Hi everyone!
I own a 3D printer (RepRap I3 Metal Motion, ~550€) and I can tell that it’s rather difficult to make it a real business, unless you invest in a really good machine of a higher range.
The reason is that the printing is really slow and require a lot of time to keep the settings of the printer ok (you have to watch carefully what’s going on, re-calibrate from time to time, try different settings on the software to find what is going to fit your goals, etc). It’s not cost-efficient (€€€ vs time).
If you really planned to start a business in 3D printing, I’d recommend you to invest 5000€-15000€ to have a reliable tool to make mini-series (it includes a supposedly reliable software).
Also, find a company that proposes at the same time to buy some parts separetely, because you probably will have to change from time to time some elements like the plate, the nozzles, some sensors, etc.
And don’t forget that it will take you some time to really be comfortable with the printer. It’s normal, it demands different skills and there is a lot of common mistakes that 3D printer make. Be patient!
Best regards,
Léo