MakiBox
Develops affordable desktop FDM 3D printers (e.g., MakiBox A6) and related materials for consumer and hobbyist use, aiming to democratize 3D printing with compact, self-contained designs.
- CEO / Founder
- Jonathan Buford
- Team Size
- 11-50
- Stage
- Defunct
- Total Funding
- Undisclosed
- Latest Round
- Crowdfunding
- Key Investors
- Crowdfunding backers
Technology & Products
Key Products
MakiBox A6 LT ($200, non-heated bed for PLA); MakiBox A6 HT ($300, heated bed for ABS/PLA); ABS/PLA filament (1.75mm, 3mm, 1mm diameters); Hot ends; Driver boards; Filament extruders (e.g., Ramen Extruder for pellets)
Technological Advantage
Proprietary hot end design claimed as most compact and efficient in market, enabling small printer size with large output; cost leadership through mass-produced parts and direct-to-consumer model. Advantage was replicable and not strongly defended.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
Reduces 3D printer cost to $200-$300 (vs. $2,000+ for competitors like MakerBot), offering a simple, reliable, and compact solution for home use with minimal assembly required.
How They Differentiate
3-10x lower price than MakerBot Replicator ($200-$300 vs. $2,000); more compact and self-contained than many RepRap kits; focused on simplicity and affordability over high-end features.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Entry-level consumers, hobbyists, and makers seeking low-cost 3D printing
Industry Verticals
Consumer Electronics; Education; Hobbyist/Maker
Competitors
MakerBot (Replicator); Ultimaker; Prusa Research
Growth & Milestones
Growth Metrics
Sold approximately 450 units of MakiBox 3D printer kits and 2,000 rolls of filament[3]; reached 1000th sale milestone triggering open-sourcing of design files[1]
Major Milestones
2011: Founded by Jon Buford; Jan 2012: Launched MakiBox A6 crowdfunding campaign at $300; 2012-2013: Reached beta stages and planned mass production for July 2013; 2014: Company ceased operations and liquidated inventory
Notable Customers
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology