PlatformLake Forest, USAFounded 2012· One of 203 Platform companies tracked by AMPulse
A major US-based retailer of 3D printers, materials, and parts, also developing their own line of software (MatterControl) and filaments (PRO Series). They offer a wide range of products for both consumers and industrial users.
Their development of MatterControl software provides a seamless user experience for their customers and allows for greater integration with the hardware they sell. Their extensive product range and focus on customer support and education builds a strong community and customer loyalty.
Differentiation
Value Proposition
To make 3D printing easier and more accessible for everyone by providing a one-stop shop for hardware, software, materials, and support.
How They Differentiate
MatterHackers stands out through its comprehensive ecosystem of hardware, software (MatterControl), and materials, coupled with strong customer support and educational resources. Their physical retail presence and development of their own product lines provide a competitive edge.
Market & Competition
Target Customers
Hobbyists, educators, small businesses, and industrial clients.
Recognized in the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America.
Major Milestones
["2012: Company founded.","2013: Opened retail store in Lake Forest, CA.","2015: Launched MatterControl Touch.","2023: Acquired Source Graphics and announced collaboration with Formlabs.","2024: Partnership with BigRep"]
MatterHackers occupies a distinctive position in the desktop 3D printing market as a full-stack retailer that develops its own software and materials rather than simply reselling third-party products. Founded in 2012 and based in Lake Forest, California, the company has grown into one of the largest US retailers of 3D printing supplies, recognized on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies.
The company's core offering spans 3D printers, filaments, resins, parts, and accessories, with a focus on polymer material extrusion (MEX) and vat photopolymerization (VPP-SLA) technologies. Its proprietary MatterControl software provides hardware-software bed leveling and print management, while the PRO Series filament line targets users who want consistent quality beyond generic materials. A physical retail store in Lake Forest, opened in 2013, is unusual in an online-dominated segment and supports hands-on customer education.
MatterHackers serves hobbyists, educators, small businesses, and industrial clients across education, manufacturing, aerospace, medical, and automotive verticals. Named customers include Calexico Unified School District and Louis Vuitton. Key partnerships with Formlabs, Ultimaker, BCN3D, Raise3D, and BigRep broaden the hardware portfolio. The 2023 acquisition of Source Graphics added intellectual property related to anisotropic composite structures and advanced material processing methods.
The company's strategic moat lies in its integrated ecosystem of hardware, software, and materials, combined with strong customer support and educational resources. However, it faces competition from other large resellers such as Dynamism, Printed Solid, and 3DJake. The open question is whether MatterHackers can maintain its growth trajectory as the desktop 3D printing market matures and larger players like HP and Bambu Lab expand their direct sales channels.
Competitive Intelligence
Competitors, SWOT analysis, and investment insights