Microsoft To Sell MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D Printers At Retail Outlets

We’re seeing 3D printing incorporate itself into the mainstream rather quickly, from a sudden presence on Amazon, eBay, and Staples to driver support in Windows 8.1. The latest indication that 3D printing is the Next Big Thing is the fact that Microsoft is carving out space in its retail outlets to showcase MakerBot Replicator 2 Desktop 3D printers.

MakerBot Experience inside Microsoft retail store

18 total Microsoft stores in states including California, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia, and Washington are now offering a “MakerBot Experience” that lets customers see 3D printing in action.

You can buy a Replicator 2 and the filament you need right there in the store and take it all home that day.

MakerBot Replicator 2
MakerBot Replicator 2

"We've seen tremendous interest and enthusiasm at the three initial 'MakerBot Experience' stores,” said Bre Pettis, CEO of MakerBot. “Rolling the program out to 15 additional Microsoft Stores supercharges our mission to bring 3D printing to more people."

You can also buy a Replicator 2 at Microsoft’s online store; in either case, the cost is $2,549.