![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/1c52c6f8c2d893fe.png\")
Hatchbox is a filament brand based in the USA. It offers a large variety of filaments, ranging from everyday PLA and ABS to exotic blends.<\/p>\n
Boasting high-quality materials, Hatchbox advertises a plus or minus 0.03-mm precision in all of its filaments (that\u2019s right \u2013 all of them).<\/p>\n
Hatchbox ABS is marketed as tough, durable, thermally resistant, and having the \u201chighest dimensional accuracy\u201d, offering a glossy finish and the ability to be used for functional production models.<\/p>\n
Hatchbox ABS is available in a large variety of colors and in both 1.75-mm and 3-mm formats. For our review, we chose a spool of True Orange.<\/p>\n
Verdict<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/852917943087bd02.png\")
Our first successful Benchy. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nPrinting with this filament offered the typical ABS experience \u2013 that is to say, it was slightly troublesome. This filament is extremely sensitive to changes in settings, prone to warping, and is generally a pain to begin printing with. That said, when it does work, the models come out quite nicely and have a good finish with well-defined detail.<\/p>\n
We would recommend this filament to someone willing to spend the time to tune their settings for optimal results, but if you\u2019re looking for a filament you can \u201cjust use\u201d, then this is definitely not the material or you.<\/p>\n
The Hatchbox ABS came well packaged in a recyclable cardboard box, with a resealable bag and desiccant pouch for safe storage between uses. We tested our spool using an\u00a0Original Prusa i3 MK3S<\/a>\u00a0in stock configuration. The color of our prints was uniform and vibrant, and the finish was very glossy and smooth.<\/p>\nTest #1: 3DBenchy<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/54f5ad84ff5be3d8.png\")
Our close-up reveals even, smooth layers with a glossy finish. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nOur first test, as usual, was the 3DBenchy. After a number of failed attempts, we were able to get a finished Benchy. The first completed Benchy looked disastrous, with a finish only fit for horror films. With a single change to our cooling settings, we were able to get a Benchy that actually looked halfway decent.<\/p>\n
Our original issue was bed adhesion, something that plagued us throughout our entire testing process. We tried a number of things with no success, first glue stick, then \u201cABS juice\u201d (ABS in an acetone solvent). Our model kept warping from the bed and running into the extruder, breaking the model free from the print bed. To solve this, we found that we had to enclose the MK3S to avoid warping. We still had a slight bit of warping after that, but it was reduced to the point where we could get a successful print. This was the only print for which we had to use an enclosure during our testing.<\/p>\n
Our next issue was print cooling. Using a standard ABS profile with no cooling wasn\u2019t working, so we enabled the fan at 25% speed. This single change had a massive effect on the final surface finish, turning what was a monstrosity into an acceptable print.<\/p>\n
A close-up shot of the nicer Benchy reveals uniform layers with excellent adhesion.<\/p>\n
Test #2: Excavator<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/b0c82e06113c5c29.png\")
Despite the imperfections, this model turned out rather nicely. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nOur second test was an\u00a0Excavator<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0MakerBot<\/a>.<\/p>\nSimilarly to the Benchy, we had several failed attempts to print this due to problems with bed adhesion and warping.<\/p>\n
Our successful print used both a solution of ABS goop and a raft for proper bed adhesion. Even so, there was some warping and the arm delaminated slightly, resulting in the rather obvious imperfection in the center.<\/p>\n
Issues aside, the final model is very strong and durable, even where the imperfection marred the surface finish. The raft came free of the part easily after we removed it from the print bed. All of the print-in-place joints actuate very cleanly without any rough patches or hitching. The majority of the model has a very clean, even surface with a nice, glossy finish.<\/p>\n
Test #3: Reversing Spiral Cone<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/1e4ee4f4b2c31f88.png\")
This print was by far the easiest we’ve done in this ABS. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nOur third test print was a\u00a0Reversing Spiral Cone<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Joey Muirhead<\/a>. Unlike the first two prints, this model was surprisingly devoid of issues. We attribute this to the simple, circular base of the print, and the additional cooling that we used after the initial disaster with the Benchy.<\/p>\nAll of the details in this print turned out very nicely, with only a few rough patches under the overhangs. We also experienced a little bit of stringing towards the top of the model, but it is almost unnoticeable.<\/p>\n
Final Thoughts<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/c7c1794a2ba236b5.png\")
A single change in settings renders huge improvements in quality. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nOverall, this filament is decent and provides good results after a bit of tuning. We found that objects with more complex bases are difficult to print, as this material is prone to warping and delaminating from the print bed. However, implementing additional adhesives such as ABS juice and a raft seem to clear up this issue. Also, we found that this ABS requires a small amount of cooling to print nicely.<\/p>\n
So, if you are willing to take the time to dial in your printer, this filament is certainly capable of giving good results. That said, this is an additional hassle that many users may want to avoid.<\/p>\n
All in all, Hatchbox ABS is a good filament for the price, but it\u2019s certainly not for everyone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\n\n\n\nSpecs & Settings<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/7e29cd3ce0d9de2f.png\")
Printer Spaghetti – An unfortunate consequence of warping and improper adhesion. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nWe tested our Hatchbox ABS on an Original Prusa i3 MK3S in stock configuration with PrusaSlicer.<\/p>\n
We used the \u201c0.15mm Quality MK3\u201d and \u201cGeneric ABS\u201d profiles, with the following changes:<\/p>\n
\n- Extruder Tempurature: 225 \u00b0C<\/li>\n
- Bed Tempurature: 100 \u00b0C<\/li>\n
- Fan Speed: 25% (Fan always on, disable until 3rd layer)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
The manufacturer\u2019s recommended settings are as follows:<\/p>\n
\n- Extruder Tempurature: 210\u2013240 \u00b0C<\/li>\n
- Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm or 3 mm (\u00b10.03 mm)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How We Review<\/h3>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/img.facfox.com\/imgs\/2022\/06\/06\/fc7483096cc2af5d.png\")
With proper tuning, the results can be stunning. Source: Emmett Grames \/ All3DP<\/figcaption><\/figure>\nFor those curious about how we got to our conclusion, we review filaments using the following guidelines:<\/p>\n
Each and every spool is brand-new and unopened.<\/p>\n
Our first print is always a 3DBenchy. We use this to check for any inconsistencies\u00a0in quality, color, and finish. After that, we print a few other models, the results of which we present to you. We\u00a0slice the model using the latest version of\u00a0PrusaSlicer<\/a>. We do not post-process the prints in any manner; we simply remove them from the bed and cut off any support materials.<\/p>\nWe start with\u00a0the manufacturer\u2019s recommended settings (where available). When the manufacturer offers a range of values, we go for the arithmetic mean. Therefore,\u00a0if we are given a printing temperature range of 200\u2013220 \u00baC, we would print at 210 \u00baC (unless noted otherwise).<\/p>\n
For this review, we used an Original Prusa i3 MK3S in stock configuration. Statements regarding print quality are based on the printer\u2019s ability and reputation to successfully print a wide variety of other filaments and models.<\/p>\n
We would like to mention that every spool of filament can be slightly different, and filaments often vary greatly even within a small range. Simply fiddling with a single setting like\u00a0retraction<\/a>\u00a0can have huge effects in print quality. This can make the difference between a\u00a0disastrous\u00a0fail and a wondrous success.<\/p>\nSo, if you own a spool of this filament, we invite you to contribute in the comments below! Did you manage to get your prints to turn out? Did you have an interesting or strange experience? Let us know \u2013 we\u2019d love to hear from you!<\/p>\n
Printing with this filament offered the typical ABS experience \u2013 that is to say, it was slightly troublesome. This filament is extremely sensitive to changes in settings, prone to warping, and is generally a pain to begin printing with. That said, when it does work, the models come out quite nicely and have a good finish with well-defined detail.<\/p>\n
We would recommend this filament to someone willing to spend the time to tune their settings for optimal results, but if you\u2019re looking for a filament you can \u201cjust use\u201d, then this is definitely not the material or you.<\/p>\n
The Hatchbox ABS came well packaged in a recyclable cardboard box, with a resealable bag and desiccant pouch for safe storage between uses. We tested our spool using an\u00a0Original Prusa i3 MK3S<\/a>\u00a0in stock configuration. The color of our prints was uniform and vibrant, and the finish was very glossy and smooth.<\/p>\n Our first test, as usual, was the 3DBenchy. After a number of failed attempts, we were able to get a finished Benchy. The first completed Benchy looked disastrous, with a finish only fit for horror films. With a single change to our cooling settings, we were able to get a Benchy that actually looked halfway decent.<\/p>\n Our original issue was bed adhesion, something that plagued us throughout our entire testing process. We tried a number of things with no success, first glue stick, then \u201cABS juice\u201d (ABS in an acetone solvent). Our model kept warping from the bed and running into the extruder, breaking the model free from the print bed. To solve this, we found that we had to enclose the MK3S to avoid warping. We still had a slight bit of warping after that, but it was reduced to the point where we could get a successful print. This was the only print for which we had to use an enclosure during our testing.<\/p>\n Our next issue was print cooling. Using a standard ABS profile with no cooling wasn\u2019t working, so we enabled the fan at 25% speed. This single change had a massive effect on the final surface finish, turning what was a monstrosity into an acceptable print.<\/p>\n A close-up shot of the nicer Benchy reveals uniform layers with excellent adhesion.<\/p>\n Our second test was an\u00a0Excavator<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0MakerBot<\/a>.<\/p>\n Similarly to the Benchy, we had several failed attempts to print this due to problems with bed adhesion and warping.<\/p>\n Our successful print used both a solution of ABS goop and a raft for proper bed adhesion. Even so, there was some warping and the arm delaminated slightly, resulting in the rather obvious imperfection in the center.<\/p>\n Issues aside, the final model is very strong and durable, even where the imperfection marred the surface finish. The raft came free of the part easily after we removed it from the print bed. All of the print-in-place joints actuate very cleanly without any rough patches or hitching. The majority of the model has a very clean, even surface with a nice, glossy finish.<\/p>\n Our third test print was a\u00a0Reversing Spiral Cone<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Joey Muirhead<\/a>. Unlike the first two prints, this model was surprisingly devoid of issues. We attribute this to the simple, circular base of the print, and the additional cooling that we used after the initial disaster with the Benchy.<\/p>\n All of the details in this print turned out very nicely, with only a few rough patches under the overhangs. We also experienced a little bit of stringing towards the top of the model, but it is almost unnoticeable.<\/p>\n Overall, this filament is decent and provides good results after a bit of tuning. We found that objects with more complex bases are difficult to print, as this material is prone to warping and delaminating from the print bed. However, implementing additional adhesives such as ABS juice and a raft seem to clear up this issue. Also, we found that this ABS requires a small amount of cooling to print nicely.<\/p>\n So, if you are willing to take the time to dial in your printer, this filament is certainly capable of giving good results. That said, this is an additional hassle that many users may want to avoid.<\/p>\n All in all, Hatchbox ABS is a good filament for the price, but it\u2019s certainly not for everyone.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n We tested our Hatchbox ABS on an Original Prusa i3 MK3S in stock configuration with PrusaSlicer.<\/p>\n We used the \u201c0.15mm Quality MK3\u201d and \u201cGeneric ABS\u201d profiles, with the following changes:<\/p>\n The manufacturer\u2019s recommended settings are as follows:<\/p>\n For those curious about how we got to our conclusion, we review filaments using the following guidelines:<\/p>\n Each and every spool is brand-new and unopened.<\/p>\n Our first print is always a 3DBenchy. We use this to check for any inconsistencies\u00a0in quality, color, and finish. After that, we print a few other models, the results of which we present to you. We\u00a0slice the model using the latest version of\u00a0PrusaSlicer<\/a>. We do not post-process the prints in any manner; we simply remove them from the bed and cut off any support materials.<\/p>\n We start with\u00a0the manufacturer\u2019s recommended settings (where available). When the manufacturer offers a range of values, we go for the arithmetic mean. Therefore,\u00a0if we are given a printing temperature range of 200\u2013220 \u00baC, we would print at 210 \u00baC (unless noted otherwise).<\/p>\n For this review, we used an Original Prusa i3 MK3S in stock configuration. Statements regarding print quality are based on the printer\u2019s ability and reputation to successfully print a wide variety of other filaments and models.<\/p>\n We would like to mention that every spool of filament can be slightly different, and filaments often vary greatly even within a small range. Simply fiddling with a single setting like\u00a0retraction<\/a>\u00a0can have huge effects in print quality. This can make the difference between a\u00a0disastrous\u00a0fail and a wondrous success.<\/p>\n So, if you own a spool of this filament, we invite you to contribute in the comments below! Did you manage to get your prints to turn out? Did you have an interesting or strange experience? Let us know \u2013 we\u2019d love to hear from you!<\/p>\nTest #1: 3DBenchy<\/h3>\n
Test #2: Excavator<\/h3>\n
Test #3: Reversing Spiral Cone<\/h3>\n
Final Thoughts<\/h3>\n
Specs & Settings<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\n
How We Review<\/h3>\n