When comparing Shapeways vs makexyz, the Slant community recommends Shapeways for most people. In the question“What are the best 3D printing services?” Shapeways is ranked 1st while makexyz is ranked 4th. The most important reason people chose Shapeways is:
Shapeways offers over 30 kinds of materials to choose from including platinum, sandstone and castable wax. The full list of materials can be found [here]( http://www.shapeways.com/materials/ ). On top of the materials themselves, there are several finishes to choose from. Designers and clients can order sample material kits to make sure they get what they are expecting before requesting the print.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Great selection of materials
Shapeways offers over 30 kinds of materials to choose from including platinum, sandstone and castable wax. The full list of materials can be found here. On top of the materials themselves, there are several finishes to choose from. Designers and clients can order sample material kits to make sure they get what they are expecting before requesting the print.
Pro Marketplace with an immense variety of objects to choose
Shapeways' marketplace is divided in many different sections: gadgets, puzzles, toys, games, Christmas, Hanukkah, jewelry... There really is a lot to explore and it's one of the most varied markets of it's kind. It's easy to lose hours and hours just browsing the shop and discovering things you never knew could be 3D printed.
Pro Industrial grade, quality printing
Shapeways uses industrial level technology. Their machines are capable of much more than most quality domestic 3D printers, therefore the final results are much better. On top of that, contrarily to what happens with other services, the files clients send in aren't automatically printed: they are reviewed by technicians to make sure the final result is as intended. There have been claims of 3D designs that could not be printed properly by any service, other than Shapeways.
Pro Customer Service is quite responsive and helpful
Shapeways' Customer Service is know to solve issues quickly and effectively.
Cons
Con Requires an account to get a quote
Con Slow turnaround time
Order are usually shipped anywhere between a week and three weeks after placing the order.