Is Thingiverse Dead? [2024] 💀

Have you ever wondered if Thingiverse, the popular website for sharing user-created digital design files, is still alive and kicking? Well, you’re not alone! In this article, we’ll dive deep into the current state of Thingiverse and explore whether it’s still a vibrant community for 3D printing enthusiasts like you. So, grab your favorite 3D printer and let’s find out if Thingiverse is dead or alive! 🚀

Quick Answer: Is Thingiverse Dead? ✅

No, Thingiverse is not dead! Despite some concerns and competition from other platforms, Thingiverse continues to be a thriving community for 3D printing enthusiasts. It remains one of the largest repositories of user-created 3D models and designs, with millions of active users and a vast library of downloadable files. So, rest assured, you can still find a treasure trove of 3D printable objects on Thingiverse. But let’s dig deeper to understand the current state of this popular platform.

Quick Tips and Facts

• Thingiverse is a website for sharing user-created digital design files, primarily offering free, open-source hardware designs licensed under GNU General Public License or Creative Commons licenses.
• It was started in November 2008 by Zach “Hoeken” Smith as a companion site to MakerBot Industries.
• Thingiverse was acquired by Stratasys, a leading 3D printing company, in 2013.
• The platform has over a million open-source hardware designs, making it a go-to resource for 3D printer enthusiasts.
• Thingiverse is widely used in the DIY technology and Maker communities, enabling prosumers to manufacture their own products.

Background: The Rise of Thingiverse 📜

To understand the current state of Thingiverse, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore its history. Thingiverse was launched in October 2008 by Zach “Hoeken” Smith as a companion site to MakerBot Industries, one of the pioneers in the consumer 3D printing industry. It quickly gained popularity among the growing community of 3D printer enthusiasts and DIY makers.

In 2013, MakerBot and Thingiverse were acquired by Stratasys, a leading player in the professional 3D printing market. This acquisition brought more resources and support to Thingiverse, further fueling its growth and expanding its user base.

The Vibrant Community of Thingiverse 🌟

One of the key reasons why Thingiverse is still alive and thriving is its vibrant community. The platform attracts millions of users, ranging from beginners to experienced 3D printing enthusiasts. It serves as a hub for sharing and discovering 3D printable objects, fostering creativity and collaboration among its users.

With over a million open-source hardware designs, Thingiverse offers a vast library of 3D models across various categories. Whether you’re looking for functional parts, artistic sculptures, or practical tools, you’re likely to find something that suits your needs on Thingiverse.

The Power of Open Source 🌐

One of the defining features of Thingiverse is its commitment to open-source hardware. The majority of designs on the platform are licensed under GNU General Public License or Creative Commons licenses, allowing users to freely modify, remix, and share the designs. This open approach has contributed to the growth and popularity of Thingiverse, as it encourages collaboration and innovation within the community.

The Competition: Thingiverse vs. Alternatives 🤼‍♂️

While Thingiverse remains a dominant player in the 3D printing community, it’s not without competition. Several alternative platforms have emerged over the years, offering similar services and features. Let’s take a look at some of the notable competitors and how they stack up against Thingiverse:

1. Cults3D: Cults3D is a popular platform known for its curated collection of high-quality 3D models. It focuses on providing a premium experience for both designers and users, with a strong emphasis on quality control and customer support. However, Cults3D’s library is not as extensive as Thingiverse’s, and it may require a subscription for access to certain premium features.

2. Yeggi: Yeggi is a search engine for 3D printable models, aggregating designs from various platforms, including Thingiverse. It offers a convenient way to discover models from different sources, but it lacks the community-driven features and interactivity of Thingiverse.

3. Free3D: Free3D is another platform that hosts a wide range of 3D models, including both free and paid options. It provides a marketplace-like experience, allowing designers to sell their creations. However, Free3D’s focus on commercial models may limit the availability of free and open-source designs compared to Thingiverse.

4. MyMiniFactory: MyMiniFactory prides itself on its curated collection of high-quality 3D printable models. It places a strong emphasis on design integrity and user experience, ensuring that the models on the platform are reliable and print-ready. While MyMiniFactory may not have the same quantity of models as Thingiverse, it offers a more curated and reliable selection.

5. Pinshape: Pinshape is a platform that aims to connect designers and users in a collaborative environment. It offers features like design challenges and a marketplace for selling 3D printable models. Pinshape’s community-driven approach sets it apart from Thingiverse, but it may not have the same depth of content.

6. CGTrader: CGTrader is primarily known as a marketplace for 3D models, catering to both professional designers and hobbyists. While it offers a vast selection of models, it may not have the same community-driven features and open-source ethos as Thingiverse.

7. TurboSquid: TurboSquid is another marketplace for 3D models, with a focus on professional-grade assets. It caters more to the needs of industries like gaming, animation, and visual effects, rather than the DIY and Maker communities that Thingiverse serves.

FAQ

How many users does Thingiverse have?

Thingiverse boasts a large and active user base, with millions of registered users. While exact numbers are not publicly available, the platform continues to attract new users and retain its existing community.

Who is the owner of Thingiverse?

Thingiverse is currently owned by Ultimaker, a leading manufacturer of 3D printers. Ultimaker acquired Thingiverse as part of its acquisition of MakerBot Industries in 2013.

Read more about “Thingiverse Login: The Ultimate Guide to Logging In and Getting the Most Out of Your Experience … 😎”

Can I print straight from Thingiverse?

Yes, Thingiverse allows users to download 3D models and print them directly on their 3D printers. You can choose from a wide range of designs, customize them if needed, and bring them to life with your printer.

Read more about “Is Thingiverse Free? …”

How many models does Thingiverse have?

As of now, Thingiverse hosts over a million open-source hardware designs. This vast library covers a wide range of categories, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

Conclusion: Thingiverse is Alive and Kicking! 🎉

In conclusion, Thingiverse is far from dead! It continues to be a vibrant community for 3D printing enthusiasts, offering a vast library of user-created 3D models and designs. With millions of active users and a commitment to open-source hardware, Thingiverse remains a go-to resource for both beginners and experienced makers.

While there are alternative platforms that offer unique features and experiences, Thingiverse’s community-driven approach and extensive library set it apart. So, if you’re looking for inspiration, ready-to-print models, or a place to share your own creations, Thingiverse is still the place to be.

So, fire up your 3D printer, explore the wonders of Thingiverse, and let your creativity soar! Happy printing! 🖨️

Recommended Links

• Beginner’s Guides: Learn the basics of 3D printing and get started on your own printing journey.
• 3D Printable Objects: Discover a wide range of 3D printable objects for various purposes and interests.
• Commercial 3D Printing Projects: Explore the world of commercial 3D printing and see how it’s transforming industries.
• Free 3D Models: Find a collection of free 3D models to download and print on your own printer.
• 3D Printing Techniques: Learn advanced techniques and tips to take your 3D printing skills to the next level.

Looking for more information about Thingiverse? Check out our article about Thingiverse on 3D Printed™.

Reference Links

• Thingiverse – Wikipedia: Get more insights into the history and development of Thingiverse on Wikipedia.
• Ultimaker: Learn more about Ultimaker, the current owner of Thingiverse.
• MakerBot Industries: Explore MakerBot Industries, the company behind the creation of Thingiverse.
• Stratasys: Discover Stratasys, the leading 3D printing company that acquired MakerBot and Thingiverse.