When will 3D printers become mainstream?

[gousa14]

I hope 3D printing becomes mainstream in my lifetime. What do you think a future with 3D printing looks like? Will we have companies who manufacture anything and everything in every metropolitan area? Can we even imagine creating things such as a landmass for example?

[Josseppie]

Yes they will become mainstream and we will have Star Trek style replicators in less then 20 years.

[plwhit]

Originally Posted by gousa14

I hope 3D printing becomes mainstream in my lifetime. What do you think a future with 3D printing looks like? Will we have companies who manufacture anything and everything in every metropolitan area? Can we even imagine creating things such as a landmass for example?

Here are a couple of articles to give you an idea of "if" 3D printers will be anything other then a passing fad:

Date of article: 2.19.2014

3D printing: 10 factors still holding it back

3D printing: 10 factors still holding it back

Date of article: 3.5.2014

The dark side of 3D printing: 10 things to watch

The dark side of 3D printing: 10 things to watch

Date of Article: 2.11.2014

10 facts on 3D printing: Understanding tech's next big game-changer

10 facts on 3D printing: Understanding tech's next big game-changer

If you read these articles it will give you some answers to your question(s)

[Mr_Geek]

$200 3D printer will help if this works as advertised

The Micro is a $200 3D printer that can make a teacup in an hour