Hubs vs Shapeways: Which 3D Printing Platform Should You Use? (2026)
Hubs and Shapeways pioneered online 3D printing ordering, but they've evolved in different directions. Hubs focuses on professional manufacturing with a vetted supplier network, while Shapeways offers consumer-friendly printing with no minimums.
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Hubs vs Shapeways: Feature Comparison
| Feature | Hubs | Shapeways |
|---|---|---|
| Business Model | Supplier network | In-house + network |
| Instant Quoting | Yes | Yes |
| Minimum Order | None | None |
| Engineering Materials | Extensive (PA, PEEK, metals) ✓ | Limited |
| CNC Machining | Yes ✓ | No |
| ISO Certifications | Yes (supplier-dependent) ✓ | Limited |
| Consumer Materials | Limited | Yes (sandstone, metals) ✓ |
| Current Status | Active ✓ | Restructured (2024) |
Supplier Profiles
- Hubs (Protolabs Network) (verified)
Protolabs Network (formerly Hubs) is a digital manufacturing platform that pairs in-house factories with a global network of vetted manufacturers to deliver prototypes and production parts. The company offers instant online quoting powered by machine
Technologies: cnc-machining, fdm, mjf, sla, sls
United States · Instant quote · Rush service - Shapeways (verified)
Shapeways is a leading digital manufacturing platform offering 3D printing services across 12 additive technologies and 90+ materials. Founded in 2008, the company has manufactured over 24 million parts for customers across 180+ countries, serving in
Technologies: mjf, saf, sls
Netherlands · Instant quote
Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
- Best for Engineering: Hubs. Hubs offers vetted suppliers with ISO certs and engineering materials
- Best for Consumer Products: Shapeways. Shapeways (when operational) offers unique consumer materials
- Best Overall Reliability: Hubs. Hubs has stable ownership and consistent service
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Frequently asked questions
Is Shapeways still operating?
Shapeways filed for bankruptcy in 2024 and has since restructured. Check their current status before ordering. Hubs (now part of ADIA) remains fully operational.
Which is cheaper, Hubs or Shapeways?
For professional/engineering parts, Hubs typically offers better pricing through competitive supplier bidding. Shapeways can be cheaper for very small consumer-grade parts with no minimum order.
Which has more materials?
Shapeways traditionally offered more consumer materials (colored sandstone, precious metals). Hubs has a stronger selection of engineering-grade materials (PA-12, PEEK, metals) through its supplier network.