At the rate the 3D printing is expected to grow over the next few years, its market value could be worth as much as $16.2 billion by 2018.
Canalys senior analyst Tim Shepherd explained that while this is a fast-evolving market, it's "still in its infancy."Latest research from Canalys says the overall market, including the 3D printing machines and the total cost of supplies and services, has already reached a $2.5 billion in 2013, and is expected to rise to $3.8 billion this year.
According to the firm, the value of the 3D printer itself grew by 109 percent in 2013 to $711 million, and is expected to slow but retain strong growth to 79 percent this year to hit $1.3 billion.
Global 3D printing market
Estimates and forecast of market value to 2018 | ||||
| Category | 2013 (est.) | 2014 (est.) | 2018 (est.) | Growth ('13-'18) |
| Total | $2.5B | $3.8B | $16.2B | 45.7 percent |
| 3D printers | $0.7B | $1.3B | $5.4B | 50.1 percent |
| Services, materials | $1.8B | $2.5B | $10.8B | 43.8 percent |
| (Image: Canalysis estimates, forecasts) | ||||
