card with a design file on it and pressing a button. Your creation begins to print.
  • No connection to computer is needed, simply plug the 101Hero into a power source, insert memory card and go!
  • The 101Hero includes custom color filament and set-up is simple. You will be 3D printing in minutes.
  • Download 3D designs from the 101Hero website or create your own. You are limited only by your imagination.
  • 101Hero’s small, lightweight size makes it perfect for the home, classroom or business.
  • For advanced designs the Designer and Developer Version (DV) can connect to a Windows, Mac, or Linux computer to create and print directly using free open-source software.

What can I make with 101Hero 3D Printer?

Just about anything! 101Hero can create single or multi-part 3D objects for endless creative possibilities including:

  • 3D shapes and 3D models
  • Toys, gifts, jewellery, pendants and ornaments
  • Decorative art and fridge magnets
  • Personalised everyday objects (iPhone cases, pens, and more!)
  • Accessories for Lego and other popular toys
  • Robotics and Chess pieces
  • Useful household solutions
  • Arts and crafts
  • Replacement machine components
  • Classroom and lab pieces

And much, much more…

Everyone is a Maker

We designed 101Hero to be easy for anyone to use. It’s a great way to inspire creativity and curiosity in children at home or in the classroom. Use it to make toys, gifts, art and useful solutions for the home.

Using the 101Hero Consumer Version (CV) simply download designs from our website onto a memory card and create directly using only the printer. With the CV version anyone can 3D print in minutes.

101Hero Grows with You

From simple downloadable projects to fully custom 3D models the 101Hero can grow with you as your journey of creativity progresses. Our Designer & Developer Version (DV) is USB connectable and can be used with any Windows, Mac, or Linux based computer and supports open-source software such as Slic3r or Cura for advanced users. Simply load the 101Hero setting file and generate a custom G-code file for the printer.

101Hero 3D Printer Working Video (move down)

For those who are interested to see a demonstration of a printing project from start to finish we have included this long form video. It’s a chance to see the 101Hero in action from the first press of the button to the end result. 

The finished design that was printed in the video above is a tiered Pyramid with a base size area of only 3 cm squared.

the small Pyramid Printed in the above video
the small Pyramid Printed in the above video

To get an idea of scale and detail here is the Hexagon that 101Hero printed for our introduction video.

Detail close-up of Hexagon printed in the introduction video
Detail close-up of Hexagon printed in the introduction video

Material & Filament options

You can use PLA, HIPS or ABS, as well as our custom 101Hero filament spools or other standard 1.75 mm filament spools available on the market.

101Hero Filaments Spools
101Hero Filaments Spools
What's the difference? We specially made a number of 101Hero filament spools so that people can print with more materials and color choices. By choosing the $99 pledge you will receive 10 different spools of vibrant colors. These spools are lightweight at 30g each so shipping is not a problem and they provide enough colorful material for plenty of printing work.
 

Technical Specifications

101Hero Mini 3D Printer Technical Data
101Hero Mini 3D Printer Technical Data

Consumer Version (CV): 

  • Printer Form factor: Polygon 
  • Weight: Approximately 3.9 lbs. (1.8 kg)
  • Print size: Height 100mm (3.93") Base Print Area φ150mm (5.9")
  • Print materials: ABS, PLA, Nylon, and others
  • Filament: Standard 1.75mm rolls supported
  • Removable Print Bed
  • Resolution: 50-350 micron layer
  • Positioning accuracy: 150 micron X and Y
  • User Interface: 101Hero SD Card mode for an effortless, plug-and-play experience using lab-tested and print ready G-code files from our website.
  • Printer Form factor: Polygon 
Please note: if you pledged for a CV version but wish to upgrade to a DV version, please add $5 to your pledge and send us a message.

Designer & Developer Version (DV)
  • All features of 101Hero 3D Printer Consumer Version (CV)
  • Can also be used with any Windows, Mac, or Linux based computer
  • Compatible with USB connection or SD Card
  • Supports open-source software such as Slic3r or Cura (for advanced users)
Please note - Consumer Version and Designer/Developer Version are identical with the following exception:
  • CV - Consumer Version (Only Memory Card Mode supported, Beginner user recommended)
  • DV - Designer & Developer Version (Both Memory Card Mode & USB Connection Mode supported, supports open-source software and self-designed models, recommended for advanced users)
How did we achieve such a low price?

Our motivation was to make 3D printing affordable and easy for everyone. We starting way back in 2013 by trying literally hundreds of component combinations. When we found the iteration that worked best in its simplest form, we redesigned and customized the motor while leaving only the essential structure needed for stable, quality 3D printing to make it affordable, simple and easy to use.

101Hero’s cutting-edge technologies and specialized components give it a completely different cost structure than any other 3D printer. We have built more complex and more expensive 3D printers in the past and built upon that valuable experience to simplify design, optimize performance, and minimize costs.

Hard work, perseverance and never compromising our goals paid off and now we're really excited to take the next step and bring 101Hero to you.

We rewarded our earliest supporters with 101Hero for only $49. Those limited rewards went fast but there is still incredible pricing available.

The retail price for 101Hero will be $99 but there is still time to save, for just $74 you can get a 101Hero with 2 rolls of printing plastic while that Pledge level lasts. See our rewards list below for more details.
101Hero 3D Printer Assembly Structure Rendering
101Hero 3D Printer Assembly Structure Rendering
Delivery and Set-up
In order to lower shipping costs and protect the 101Hero during shipping, your printer will arrive 90% pre-assembled. Set-up is simple and can be accomplished by anyone in minutes with just the turn of a few screws. Once final assembly is complete, simply insert the memory card, press the button and start creating!

In addition to rewards listed for your pledge level, the 101Hero will include a detailed instruction manual and a 100-240V A/C power adapter with a country-specific plug (EU, US, UK, AU).

Note: Flash, Iron Man and Captain American figures seen in the photo are not included.

90% Finished Pre-Assembled Parts
90% Finished Pre-Assembled Parts
101Hero 3D Printer Reward List
101Hero 3D Printer Reward List
Thank you for your support!
Thank you for your support!

101Hero 3D Printer Production Time Line

101Hero 3D Printer Production Time Line
101Hero 3D Printer Production Time Line

Who are we?

We are a group of designers and engineers who are passionate about making a 3D Printer that is affordable and accessible to everyone. We have been involved with low-cost solutions and open source technology for 3D printing since 2013. Since then, our goal has been to break down cost and complexity barriers to 3D printing so that everyone can do it.

During the last few years we put together a great team, we have a genius designer and some of the best engineers and programmers in the industry all committed to the 101Hero project.

Now that we have launched on Kickstarter we have discovered that there are thousands of folks just like us who want the freedom and creativity of 3D printing at a great price. We would like to give a special thanks to so many supporters, motivators, backers, team members, and advisors that helped us get to where we are so quickly.

Thanks from the team: Paul Keung, Shin Lau, and Shuo Shu

Risks and challenges

We've been working on 101Hero for over 2 years and had initially intended to launch in December 2014. We held back so that we could ensure the prototype worked perfectly (check out the video, it does!) and so that we could prepare the plastic injection molds. Now that we are confident that we can deliver the high quality that we demand, we have launched our campaign.

The risks inherent in volume manufacturing are real and we’ve taken every precaution to prepare for and actively address them should they arise. With the support of our manufacturing and distribution partners we are well equipped for the challenges ahead. We promise to maintain transparency and to keep our backers updated and informed about any issues that may arise and our solutions to such.

Our passion and mission is to deliver the best possible 101Hero Mini 3D Printer into your hands ASAP. So please go back to the top of the page and support us with a pledge now.

Learn about accountability on Kickstarter

FAQ

  • When the Kickstarter campaign ends, we’ll send everyone a survey asking you exactly what you want.

    Last updated:
  • Theoretically you do could print 3D printer parts and build your own. However, first you need to know how to design a 3D Printer and how to assemble a 3D printer.

    Last updated:
  • You can download 3D models from certain forums or create a 3D model using software such as Blender, 123D, Solidworks, 3DSMax, ProE, or others. Preparing designs for 3D printing also requires using slicer software. But all this is possible for advanced users.

    We encourage you to learn and we plan to have video tutorials on our website to support this in the future!

    Last updated:
  • Any open-source software such as slic3r, or Cura. You just need to load the 101Hero setting file then the software can slice the file automatically.

    Last updated:
  • Don’t worry! 101Hero Consumer Version is specially designed for beginners! You can simply download files from our online 3D Model library, save the G-code file to your SD card, then follow the steps in the video. With 101Hero, 3D printing is as easy as 1-2-3 !

    Last updated:
  • Right now our team is in Shenzhen preparing for mass production but the final 101Hero product will ship from nearby Hong Kong

    Last updated:

Rewards

  1. Select this reward

    Pledge $5 or more About $5 USD

    HALL OF FAME: Thanks for your contribution! Even if you aren't ready for a 101Hero Mini 3D Printer, you can still drink the kool-aid with us, get updates, and make the Hall of Fame on our website.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    35 backers
  2. Select this reward

    Pledge $25 or more About $25 USD

    Enthusiasts: Support the idea of ultra-affordable 3D Printing! You will receive an 101Hero T-Shirt.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    2 backers
  3. All gone!

    Pledge $49 or more About $49 USD

    EARLY BIRDS:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Customer Version (Only SD Card mode supported)
    + A roll of plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    All gone! 101 backers
  4. All gone!

    Pledge $54 or more About $54 USD

    EARLY BIRDS:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode all supported)
    + A rool of plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    All gone! 101 backers
  5. Select this reward

    Pledge $74 or more About $74 USD

    101Heroes:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Customer Version (Only SD Card mode supported)
    + 2 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (300 left of 500) 200 backers
  6. Select this reward

    Pledge $79 or more About $79 USD

    101Heroes:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode all supported)
    + 2 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (208 left of 2000) 1,792 backers
  7. Select this reward

    Pledge $99 or more About $99 USD

    COLORFUL 101Heroes:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Customer Version (Only SD Card mode supported)
    + 10 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (411 left of 500) 89 backers
  8. Select this reward

    Pledge $104 or more About $104 USD

    COLORFUL 101Heroes:
    + Full 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode all supported)
    + 10 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (360 left of 1500) 1,140 backers
  9. Select this reward

    Pledge $153 or more About $153 USD

    101Hero Double :
    + 2 PCS of 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode both supported)
    + 4 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (162 left of 300) 138 backers
  10. Select this reward

    Pledge $222 or more About $222 USD

    101Hero Triple:
    + 3 PCS of 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode both supported)
    + 6 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (272 left of 300) 28 backers
  11. Select this reward

    Pledge $365 or more About $365 USD

    101Hero Workshop Equip:
    + 5 PCS of 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode both supported)
    + 10 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (191 left of 200) 9 backers
  12. Select this reward

    Pledge $699 or more About $699 USD

    101Hero Classroom Equip:
    + 10 PCS of 101Hero 3D Printer Designer Version ( USB connection & SD Card mode both supported)
    + 20 rolls of different color plastic filament
    + A Hall of Fame mention.

    Less
    Estimated delivery:
    Ships to: Anywhere in the world
    Limited (97 left of 100) 3 backers

Funding period

- (30 days)