3D printing still suffers from the perception of being rough or “prototype-like”. In reality, modern additive manufacturing has reached a level of quality and reliability that makes it a serious production method for electronic products.
In parallel, the rise of accessible microcontrollers and single-board computers has transformed hardware development. Platforms such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi allow complex products to be built around a single MCU or CPU, with sensors, interfaces, and expansion boards added as required. The technical gap between mass-produced consumer electronics and custom-built devices is now extremely small. Raspberry Pi boards, for example, are manufactured in Sony’s UK facilities, and products like the Ableton Move are entirely based on a Raspberry Pi.
Electronics manufacturing has adapted accordingly. Low-volume PCBs, shields, and expansion boards can be designed and produced quickly through online services, making small production runs both viable and economical, as shown by the community on Tindie.
This is where 3D printing becomes a powerful production tool rather than just a prototyping step.
Unlike traditional manufacturing methods that require heavy tooling, long lead times, and overseas coordination, 3D printing allows production at any scale with minimal upfront cost. Parts can be manufactured locally, on demand, and without holding stock. Assembly can be done in-house or optimised for user assembly, following proven models such as Prusa’s printer kits.
Crucially, iteration is immediate. If an issue or improvement is identified, the CAD is updated and the next production run reflects the change. There is no tooling rework, no wasted inventory, and no delay between design and delivery.
Working closely with our manufacturing partner 3D People, specialists in SLS and MJF production, we deliver enclosures with consistent tolerances, refined finishes, and excellent mechanical performance. High-quality threaded inserts and mechanical fastening allow for durable, serviceable assemblies suitable for real-world products.
This approach underpins projects such as ORB, where we designed the electronics, firmware, and enclosure and delivered a fully functional, user-testable product in under one month.
By combining custom electronics design, dedicated firmware, and production-ready 3D-printed enclosures, we enable companies to move from concept to market-ready hardware faster, with less risk and greater flexibility. This makes 3D printing not a compromise, but a strategic advantage for low-volume, niche, and innovative electronic products.