Top 20 3D Printing Innovators of 2025: Leading the Additive Manufacturing Revolution
The 3D printing industry is reshaping manufacturing, from aerospace to healthcare, with a projected market value of $117.3 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 18.7% (IMARC Group). As additive manufacturing evolves, companies are pushing boundaries with innovative materials, faster printers, and sustainable solutions. Below, we dive into the top 20 3D printing companies, offering detailed insights into their founders, histories, headquarters, products, and unique strengths. This curated list, crafted with a market research lens, highlights trailblazers driving the future of this transformative technology.
1. 3D Systems Corporation
Founders: Chuck Hull
Founded Year: 1986
Headquarters: Rock Hill, South Carolina, USA
Product Categories: 3D printers, print materials, software, on-demand manufacturing services
Company Description:
3D Systems, founded by Chuck Hull, the inventor of stereolithography, is a pioneer in additive manufacturing. Since its inception in 1986, the company has expanded from prototyping to industrial-scale production, serving industries like aerospace, healthcare, and automotive. With a market cap of $1.2 billion (2022), it offers a diverse portfolio, including metal and plastic printers, and advanced software like Oqton for workflow optimization. Its innovations, such as multi-jet printing and selective laser sintering, have set industry standards, making it a cornerstone of 3D printing advancements.
Key Features:
- Invented stereolithography, enabling high-precision parts.
- Offers multi-material printers for metal, plastic, and dental applications.
- Oqton software streamlines 3D printing operations.
- Serves diverse industries, from healthcare to jewelry.
- Extensive patent portfolio, with over 1,000 patents.
- Provides on-demand manufacturing for rapid prototyping.
2. Stratasys Ltd.
Founders: Scott Crump
Founded Year: 1989
Headquarters: Eden Prairie, Minnesota, USA; Rehovot, Israel
Product Categories: FDM and PolyJet 3D printers, software, materials
Company Description:
Stratasys, founded by Scott Crump, who pioneered Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), is a global leader in polymer-based 3D printing. Since 1989, it has served industries like aerospace, automotive, and healthcare, with over 140,000 installations worldwide. With a market cap of $894.61 million (2024), Stratasys excels in both prototyping and production, offering high-performance solutions like the J8-Series and F170 printers. Its focus on innovation and a robust IP portfolio ensures it remains a dominant player in additive manufacturing.
Key Features:
- Pioneered FDM technology for durable, functional parts.
- PolyJet technology enables multi-material, full-color printing.
- Partners with industry giants like Audi and Lockheed Martin.
- Offers cloud-connected software for seamless workflows.
- Extensive material range, including high-performance polymers.
- Supports dental and industrial applications with precision.
3. Materialise NV
Founders: Wilfried Vancraen
Founded Year: 1990
Headquarters: Leuven, Belgium
Product Categories: 3D printing software, manufacturing services, medical solutions
Company Description:
Materialise, established in 1990 by Wilfried Vancraen, is a Belgian innovator specializing in 3D printing software and services. With a focus on healthcare, automotive, and aerospace, its Mimics Innovation Suite is an industry standard for medical 3D printing, enabling anatomical models and implants. Materialise’s global presence and sustainable manufacturing solutions, like local production, reduce carbon footprints. Its software platforms streamline design-to-print processes, making it a trusted partner for complex applications across multiple sectors.
Key Features:
- Mimics Innovation Suite for medical 3D printing.
- Supports SLS, FDM, DMLS, and PolyJet technologies.
- Local production in 30+ countries for sustainability.
- Advanced analytics for sales and production optimization.
- Specializes in healthcare, automotive, and eyewear.
- Offers platforms for rapid prototyping and production.
4. HP Inc.
Founders: William Hewlett, David Packard
Founded Year: 1939 (3D printing division launched in 2014)
Headquarters: Palo Alto, California, USA
Product Categories: Multi Jet Fusion 3D printers, materials, software
Company Description:
HP Inc., a tech giant founded in 1939, entered the 3D printing market in 2014 with its Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology. Headquartered in Palo Alto, HP’s 3D printing solutions focus on scalable, full-color plastic part production, serving industries like automotive and consumer goods. With an annual revenue of $27.24 billion, HP’s AI-backed Digital Production Suite enhances part prediction and quality. Its global reach and innovative materials make it a leader in high-volume additive manufacturing.
Key Features:
- Multi Jet Fusion for fast, scalable printing.
- AI-backed Digital Production Suite for precision.
- Supports CNC and injection molding integration.
- Wide material range, including durable plastics.
- Global distribution across Americas, EMEA, and APAC.
- Focus on high-volume production and customization.
5. Proto Labs, Inc.
Founders: Larry Lukis
Founded Year: 1999
Headquarters: Maple Plain, Minnesota, USA
Product Categories: 3D printing, injection molding, sheet metal fabrication
Company Description:
Proto Labs, founded in 1999 by Larry Lukis, is a digital manufacturing leader specializing in rapid prototyping and on-demand production. With a $3.94 billion revenue (2024), its 3D printing services, using DMLS, SLS, and stereolithography, cater to aerospace, medical, and consumer goods. Proto Labs’ automated quoting system and over 100 printers ensure fast turnaround, making it a go-to for engineers transitioning from prototypes to low-volume production. Its global facilities enhance efficiency and accessibility.
Key Features:
- Rapid prototyping with same-day part production.
- Supports DMLS, SLS, and stereolithography technologies.
- Automated quoting for cost and time efficiency.
- Aerospace-grade cobalt chrome printing capabilities.
- Global manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Specializes in complex, high-precision parts.
6. General Electric Company (GE Additive)
Founders: Thomas Edison (GE, 1892; GE Additive launched in 2016)
Founded Year: 1892
Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Product Categories: Metal 3D printers, materials, consulting services
Company Description:
GE Additive, a subsidiary of General Electric, emerged in 2016 to lead metal 3D printing innovation. Leveraging Concept Laser and Arcam EBM technologies, GE Additive produces high-precision metal parts for aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. Its Direct Metal Laser Melting (DMLM) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM) machines enable complex geometries, such as jet engine components. With workshops and a focus on material development, GE Additive is transforming industrial manufacturing with sustainable, high-performance solutions.
Key Features:
- DMLM and EBM for precision metal printing.
- Concept Laser and Arcam EBM machine brands.
- Used in orthopedic implants and aircraft parts.
- Offers consulting for additive manufacturing integration.
- Advanced material development for durability.
- Global workshops for client training.
7. EOS GmbH
Founders: Hans Langer
Founded Year: 1989
Headquarters: Krailling, Germany
Product Categories: Metal and polymer 3D printers, software, materials
Company Description:
Founded in 1989 by Hans Langer, EOS GmbH is a German leader in industrial 3D printing, specializing in Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) and polymer printing. Serving aerospace, medical, and automotive sectors, EOS delivers high-quality, reliable components with excellent mechanical properties. Its comprehensive solutions include machines, software, and materials, supported by a global network. EOS’s focus on innovation and sustainability positions it as a trusted partner for precision manufacturing worldwide.
Key Features:
- DMLS technology for high-quality metal parts.
- Polymer printing for industrial applications.
- In-situ process monitoring for quality control.
- Wide material portfolio, including metals and polymers.
- Global support for aerospace and medical sectors.
- Sustainable manufacturing with minimal waste.
8. Desktop Metal, Inc.
Founders: Ric Fulop, Jonah Myerberg, Ely Sachs, others
Founded Year: 2015
Headquarters: Burlington, Massachusetts, USA
Product Categories: Metal and polymer 3D printers, software, materials
Company Description:
Desktop Metal, founded in 2015 by Ric Fulop and others, is revolutionizing metal 3D printing with accessible, office-friendly systems. Its binder jetting and Studio System solutions cater to aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods, enabling cost-effective production. With a focus on scalability and material versatility, Desktop Metal acquired ExOne in 2021, expanding its industrial capabilities. Its innovative approach makes high-performance metal printing accessible to smaller enterprises, driving adoption across industries.
Key Features:
- Binder jetting for high-speed metal printing.
- Studio System for office-friendly metal printing.
- Wide material range, including composites.
- Scalable for prototyping and mass production.
- Acquired ExOne for expanded industrial solutions.
- Focus on cost-effective, accessible 3D printing.
9. Formlabs Inc.
Founders: Max Lobovsky, David Cranor, Natan Linder
Founded Year: 2011
Headquarters: Somerville, Massachusetts, USA
Product Categories: SLA and SLS 3D printers, materials, software
Company Description:
Formlabs, founded in 2011 by MIT graduates, democratized 3D printing with affordable, high-precision SLA and SLS printers. Headquartered in Massachusetts, it serves industries like healthcare, education, and engineering, with over 40 million parts printed. Its Form series and Fuse series printers offer professional-grade performance, supported by a wide range of resins and filaments. Formlabs’ intuitive software and focus on accessibility make it a favorite for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Key Features:
- Affordable SLA and SLS printers for precision.
- Over 40 million parts printed globally.
- Wide resin and filament material options.
- Intuitive PreForm software for easy setup.
- Serves healthcare, education, and engineering sectors.
- Scalable from desktop to industrial applications.
10. Ultimaker BV
Founders: Martijn Elserman, Erik de Bruijn, Siert Wijnia
Founded Year: 2011
Headquarters: Utrecht, Netherlands
Product Categories: FDM 3D printers, software, filaments
Company Description:
Ultimaker, founded in 2011, is a Dutch leader in desktop 3D printing, known for its open-source roots and high-quality FDM printers. Serving industries like manufacturing and education, its printers, such as the S5 and S3, offer precision and reliability. Ultimaker’s Cura software, with millions of users, streamlines workflows. Its focus on community-driven innovation and sustainable materials ensures it remains a top choice for professionals seeking cost-effective, versatile solutions.
Key Features:
- Open-source Cura software with global adoption.
- High-precision FDM printers like S5 and S3.
- Wide filament compatibility for versatility.
- Focus on education and manufacturing applications.
- Sustainable materials for eco-friendly printing.
- Community-driven add-ons and upgrades.
11. Nano Dimension Ltd.
Founders: Amit Dror, Simon Fried, others
Founded Year: 2012
Headquarters: Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
Product Categories: 3D printed electronics, AME systems, software
Company Description:
Nano Dimension, founded in 2012, specializes in additively manufactured electronics (AME), revolutionizing circuit board production. Its DragonFly IV printer creates multi-layer circuits in a single step, serving aerospace, defense, and medical industries. With a market cap of $817.48 million (2024), Nano Dimension’s nanotechnology-based inks enable freeform designs, reducing production time. Headquartered in Massachusetts, it drives innovation in electronics manufacturing with scalable, high-precision solutions.
Key Features:
- DragonFly IV for multi-layer circuit printing.
- Nanotechnology-based inks for electronics.
- Supports aerospace, defense, and medical applications.
- One-step production from design to circuit.
- High-precision for complex electronic designs.
- Scalable for rapid prototyping and production.
12. Voxeljet AG
Founders: Ingo Ederer, Rainer Hochsmann
Founded Year: 1999
Headquarters: Friedberg, Germany
Product Categories: Industrial 3D printers, on-demand printing services
Company Description:
Voxeljet, founded in 1999, is a German innovator in industrial 3D printing, specializing in binder jetting for large-scale applications. Its systems produce complex molds and parts for automotive, aerospace, and art industries, with an annual output capacity of 4.7 million liters in Germany. Voxeljet’s focus on high-volume production and material efficiency makes it a leader in industrial casting and prototyping, offering scalable solutions globally.
Key Features:
- Binder jetting for large-scale industrial parts.
- High-volume output for molds and castings.
- Serves automotive, aerospace, and art sectors.
- On-demand printing for rapid prototyping.
- Material-efficient for cost-effective production.
- Global service network for accessibility.
13. The ExOne Company (Desktop Metal Inc.)
Founders: Dan O’Connell
Founded Year: 2005 (acquired by Desktop Metal in 2021)
Headquarters: North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, USA
Product Categories: Binder jet 3D printers, materials, services
Company Description:
ExOne, founded in 2005 and acquired by Desktop Metal in 2021, is a global leader in binder jetting 3D printing for industrial applications. Specializing in metal and sand printing, ExOne serves aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors, with systems cited in over 95 peer-reviewed journals. Its innovative approach to high-speed, large-scale production ensures cost efficiency and precision, making it a vital player in additive manufacturing.
Key Features:
- Binder jetting for metal and sand printing.
- High-speed systems for industrial production.
- Serves aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors.
- Over 95 peer-reviewed journal citations.
- Scalable for large-scale manufacturing.
- Integrated with Desktop Metal’s portfolio.
14. Optomec, Inc.
Founders: Dave Keicher, Tom Swann
Founded Year: 1997
Headquarters: Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Product Categories: 3D printed electronics, metal printers, software
Company Description:
Optomec, founded in 1997, is a pioneer in 3D printed electronics and metal additive manufacturing. Its Laser Engineered Net Shaping (LENS) and Huffman systems enable the production and repair of turbine components and electronics for aerospace and defense. With over $30 million invested in R&D, Optomec’s solutions reduce lifecycle costs and enhance part performance, serving over 250 global customers with innovative, high-precision technology.
Key Features:
- LENS systems for metal component production.
- Huffman systems for turbine repair.
- 3D printed electronics for aerospace applications.
- Over 250 global customers.
- Reduces lifecycle costs for long-term assets.
- High-precision for complex geometries.
15. Renishaw Plc
Founders: David McMurtry, John Deer
Founded Year: 1973
Headquarters: Wotton-under-Edge, United Kingdom
Product Categories: Metal 3D printers, precision engineering solutions
Company Description:
Renishaw, founded in 1973, is a UK-based leader in precision engineering and metal 3D printing. Its laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) technology produces complex, high-quality metal parts for aerospace, medical, and automotive industries. Known for accuracy and reliability, Renishaw’s printers enable intricate geometries, supported by its expertise in metrology and additive manufacturing. Its global presence and focus on innovation make it a trusted name in industrial 3D printing.
Key Features:
- LPBF technology for high-precision metal parts.
- Serves aerospace, medical, and automotive sectors.
- Expertise in metrology for quality assurance.
- Reliable for complex geometries.
- Global support and engineering services.
- Focus on sustainable manufacturing.
16. Bright Laser Technologies (BLT)
Founders: Xue Lei, others
Founded Year: 2011
Headquarters: Xi’an, China
Product Categories: Metal 3D printers, materials, software
Company Description:
Bright Laser Technologies (BLT), founded in 2011, is China’s leading metal 3D printing company, with a market cap of $18.3 billion (2025). Headquartered in Xi’an, BLT’s advanced systems and materials serve aerospace, medical, and energy sectors. Backed by university expertise, BLT invests heavily in R&D, developing new printing techniques and software to enhance precision and scalability, positioning it as a global leader in metal additive manufacturing.
Key Features:
- Market cap leader at $18.3 billion (2025).
- Advanced metal 3D printers for industrial use.
- Serves aerospace, medical, and energy sectors.
- Heavy R&D investment for innovation.
- Scalable systems for mass production.
- High-precision printing for complex parts.
17. Farsoon Technologies
Founders: Xu Xiaoshu
Founded Year: 2009
Headquarters: Changsha, China
Product Categories: Metal and polymer 3D printers, materials, software
Company Description:
Farsoon Technologies, founded in 2009 by Xu Xiaoshu, is a Chinese powerhouse in 3D printing, with a market cap of $16.8 billion (2025). Specializing in metal and polymer printers, Farsoon serves aerospace, automotive, and medical industries with high-speed, cost-effective systems. Its open-platform approach allows material flexibility, driving innovation. Farsoon’s global reach and focus on industrial applications make it a key player in additive manufacturing’s expansion in Asia.
Key Features:
- Market cap of $16.8 billion (2025).
- Open-platform for material flexibility.
- High-speed metal and polymer printers.
- Serves aerospace, automotive, and medical sectors.
- Cost-effective for industrial-scale production.
- Global expansion in Asia and beyond.
18. MakerBot Industries
Founders: Bre Pettis, Adam Mayer, Zach “Hoeken” Smith
Founded Year: 2009
Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA
Product Categories: Desktop 3D printers, filaments, software
Company Description:
MakerBot, founded in 2009 and acquired by Stratasys in 2013, is a leader in desktop 3D printing. Known for its Replicator+ series, MakerBot serves education, design, and small-scale manufacturing with user-friendly, high-speed printers. Its open-source roots and robust community support foster innovation, while its focus on safety and precision makes it ideal for professionals and hobbyists. MakerBot’s printers are exported to over 100 countries, driving accessibility in 3D printing.
Key Features:
- Replicator+ for fast, safe desktop printing.
- Open-source roots for community innovation.
- Serves education and small-scale manufacturing.
- High-speed and precise printing capabilities.
- Exports to over 100 countries.
- User-friendly for beginners and professionals.
19. Velo3D, Inc.
Founders: Benny Buller
Founded Year: 2014
Headquarters: Campbell, California, USA
Product Categories: Metal 3D printers, software, materials
Company Description:
Velo3D, founded in 2014 by Benny Buller, is a California-based innovator in metal 3D printing. Its SupportFree technology eliminates complex support structures, enabling intricate geometries for aerospace and energy applications. With in-situ process monitoring, Velo3D ensures high accuracy and repeatability. Its Sapphire printers are used by industry leaders like SpaceX, showcasing its impact on cutting-edge manufacturing. Velo3D’s focus on design freedom and quality control positions it as a game-changer in additive manufacturing.
Key Features:
- SupportFree technology for complex geometries.
- In-situ monitoring for quality assurance.
- Sapphire printers used by SpaceX.
- Serves aerospace and energy sectors.
- High accuracy and repeatability.
- Reduces post-processing requirements.
20. BigRep GmbH
Founders: René Gurka, Stephan Beyer
Founded Year: 2014
Headquarters: Berlin, Germany
Product Categories: Large-format 3D printers, software, materials
Company Description:
BigRep, founded in 2014, is a German manufacturer of large-scale 3D printers for industrial applications. Its 1m³ printers, like the BigRep ONE, produce end-use parts and tooling for automotive, aerospace, and art sectors. With FLOW, CONNECT, and BLADE software, BigRep ensures precise control and scalability. Its focus on rapid prototyping and sustainable materials makes it a leader in large-format additive manufacturing, serving global clients in e-mobility and research.
Key Features:
- Large-format printers with 1m³ build volume.
- FLOW, CONNECT, and BLADE software for precision.
- Serves automotive, aerospace, and art industries.
- Rapid prototyping and production tooling.
- Sustainable materials for eco-friendly printing.
- Global support for industrial clients.
This comprehensive overview of the top 20 3D printing companies in 2025 highlights their pivotal roles in advancing additive manufacturing. From pioneers like 3D Systems to emerging giants like Bright Laser Technologies, these companies are driving innovation, sustainability, and scalability across industries. For businesses and enthusiasts alike, understanding their offerings can unlock new possibilities in design and production.
