Time to upgrade? Finding the perfect successor to the UltiMaker 2+ Connect

For many educators, makers, and small businesses, the UltiMaker 2+ Connect has been a beloved workhorse. With its reliable single extrusion, straightforward operation, and robust design, it helped bring countless ideas to life. However, as the 3D printing industry evolves, older models inevitably step aside to make way for the next generation of technology.

With the UltiMaker 2+ Connect officially discontinued, you might be wondering: What comes next?

Whether you're looking for a direct, modernised replacement or hoping to step up your manufacturing capabilities with an advanced 3D printer, UltiMaker has two brilliant options to keep your workflow running smoothly.

The modern replacement: MakerBot Sketch Sprint

If you loved the straightforward, single-extrusion nature of the 2+ Connect but crave modern speed and safety, the MakerBot Sketch Sprint is your ideal replacement. Billed as UltiMaker's fastest PLA 3D printer, the Sketch Sprint pushes the boundaries of what a desktop 3D printer can achieve without sacrificing print quality. It’s particularly well-suited for classrooms, studios, and fast-paced environments where waiting hours for a prototype simply isn't an option.

Why it's a brilliant upgrade

• Exceptional speed: Reaching print speeds of up to 300 mm/s, you'll see your output dramatically increase compared to older models.
• Improved safety: Unlike the open-front design of the older 2+ series, the Sketch Sprint features a fully enclosed structure with active HEPA and carbon filtration, plus a PIN code lock, making it incredibly safe for shared spaces and classrooms.
• Smart features: It includes automatic 25-point mesh levelling, an onboard camera for remote monitoring, and seamless integration with UltiMaker Cura and Digital Factory.
• Build volume: A generous 220 x 220 x 220 mm build space, perfectly matching the footprint needs of most standard projects.

The professional upgrade: UltiMaker S5

Perhaps your needs have grown beyond single-extrusion PLA prints. If you require industrial-grade performance, complex geometries, or advanced engineering materials, then stepping up to the UltiMaker S5 is the most logical next step. The S5 isn't just a replacement; it's a massive expansion of your 3D printing ambitions. This 3D printer is designed to handle demanding real-world applications, from manufacturing aids to end-use parts.

Why it's a massive leap forward

• Dual extrusion: Unlike the single-extrusion 2+ Connect, the S5 features composite-ready dual extrusion. This allows you to 3D print with water-soluble support material (PVA) for complex geometries, or 3D print in two colours simultaneously.
• Larger build volume: With a 330 x 240 x 300 mm build chamber, you can print much larger parts or batch-produce multiple smaller items in a single run.
• Expanded material choice: The S5 works with over 280 materials. Whether you need advanced engineering polymers, flexible TPU, glass/carbon fibre composites, or even stainless steel, the S5 is ready.
• Improved interface: An intuitive 4.7-inch colour touchscreen makes operating your 3D printer incredibly user-friendly, while advanced active levelling ensures a perfect first layer every time.

Which 3D printer should you choose?

The transition away from the UltiMaker 2+ Connect is the perfect excuse to evaluate what you actually need from your 3D printer today. If your goal is to print PLA models faster, safer, and with zero fuss, particularly in an educational or design studio setting, the MakerBot Sketch Sprint is a great modernised replacement.

However, if you want to expand your capabilities, print with industrial composites, and tackle complex geometries with dual extrusion, the UltiMaker S5 will take your workshop's output to a professional level.

Model comparison

Browse 3D printers in our store

We offer a wide range of 3D printers. Find out more about the MakerBot Sketch Sprint and UltiMaker S5 below.

UltiMaker Sketch Sprint

UltiMaker S5