The 3D printing industry is expanding rapidly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 23.3% through 2030 and an expected market value of $88.28 billion. Despite this strong growth outlook, investor sentiment toward 3D printing stocks has cooled since 2021, as reflected in the performance of the 3D Printing ETF (PRNT).
However, this dip presents potential opportunities for investors. As additive manufacturing, rapid prototyping, and computer-aided design (CAD) become more integrated into mainstream production, several 3D printing companies stand out for their innovation and growth potential.
In this article, we’ll highlight top 3D printing stocks to watch in 2024—including Stratasys (SSYS), Velo3D (VLD), Desktop Metal (DM), Altair Engineering (ALTR), and more—while exploring the key trends shaping the future of this transformative industry.
Top 3D Printing Stocks to Watch
Stratasys (SSYS): A Market Leader with Strong Fundamentals
Stratasys is a pioneer in the 3D printing space, offering a wide range of solutions in hardware, software, and materials. The company boasts a projected EBITDA growth rate of 31%, significantly outperforming the sector average of 6.79%.
- Q3 Highlights:
- Revenue: $162.1 million
- Non-GAAP EPS: $0.04 (beat estimates)
- Analysts project a 40% upside, with TipRanks rating the stock a Strong Buy
Stratasys continues to secure new production contracts, strengthening its market position. Despite solid financials, the stock is currently trading below book value, making it an appealing value investment in the high-growth 3D printing sector.
Velo3D (VLD): Pioneering Metal Additive Manufacturing
Velo3D specializes in metal 3D printing for aerospace, automotive, and energy sectors. Known for its advanced SupportFree™ printing technology, VLD enables production of complex geometries without traditional support structures.
- Backed by a solid balance sheet
- Analysts maintain a Moderate Buy rating
Velo3D’s innovation positions it as a key player in next-gen manufacturing.
Nano Dimension (NNDM): Innovator in Additive Electronics
Nano Dimension focuses on additive electronics and micro-manufacturing, particularly with its flagship DragonFly IV 3D printer.
- Q2 Financials:
- Revenue: $14.74 million (+33% YoY)
- Gross Margin: Improved from 40% to 48%
- Net Loss: Decreased from $39.7 million to $9.1 million
Nano Dimension is also strategically active, opposing the proposed merger of Stratasys and Desktop Metal to maintain competitive independence.
Desktop Metal (DM): Long-Term Growth in Metal Fabrication
Despite a challenging post-IPO performance, Desktop Metal offers compelling long-term potential. Specializing in metal fabrication for sectors like dental, automotive, and industrial, the company is carving out a niche in volume production using 3D printing.
- Market Cap: $262.74 million
- Active in developing dental solutions like ScanUp
Investors with a long-term outlook may find value in its evolving product ecosystem.
Altair Engineering (ALTR): Software Powerhouse for 3D Printing Simulation
Altair provides powerful simulation and modeling software tailored for additive manufacturing. The company supports optimization, analysis, and design across multiple industries.
- Q3 Highlights:
- Revenue: $134 million (+12.3% YoY)
- EPS: $0.14 (beat by $0.10)
- EBITDA Growth: +118% YoY
- Operating Cash Flow: +265% YoY
With a $6 billion market cap and robust financials, Altair is a foundational tech partner in the AM ecosystem.
Xometry (XMTR): AI-Powered On-Demand Manufacturing
Xometry operates a custom manufacturing marketplace with integrated AI tools for rapid quotes and production.
- Market Cap: $844 million
- User Growth: Active buyers doubled from 28,130 (2021) to 55,458 (2023)
- Offers quick-turn 3D printed prototypes and small-batch manufacturing
Xometry’s AI-driven approach offers scalability and efficiency in modern supply chains.
Shapeways (SHPW): High-Risk, High-Reward Opportunity
Shapeways offers a digital platform for on-demand 3D printing. Though small in market cap, it maintains a solid balance sheet.
- Focus: Custom designs, low-volume orders, and digital prototyping
- Suitable for risk-tolerant investors looking for speculative upside
Trends Driving Growth in 3D Printing
Explosive Market Growth
- 2023 Market Size: $14.7 billion
- 2032 Forecast: $68.8 billion
- CAGR: 18.7%
Key Growth Drivers
- Customization and personalization in manufacturing
- Reduced waste and on-demand production
- Integration into sectors like healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and construction
- AI-powered automation and advanced materials
Emerging Applications
- Medical: Custom implants, prosthetics, dental appliances
- Construction: Large-scale printers for infrastructure and housing
- Consumer Electronics: Rapid iteration and design flexibility
- Defense and Aerospace: Lightweight parts with complex geometries
The Investment Case for 3D Printing Stocks
✅ Design Flexibility
3D printing allows for complex and custom structures not possible with traditional manufacturing.
✅ Rapid Prototyping
Quicker development cycles mean faster go-to-market times, especially for startups and tech companies.
✅ Sustainability
On-demand production and material efficiency align with growing ESG priorities.
✅ Diverse Sector Exposure
Investing in 3D printing provides indirect access to multiple high-growth industries.
✅ Innovation Potential
Continued R&D in materials, software, and automation can fuel long-term gains.
Risks to Consider
- High volatility and speculative valuations
- Competition from traditional and hybrid manufacturing solutions
- Slower-than-expected adoption in some sectors
- Short-term earnings pressure post-IPO or during R&D phases
Conclusion
The 3D printing industry is undergoing a profound transformation—one driven by technological innovation, material science breakthroughs, and expanding industrial use cases. While volatility remains a factor, the long-term upside is substantial.
For investors looking to capitalize on next-generation manufacturing, companies like Stratasys, Velo3D, Altair Engineering, and Xometry offer a blend of solid financials, innovative tech, and strategic market positioning.
As always, due diligence is key. Evaluate the risk profiles, financial health, and growth strategies of each company before investing. Those with a long-term vision stand to benefit the most as 3D printing reshapes how the world designs, builds, and creates.
