Why Is Modix BIG Generation 5 Attracting Attention? The Upgrade Era for Large-Format FDM Printers

Modix announced its fifth-generation platform for the BIG family of large-format FDM 3D printers on September 7, 2026. At the heart of the new generation is the Duet 3 electronics architecture. The company’s approach is not simply to sell a new machine; it is also to offer existing BIG users the ability to upgrade over time with automatic tool changing, multi-material printing, and different extrusion options. This particularly highlights the idea of increasing capacity for production teams without completely replacing the printer.

What is changing with Generation 5?

According to Modix’s announcement, the distributed electronics architecture based on Duet 3 and CANBUS allows motor drivers, input-output modules, sensors, and tool boards to be added throughout the printer. The system has room to expand to support more than 20 axes and drivers without redesigning the main electronics section. This architecture aims to simplify the management of tools and sensors added later to a large-volume FDM machine.

• Integrated accelerometer for automatic calibration and motion tuning
• Standard Ethernet connection and removable Wi-Fi option
• New touchscreen and updated user interface
• Reliability improvements based on customer feedback

The BIG series covers six different machines, from the BIG-60 to the Everest model, which is two metres high. The series focuses on producing large parts with independent dual extrusion, high-flow filament printing, and different printhead configurations.

Automatic tool changing, pellets, and angled printing

Modix says it has developed the Bondtech INDX automatic tool changer, compact pellet extruder, and 45-degree printing system for Generation 5. These features may not become commercially available at the same time; the company says it will share details as each option becomes ready.

Automatic tool changing increases the possibility of using multiple materials or colours in different areas of a part. In large-format production, this approach may be meaningful because it allows a single machine to be used for different jobs without assigning separate machines to each task. However, actual efficiency will depend on print time, tool-changing steps, material compatibility, and the design of the part.

The compact pellet extruder positions pellets on the same platform as filament, targeting higher production volumes and lower raw-material costs, while filament remains available for detail and surface control. This could be attractive for large prototypes before mass production or for bulky, mould-like parts. Nevertheless, the surface quality, drying requirements, and process settings of pellet printing should not be assumed to be the same as those of filament printing.

The 45-degree printhead has the potential to reduce the need for supports, particularly in large and hollow geometries. Angled walls may help produce certain shapes with less internal support; in return, part orientation, layer lines, bed adhesion, and surface appearance should be evaluated carefully.

What it means for Ucuz3D readers

The most important aspect of this announcement is that it places the idea of upgradeability at the centre of large-format FDM. For workshops planning to use a printer for a long time, an electronics infrastructure capable of supporting new sensors, tools, and extrusion options may help turn the investment from a one-time equipment purchase into a phased capacity plan. However, when deciding on an upgrade, you should look beyond the feature list and also consider service support, compatibility with existing printheads, enclosure conditions, and operator training.

When evaluating whether large-format production is necessary for your own part, you can review our printing materials and, after clarifying the part dimensions and operating conditions, explore 3d printing service options. When comparing the production quantity and material type you need, also take the price per gram approach into account. Uploading your model and seeing the instant price can make the decision between printing a large part as a single body and producing it in sections more concrete.

Source and date

This article was prepared based on TCT Magazine’s report on Modix’s announcement. The source article gives the publication date as September 7, 2026. It is important to distinguish between the plan described by Modix and features that are commercially ready: the availability of automatic tool changing, pellet extrusion, and 45-degree printing may vary depending on the model and delivery schedule.