Kare 3D S1: The Desktop Printer That Claims to Handle Both Metal and Plastic Filaments

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. If the claims hold up, it would be one of the few desktop machines to tackle metal printing without requiring a completely separate system.

High-Temperature Hardware

The Kare S1's headline specs are built around extreme temperatures. The print head can heat up to 550°C, while the heated bed reaches up to 150°C. Together, these temperatures open the door to a wide range of materials — from standard PLA and PETG to high-performance plastics like PEEK and PEKK, and potentially metal-filled filaments that require sintering after printing.

Two Build Volumes

The standard S1 offers a 200 x 200 x 200 mm build volume, while the S1 Plus extends the Z-height to 480 mm for larger prints. Both models feature a 4.3-inch touchscreen interface, USB/SD card/Wi-Fi connectivity, and an aluminum frame. Layer resolution goes down to 10 microns, with print speeds up to 500 mm/s.

Metal Printing Requires Extra Hardware

For true metal printing, Kare 3D offers an optional Kare Metal Set that includes a sintering furnace and a washing unit. Printed metal parts are processed through these units after the print job is complete. The company says the S1 works with its own Kare Slicer software as well as third-party options including Cura, Simplify3D, and Repetier-Host.

Kickstarter Details

The campaign is seeking £52,275 and has currently raised about £16,000. Reward tiers range from £1 contributions to an £8,000 "Kare S1 Printing Kit" that includes the furnace, washing unit, and a spool of 316L stainless steel filament (though the printer itself is not included in that tier). The campaign launched on June 28, 2026.

What to Watch

While the specs are compelling on paper, desktop metal 3D printing has proven challenging for several startups in recent years. The key questions will be whether the 550°C hotend can reliably handle metal-filled filaments, whether the sintering process produces consistent results, and whether the company can deliver on its timeline. Early backers should weigh these risks against the potential to have a multi-material desktop system at a competitive price point.