What to Look for When Buying a Used Markforged
Markforged printers range from compact desktop composite systems to full metal additive lines. Build quality is high across the range, but used units require specific inspection. Here is what to evaluate.
Inspect the print bed and leveling system. A flat, properly leveled bed is essential for first-layer adhesion and dimensional accuracy. Check the bed surface for gouges, warping, or excessive wear. Verify that automatic bed leveling calibrates correctly. On Metal X systems, inspect the build plate for contamination or damage.
Evaluate the print head and fiber feed mechanism. On continuous fiber models, the fiber cutting and routing mechanism is a critical wear component. Test both the Onyx extrusion path and the continuous fiber path to confirm clean, consistent laydown. Inspect the nozzle for clogs or wear. On Metal X systems, verify that the bound-metal extrusion head produces consistent bead geometry.
Check the software subscription and connectivity. Markforged printers operate through the Eiger cloud platform for slicing, print management, and fleet monitoring. Confirm Eiger connectivity and that firmware is current. Verify which Eiger subscription tier transfers with the hardware, as some features require active licensing.
On Metal X systems, evaluate the full three-stage workflow. The Metal X ecosystem includes a printer, wash station, and sinter oven. All three must function properly. Inspect the wash station solvent condition and pump operation. Verify the sinter oven reaches target temperatures accurately, as temperature uniformity affects final part density.
Markforged Composite Printers
X-Series (Industrial Continuous Fiber)
The X7 is Markforged's flagship industrial composite printer with a 330 x 270 x 200 mm build volume, laser-based in-process inspection, and continuous fiber reinforcement. The X5 offers the same build volume with fiberglass and HSHT fiberglass reinforcement. The X3 provides industrial-grade Onyx printing without continuous fiber. All X-series printers feature a heated build chamber and enterprise fleet management through Eiger.
Mark Two (Desktop Continuous Fiber)
The Mark Two is Markforged's most widely deployed printer, bringing continuous fiber reinforcement to a desktop form factor (320 x 132 x 154 mm build volume). It prints Onyx and nylon with optional continuous carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, or HSHT fiberglass reinforcement. The Mark Two remains the entry point for shops evaluating continuous fiber additive manufacturing.
Onyx Series (Desktop Chopped Fiber)
The Onyx Pro prints Onyx and nylon with optional fiberglass reinforcement. The Onyx One is a dedicated Onyx-only printer for strong, dimensionally stable parts. Both share the Mark Two's desktop footprint and connect through Eiger.
Markforged Metal & Large-Format Systems
Metal X (Bound-Metal Deposition)
The Metal X uses bound-metal deposition to produce fully dense metal parts. The printer extrudes metal powder bound in a wax and polymer matrix, producing a "green" part that is processed through a wash station (to remove binder) and sinter oven (to fuse metal powder). Supported materials include 17-4PH stainless steel, H13 tool steel, A2 tool steel, D2 tool steel, Inconel 625, and copper.
FX20 and FX10 (Large-Format Production)
The FX20 is Markforged's largest composite printer, built for production-scale continuous fiber parts with a 525 x 400 x 400 mm build volume and support for high-temperature materials including ULTEM 9085 and carbon fiber PEKK. The FX10 brings large-format Onyx and continuous fiber printing at a more accessible level. Both target aerospace, defense, and automotive production applications.
How to Sell Your Used Markforged
Used Markforged printers hold value well thanks to the brand's strong reputation in aerospace and defense, proprietary continuous fiber technology, and consistent demand for pre-owned units. The X7, Metal X, and FX20 command the strongest resale interest.
Resell CNC buys used Markforged printers and systems, every model, nationwide.
- Contact us at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com.
- Free appraisal within 24 hours, no obligation.
- Accept the offer and we handle packaging, transport, and logistics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Used Markforged Printers
Are used Markforged printers reliable?
Yes. Markforged printers are designed for industrial environments with quality hardware throughout. The X-series and FX-series feature enclosed, temperature-controlled build chambers and robust motion systems. Regular maintenance (nozzle replacement, bed resurfacing, firmware updates) keeps used units performing at factory specifications.
What software does Markforged use?
All Markforged printers use Eiger, a cloud-based platform for slicing, print preparation, fleet management, and material tracking. Eiger runs in a web browser with no local software installation required. Some advanced features may require specific subscription tiers, so confirm the subscription status when purchasing a used unit.
What should I inspect before buying a used Markforged?
Focus on print bed condition, print head and nozzle wear, fiber feed mechanism (on CFR-capable models), Eiger connectivity, and firmware version. On Metal X systems, inspect all three stages: printer, wash station, and sinter oven. Request sample prints to verify accuracy and surface finish.
What Markforged models hold their value best?
The X7 industrial composite printer, Metal X metal system, and FX20 large-format platform maintain the strongest resale values. The Mark Two also holds value well as the most popular continuous fiber printer. Call (844) 478-8181 for current valuations.
Is Markforged the same as a traditional CNC machine?
No. Markforged produces additive manufacturing systems (industrial 3D printers) rather than subtractive CNC machines. However, Markforged printers are widely used in CNC machine shops for tooling, fixtures, jigs, and functional prototypes that support machining operations. Many shops run Markforged alongside their CNC equipment as complementary technology.
What materials can Markforged printers use?
Composite printers use Onyx (chopped carbon fiber nylon), nylon, and optional continuous fiber reinforcement with carbon fiber, fiberglass, Kevlar, or HSHT fiberglass. The FX20 adds ULTEM 9085 and carbon fiber PEKK. Metal X systems process 17-4PH stainless steel, H13, A2, D2 tool steels, Inconel 625, and copper.
How do I sell my used Markforged?
Contact Resell CNC at (844) 478-8181 or sales@resellcnc.com. We buy every Markforged model, from desktop Onyx printers to full Metal X systems and FX20 platforms. Free appraisal within 24 hours.