Kare 3D Kare S1: The Desktop 3D Printer That Handles Both Metal and Plastic

A Bold Claim: One Printer, Two Materials

Istanbul-based startup Kare 3D has launched a Kickstarter campaign for the Kare S1, a desktop 3D printer that the company says can process both metal and plastic filaments through the same hardware. This is a rare claim in the desktop 3D printing space, where metal and plastic printing typically require entirely separate machines and workflows.

Technical Specifications

The Kare S1 packs impressive specs for a desktop machine:

• Print head temperature: Up to 550°C
• Bed temperature: Up to 150°C
• Print speed: Up to 500 mm/s
• Build volume (S1): 200 x 200 x 200 mm
• Build volume (S1 Plus): 200 x 200 x 480 mm
• Resolution: 10 microns
• Interface: 4.3-inch touchscreen
• Connectivity: USB, SD card, Wi-Fi
• Extruder: Direct drive or Orbiter
• Frame: Aluminum
• Power: 110V / 220V

Metal Printing Workflow

For metal printing, Kare 3D offers an optional Kare Metal Set, which includes a sintering furnace and a washing unit to process printed metal parts after the print job is complete. This follows the same debinding-sintering workflow used by established metal binder jetting systems, but packaged for desktop use.

Software Compatibility

The S1 is designed to work with Kare 3D's own Kare Slicer software as well as third-party options including Cura, Simplify3D, and Repetier-Host, giving backers flexibility in how they prepare print files.

Kickstarter Campaign Details

The campaign is seeking £52,275 and has raised £16,082 from six backers so far, with the funding deadline set for August 27, 2026. Backer tiers range from £1 contributions to an £8,000 "Kare S1 Printing Kit," which includes the furnace, washing unit, and a spool of 316L stainless steel filament — though the printer itself is not included in that tier.

What to Watch

Kare 3D has broken down its budget allocation as 51% toward general and miscellaneous costs, 22% toward manufacturing, 18% toward taxes and fees, and 9% toward compliance. While the dual-material claim is compelling, the success of the project will ultimately depend on the quality of the sintering furnace, the reliability of the high-temperature hotend, and whether the company can deliver on its ambitious timeline.