LightMake L4 Brings Four Print Heads to Desktop 3D Printing

Four Heads, One Machine

LightMake is running a Kickstarter for the L4, a desktop 3D printer with four independently moving print heads. Each head can carry a separate filament, so the machine switches colors in about one second without the long purge cycles that plague most multi-color setups. The company claims a sample print generated less than 1 gram of waste material.

The four heads can also run in parallel. In duplication or mirror mode, the L4 prints up to four identical parts at once. That quadruples batch output without pushing travel speeds higher. For small print shops or makers who churn out repeated parts, that is the main selling point.

Motion System and Build Volume

Instead of stepper motors and belts, the L4 uses a beltless closed-loop linear-motor system. LightMake quotes travel speeds up to 1,000 mm/s and print speeds up to 500 mm/s, with motion precision of plus or minus 1 micron. A die-cast frame and active vibration control keep things stable, including opposing head movement in mirror mode. The linear motors are rated for more than 50,000 hours of operation.

Build volume reaches 354 x 370 x 386 mm. That is large enough for helmets, cosplay armor, and display pieces. An optional FEDS filament expansion and drying system can grow the machine to 16 colors. LightMake also promises an open-source slicer.

Price and Reality Check

Kickstarter pricing starts at $1,299 for the L4 Super Early Bird, compared to a $2,399 claimed MSRP. A single-head L1 costs $1,099. The L4 Thermo Pack runs $1,469, and a seven-color Thermo Pack costs $1,789.

Crowdfunding claims are not guarantees. Strange Parts and Bitner Built visited the factory, which adds some credibility, but long-term reliability, software polish, and real print quality remain unproven. If the campaign delivers on its specs, the L4 is one of the most ambitious desktop printers this year.