In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best 3D printing stocks to buy right now.
When 3D printing first became mainstream, it was rumored that the technology could bring about the next industrial revolution. The technology is slowly seeping into every industry. Large energy companies now use 3D printing to develop engineering designs, replacement parts, and prototypes. Only recently, Reuters reported the launch of a 3D-printed neighborhood and hotel in Texas, United States. To this, experts are wondering whether artificial intelligence and 3D printing technology can fix the global housing crisis.
Artificial Intelligence & 3D Printing: A Groundbreaking Intervention
According to a report by Forbes, the 3D printing industry was valued at $14.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $58 billion by 2032. The key challenge hindering the growth of 3D printing is its cost inefficiency, especially for metal 3D printing. However, a combination of artificial intelligence and 3D printing may ramp up the use of 3D printing globally. There are a few companies tirelessly working on bridging the gaps in 3D printing using artificial intelligence. Let’s take a look at what they offer.
Printipal.io is one such example. The company uses artificial intelligence to monitor the printing process so humans do not have to do it themselves. The technology identifies errors and sits through the entire printing process while workers sit back and relax. Some of its features include defect detection, health checks, automation, and remote management. The tool helps minimize waste and improves efficiency significantly.
On the other hand, 1000 Kelvin, a developer of AI solutions for 3D printing, launched AMAIZE in the last quarter of 2023. AMAIZE is a fully AI-powered 3D printing software that is designed to automate the correction of issues and improve accuracy, eliminating the need for multiple revisions and element simulations. The CEO of 1000 Kelvin stresses the need for sustainable solutions to 3D printing. Improving the efficiency of the 3D printing industry can thoroughly optimize the global manufacturing and production sector.
Cathie Wood’s ARK offers a 3D printing ETF but this ETF hasn’t returned anything over the last 5 years and underperformed the market by a large margin. It also gained close to 10% over the last 12 months but still underperformed the market by double digits. You can check out 10 Worst Cathie Wood Stocks to Buy here. 3D stocks as a group haven’t been performing well but some of these stocks may outperform the rest and keep up with the rest of the market.
Now that we have studied the 3D printing industry’s outlook and how the inclusion of AI can improve efficacy, let’s take a look at some pioneers of 3D printing technology.
An engineer operating a 3D printing machine to create a organ or cell-based transplant for a autoimmune disease.
Our Methodology
To come up with the 10 best 3D printing stocks to buy right now, we went over multiple ETFs, our own rankings, and similar rankings on the internet. We then examined the hedge fund sentiment of each stock and picked the most popular ones. Our list is in ascending order of the number of hedge fund holders, as of Q2 2024.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 275% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 150 percentage points (see more details here).
10 Best 3D Printing Stocks To Buy Right Now
10. Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 13
Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) ranks 10th on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. The company owns a large portfolio of 3D printers and 3D printing-related products such as materials, software 3D printed parts, and customer service. The company serves the aerospace, automotive, consumer, dental, education, and medical industries, to name a few.
Some of its major customers include Microsoft, NASA, Honda, Radford, Siemens, and Toyota, among others. The company has extensive partnerships with these firms. For example, Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) is partnered with SSTEF by Aegis Aerospace, under NASA’s Tipping Point program, to test 3D printed material performance on the Moon. Previously in 2023, the company began working on improving medical imaging with Siemens Healthineers.
Recently, in September, Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) attempted to revolutionize the fashion industry by introducing a new era of precision and efficiency in 3D printing. TechStyle, the company’s new fabric alignment station, is an innovative addition to its 3D fashion technology. The solution prints with high accuracy and allows integration between cutting, embossing, silk printing, and embroidery.
Overall, Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) is leading the 3D printing revolution with its strategic partnerships and advanced mechanisms. The company has massive growth potential as it targets high-growth markets. Analysts are bullish on the stock and their median price target of $11 represents an upside of 48%.
9. 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 15
3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) is an engineering company that engineers, manufactures, and sells 3D printers, 3D printing materials, and 3D printed parts. The company also specializes in the provision of application engineering services and on-demand manufacturing services.
The company serves a range of industries namely the aerospace, defense, automotive, medical, bioprinting, jewelry, semiconductor, and dental industries, to name a few. Some of 3D Systems’ (NYSE:DDD) customers include Airbus, Lucid, Jabil, MIT, United Therapeutics, ETH Zurich, and Imperial College London.
The company is garnering acknowledgment from across the globe. In September, 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) announced that the company received FDA clearance for its monolithic jetted denture solution, expanded its orthopedic portfolio, announced the commercialization of its Oqton Manufacturing OS, and increased investment in its high precision casting portfolio.
In the second quarter of 2024, the company logged $113.3 million in revenue, up by 10.1% year-over-year, a testament to its upward growth trajectory. Overall, 3D Systems Corporation (NYSE:DDD) has strong fundamentals and a solid footing in 3D printing, especially in the industrial and healthcare sectors.
8. FARO Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:FARO)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 20
FARO Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:FARO) ranks eighth on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. The company makes software and computer-aided software for high-precision 3D measurement and imaging of parts and complex structures.
The company produces hardware and software products that are designed to function with the tools and processes customers are already using. Its high-precision 3D measurement technologies help manufacturers remove cost errors and construct projects. As an emerging leader in 3D measurement, FARO Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:FARO) boasts hundreds of patents to its name in countries from across the globe.
FARO Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:FARO) is constantly evolving. On October 15, the company released new capabilities for its Faro Focus 3D Laser Scanner portfolio. The latest addition to the lineup is the Focus Premium Max, increasing the portfolio’s scanning range to 400 meters and reducing scanning time by 50%. Adding to that, last week, the company launched a new series of portable coordinate measurement machines that offer a 15% increase in accuracy relative to previous versions.
As you can see from the graph above FARO’s stock price came down from $80+ to $18 over the last 3 years. However, as the stock price declined more and more hedge funds found the stock attractive and the number of hedge funds with bullish FARO positions more than doubled over the last 3 years. There have also been multiple insider purchases in the stock in low teens and more recently at around $17 over the past year and half (see details here). Insider purchases coincided with the bottom in FARO shares.
Overall, FARO Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:FARO) has sustained its legacy and is working on becoming a leader in 4D digital reality solutions across hardware, software, and services solutions. The company has 40 years of industrial expertise under its belt to support its vision.
7. Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE:PRLB)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22
Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE:PRLB) is a leading 3D printing company that provides rapid manufacturing of low-volume 3D-printed custom parts for prototyping and short-term production. The company has been providing additive manufacturing services for the past 25 years and is home to more than 120 3D printers.
The company provides on-demand 3D printing for rapid prototyping. Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE:PRLB) is known for its notoriously fast production, which could be as fast as one day. The emerging leader in 3D printing allows people to use its online 3D printing service and choose from its six printing technologies.
The company is expanding its ecosystem by partnering with big names from across the globe. Harley Davidson partnered with Protolabs to manufacture high-quality parts for their vehicles. Similarly, NASA partnered with the 3D printing company to develop a special part. The part was delivered in only 36 hours and the design was presented at the PowerSource Global Summit. Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE:PRLB) has leveraged similar partnerships with Nokia, Aura, PepsiCo, and Whoop Inc.
Proto Labs, Inc. (NYSE:PRLB) is one of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now according to hedge funds and we believe that’s because of its large scale of operations and network. The company prints more than 250,000 parts each month and has served over 50,000 developers till now. 22 hedge funds were bullish on PRLB at the close of Q2 2024, according to the Insider Monkey database.
6. PTC Inc. (NASDAQ:PTC)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 39
PTC Inc. (NASDAQ:PTC) ranks sixth on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. The application software company operates across two major segments, computer-aided design and lifecycle management. Under its CAD segment, the company provides extensive additive manufacturing services.
The company allows users to optimize, ideate, validate, and print their designs all under the same roof. Creo, PTC’s (NASDAQ:PTC), fully integrated computer-aided design (CAD) solution, helps users develop innovative designs and print them using a wide range of available printers. The all-in-one platform is time-efficient and flexible.
In the fiscal third quarter of 2024, PTC Inc. (NASDAQ:PTC) logged revenue worth $519 million and expects to report revenue between $2.27 billion and $2.32 billion for the fiscal year 2024. The company also expects to spend $15 million in capital expenditures during the fiscal year 2024, bringing free cash flow to $725 million.
PTC Inc. (NASDAQ:PTC) is transforming the industrial and manufacturing industry using its pioneering additive technologies. The company has more than 30,000 customers globally, evidence of its growing customer base and vast network.
5. HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 41
HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) is one of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. The information technology company develops personal computers, printers, and related supplies, and provides 3D printing services.
The company’s propriety 3D printing technology sets it apart from its competitors. HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) provides end-to-end coverage to its customers looking to use the technology. From the initial adoption of 3D printing technology to the scaling of operations, the company ensures everything goes smoothly.
In 2016, the company launched the world’s first commercial 3D printing system, its first step in becoming a revolutionary in the manufacturing industry. HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) is currently working on the HP Metal Jet technology, a relatively new 3D printing process, that does not require support structures, meaning it is more independent and therefore, efficient.
HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) is one of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now and we say that because of its groundbreaking technologies that are high quality and cost-efficient. In 2014, the company made a strategic move with a vision to become the first mainstream 3D printing company, giving it a first-mover advantage and putting it ahead of its competitors.
Greenlight Capital stated the following regarding HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) in its Q2 2024 investor letter:
“In addition to gold, we had four material winners in our long portfolio this quarter. HP Inc. (NYSE:HPQ) jumped from $30.22 to $35.02. After seven quarters of declines, PC sales turned marginally positive during the quarter. The industry appears to be in the early stages of an upcycle, perhaps to be enhanced by recently launched AI-enabled PCs that are expected to ramp up over the next several quarters.”
4. Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALGN)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47
Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALGN) is another important name on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALGN) manufactures 3D digital scanners and aligners used in the orthodontics industry.
Its Invisalign system is one of the most advanced and clear aligner systems in the world and is used by over 18 million people, including 5 million teenagers. Another innovation by Align Technology, iTero, an intraoral scanner, is used by dentists for clinical precision. The 3D-printed machine has been used in more than 16 million restorations so far.
Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALGN) has more than 1976 active patents and over 18 million Invisalign patents. The company also has $3.9 billion in annualized net revenues and is home to over 21,000 employees. The company was founded in 1997 and is now emerging as a global leader in 3D printing technology. In January, the company completed the acquisition of Cubicure GmbH, a 3D printing company for polymer additive manufacturing.
47 hedge funds were bullish on Align Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:ALGN) at the close of Q2 2024, and why wouldn’t they be? The company is revolutionizing the dental industry using its advanced 3D printing technologies and is ensuring that it expands its footprint through strategic decisions.
3. Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 50
Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) is a special materials company that ranks third on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. The company provides steel products in several industries including defense, medical, energy, industrial, transportation, and aerospace. The company also specializes in the provision of 3D printing and additive manufacturing services.
The company owns a range of additive manufacturing solutions namely BioDur 108 and Ti64 Grade 23+. Its additive segment provides 360-degree coverage to its customers, providing coverage for the entire process from start to finish. Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) is also a pioneer in custom powders, material handling, and consultative development services.
During the fiscal fourth quarter of 2024, Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) increased net sales by 15% sequentially, driven by the growing demand from defense, aerospace, and medical end-use markets. Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) believes its broad portfolio and productivity gains will bring strong financial results in fiscal year 2025.
Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) is a buy and we say that because of its presence in high-growth markets such as aerospace. These markets have strong fundamentals and have a growing demand environment. Overall, 50 hedge funds were bullish on the stock at the close of Q2 2024.
Invesco Discovery Fund stated the following regarding Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) in its Q2 2024 investor letter:
“Carpenter Technology Corporation (NYSE:CRS) manufactures, fabricates and distributes stainless steels, titanium and specialty metal alloys. Management accelerated its guidance for long-term fiscal 2027 EPS (earnings per share) by a full year. Management also reported quarterly earnings that beat analysts’ expectations and raised guidance for fiscal year 2024.”
2. Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 51
Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL) ranks second on our list of the best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. Jabil is an electronics manufacturing company that operates through two segments, Electronics Manufacturing Services and Diversified Manufacturing Services. The company also specializes in 3D printing technology and additive manufacturing services.
Jabil Additive helps customers improve the way they design and make products. The company provides end-to-end services to customers allowing them to ideate, design, and deliver products. Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL) has a strong additive network that connects all manufacturing processes into a single platform, contributing to its ranking on our list.
The company is also expanding its footprint in artificial intelligence, making it a solid investment. On October 3, Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL) announced the acquisition of Mikros Technologies, a manufacturer of liquid cooling solutions in AI data centers. On October 14, the company launched new high-performance AMD and intel servers functional for AI, FinTech, and Cloud workflows. The company’s growing use of AI could indicate that it may be among the few companies to introduce AI in 3D printing.
Overall, Jabil Inc. (NYSE:JBL) has a strong additive network and we say that because it has more than 100 manufacturing locations in more than 30 countries. The company is striving to compile the whole additive manufacturing process into a single platform that can be used across multiple sites and users. At the end of Q2 2024, 51 hedge funds were bullish on the JBL, according to our Insider Monkey database.
1. Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 55
Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) is a leading software company for designers, engineers, and builders. The 3D printing company helps people create and design anything. Its technology spans architecture, engineering, construction, product design, and manufacturing. Its 3D software program, AutoCAD is its most popular product. Professionals, architects, and engineers use the software to design buildings and 3D models.
The company is leveraging AI to explore new opportunities and capabilities. Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) recently announced they were building Autodesk Forma, an architecture, engineering, construction, and operations (AECO) cloud. The cloud platform will be able to connect project data to unify workflows across teams.
In addition to that, the company is advancing its outcome-based building information modeling (BIM) and customer workflows using artificial intelligence. Having said that, Autodesk AI facilitates the understanding of complex data. The company also launched the beta version of Autodesk Assistant in Autodesk Construction Cloud. With the launch, users can now ask questions about documents using natural language prompts.
In the fiscal second quarter of 2025, Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) logged revenue worth $1.51 billion, up by 12%. Of this, recurring revenue represented 97% of the total revenue. Autodesk’s (NASDAQ:ADSK) growth trajectory proves the company’s strategy is winning. What sets ADSK apart is its ability to capture long-term trends. The company’s growing capital investments supported by increasing reconstruction and infrastructure on a global scale, position ADSK as a market leader in the 3D printing industry.
Polen Focus Growth Strategy stated the following regarding Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) in its Q2 2024 investor letter:
“Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK) and Accenture were also notable absolute detractors in the quarter. With Autodesk, most of the stock’s price weakness came in April. The company announced that it would delay the release of its earnings and 10-K filing as it launches an internal investigation regarding its practices on some non-GAAP financial metrics. Upon further analysis, we were encouraged to hear that they were taking this very seriously and being very comprehensive in their investigation. Ultimately, Accenture announced it was closing the investigation and that no re-statements would be required. As discussed in the following section, we chose to exit the position in favor of a more attractive investment.
We sold our small position in Autodesk to help fund our purchase of Shopify. We still think Autodesk is an advantaged business, with 95%+ recurring revenue, dominant in its end market, and nice tailwinds behind digitization in that end market. It should be a durable grower over time, perhaps with continued fits and starts, but we found the risk-reward around Shopify to be more compelling.”
Overall, ADSK ranks first among the 10 best 3D printing stocks to buy right now. While we acknowledge the potential of 3D printing companies, our conviction lies in the belief that AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter time frame. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than ADSK but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.
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