One of the most crucial factors when creating a website is ensuring it's accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities. This is a challenging task, but it's required by accessibility regulations like the ADA and WCAG. Thanks to the abundance of web accessibility tools available, however, it's now easier than ever to make your website accessible.

One such tool is AccessiBe, an AI-powered web accessibility solution that helps website owners comply with various accessibility standards and legislation. Their "accessWidget" feature is a game-changer, as it automatically adjusts a website's design and user interface to meet accessibility requirements, providing a seamless experience for individuals with disabilities.

AccessiBe's solution is a step towards a more inclusive web experience, allowing people with disabilities to navigate and comprehend websites easily. It's a great way to ensure your website is accessible to all, regardless of their abilities.

• Interested in AccessiBe? Visit the AccessiBe website to get started. 

AccessiBe has a lot of terrific features, although there are few things that might cause you to pause. Here's a look at what we like—and don't like about the tool. 

Features

Have you ever visited a website that was difficult to navigate due to accessibility issues? If so, you know how frustrating finding the information you need can be. That's where AccessiBe's accessWidget comes in.

This innovative two-part solution is designed to help companies and organizations make their websites compliant with today's accessibility regulations. At the core of the accessWidget is its cutting-edge AI-powered automated remediation feature.

The automated remediation tool scans and analyzes a website using sophisticated algorithms, quickly identifying potential accessibility issues. From there, it automatically fixes these issues across various areas, including screen readers, keyboard navigation, and alternative image text descriptions.

Thanks to AccessiBe's accessWidget, website owners can ensure their sites are usable for every user, including those with disabilities or other needs. This powerful feature assists with making the web more welcoming and open to all.

AccessiBe also empowers end-users to customize the website's design to match their needs. For instance, individuals with visual impairments can use color contrast, font size, and layout adjustment options to navigate the site more easily. Meanwhile, those with cognitive disabilities can benefit from the widget's ability to reduce distractions and simplify the interface. For users with epilepsy, AccessiBe can instantly remove flashing or blinking animations to ensure a safe and comfortable browsing experience.

By combining automated fixes with user-customizable options, AccessiBe helps to improve website accessibility for a broader range of users. No matter what kind of disability someone may have, AccessiBe works to create a more inclusive online space for everyone.

The AccessiBe accessWidget is an accessibility solution that ensures adherence to WCAG 2.1 AA requirements, covering a wide range of disabilities. These include, but are not limited to, blindness, motor impairments, and various visual and cognitive disabilities. With its comprehensive features, the accessWidget provides a detailed and user-friendly solution for website accessibility.

AccessiBe offers various add-ons designed to enhance the accessWidget. 

Although it’s not included in our review, AccessiBe also markets a product called accessFlow. It’s an all-in-one platform that programmers can use to test, monitor, and remediate the accessibility of websites and web applications.

Key features accessFlow include:

Audits: Automated tools scan websites and simulate assistive technology sessions to identify accessibility issues based on established standards, like WCAG 2.1.

Guidance: Developers can easily fix accessibility issues with provided instructions and code examples.

Workflow management: Developers can prioritize and assign tasks to address accessibility issues with a structured workflow.

24/7 monitoring: accessFlow monitors applications for regressions to ensure that new updates or changes do not introduce accessibility issues.

How does AccessiBe use AI

AccessiBe AI technology handles more complex accessibility adjustments, such as screen-reader optimization and keyboard navigation. It does so using contextual understanding, image recognition, and OCR. It’s also designed to monitor websites and ensure compliance is continuously maintained. AccessWidget’s AI re-scans every page of every site at a minimum rate once every 24 hours, guaranteeing new updates are being remediated for compliance immediately.

By automating these backend adjustments, AccessiBe ensures they are done efficiently and affordably while still completed within reasonable timeframes. This makes it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to meet their accessibility needs and provide equal access to all their customers.

Installation, setup, and compatibility

Although it's not included in our review, AccessiBe also markets a product called accessFlow. It's an all-in-one platform that programmers can use to test, monitor, and remediate the accessibility of websites and web applications.

The AccessiBe accessWidget is a powerful accessibility solution that can be quickly and easily installed on any website, regardless of the browser or web content management system used. This means that it can be employed by websites built on different platforms, such as WordPress, Shopify, BigCommerce, Weebly, Webflow, Squarespace, etc.

To install the AccessiBe accessWidget, you must embed a JavaScript snippet in your website's HTML code. AccessiBe provides the snippet and can be easily installed by following the instructions provided on their website. The steps required to set up the software are simple and do not require any specialized technical knowledge or skills. The installation procedure can be accomplished by anyone, regardless of their level of expertise with technology.

The installation steps may vary slightly if you use a CMS such as Shopify or WordPress. However, AccessiBe has provided detailed instructions for these platforms and others to help customers with installation. The instructions give a step-by-step guide on installing the accessWidget on your website and include troubleshooting tips in case of any issues.

Overall, the AccessiBe accessWidget is a versatile and user-friendly accessibility solution that can be installed on any website. With its easy installation process and detailed instructions, you can ensure that your website is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

Plans and pricing

AccessiBe provides a free trial for individuals who wish to test its accessWidget. Once the free trial period ends, you can choose from four plans based on the number of website pages or whether you want to buy AccessiBe's additional products.

If you have 1,000 pages or less, you can opt for the standard plan at an annual rate of $490. This plan includes AI and customization features, as well as daily compliance monitoring and scans, monthly AI-powered accessibility compliance audits, and other features. The advanced plan costs $1,490 per year and covers websites with fewer than 10,000 pages. The advanced plus plan costs $3,490 per year and covers websites with 100,000 or more pages.

Both the advanced and advanced plus plans come with additional features such as priority support, Google Analytics integration, and a monthly remediation report. The extras also include management tools for users and teams, multi-accounts, and API and batch management.

For organizations that require coverage for more than 100,000 pages, AccessiBe provides customizable plans that vary in price based on the number of pages.

Final verdict

The installation of the AccessiBe accessWidget is a quick and easy process. However, some users have reported a learning curve associated with the tool. 

The widget's most significant issue is its performance and its writing in JavaScript. Some websites in 2024 may not work well with JavaScript, and potential users should consider this before deciding on an accessibility tool. 

There is both good and bad news regarding pricing. On a positive note, AccessiBe’s prices align with similar tools such as UserWay. Unfortunately, the yearly price will increase significantly if you’re interested in any of the AccessiBe add-ons. Your best bet is to discuss this with AccessiBe and see if price breaks are available, especially if you have under 10,000 pages that need to be monitored. 

Overall, AccessiBe works as expected and is worth considering. Just keep in mind the pros and the cons. 

More from TechRadar Pro

• We've also featured the best AI tools. 
• You will also be interested in our best web accessibility services of the year.
• Best CMS of the year.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Two-minute review

Lenovo keeps trying to make foldable PCs happen, and to its credit, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 makes a strong case that the foldable laptop is a viable form factor after all.

The new X1 Fold 16 officially follows up the original Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold I reviewed back in 2020, and I have very mixed feelings about this device, to say the least. For one, let's just get the price out of the way. The X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 is available now and starts at $2,499.99 (about £2,000/AU$3,500), which immediately makes this a very premium device, even for the business user who is most likely to want to pick one up. 

Increase the specs and you're going to quickly ring up quite a bill at checkout. Oh, and on the US base configuration, the Bluetooth keyboard and stand are an optional, $300 purchasable upgrade, though the UK base configuration does include it in the cost of purchase. 

But ThinkPads are typically some of the best business laptops, and many business users are going to expense this device, so the sticker shock might not be as heavy as it would be for the average consumer. And what you're getting for the money is genuinely innovative in a way that we really haven't seen in the mobile computing market in a long while.

Part of that innovation here is the versatility this device offers users. Want a laptop in portrait mode for documents or coding? Done. Want a clamshell device that you can use in rather tight confines, like an economy seat on a domestic flight? Also done. Want a professional tablet you can use to sketch or mark-up documents with a stylus? The X1 Fold 16 has that covered too.

And unlike the absolutely dreadful Intel Lakefield chip in the original X1 Fold that could barely run two apps at once, the 12th-gen Intel Core U-series processors in the X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 are very solid chips for productivity and light multimedia work, so you don't run into similar frustrations as the earliest X1 Fold adopters are likely to be dealing with right now.

You also get a device that is well-built (except the add-on keyboard and stand, they've got some issues), looks great thanks to its 2560 x 2024 OLED display, and is lightweight and portable enough to tuck into bags that would normally balk at trying to squeeze in a laptop. I have opinions on the redesign that I'll get into in a bit, but on its merits, it's an eye-catching device that you'll be able to easily show off in an airport lounge.

The only question is whether there is really a market for this kind of device right now, and that's not really clear just yet. At $2,500 to start, buying the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 is going to be something of a gamble for a lot of users, but it will at least deliver you a decent amount of performance so it will still be a good laptop hybrid device once the initial novelty of its foldable screen wears off.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Price & availability

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 is available now in the US and UK, but it doesn't look like it's available in Australia yet, so I have reached out to Lenovo for clarification on regional availability and will update this review if and when I hear back from the company.

Starting at $2,499.99 in the US, and £4,389 in the UK, the base configurations come with an Intel Core i5-1230U processor with Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, and a 256GB SSD. There are several configurable options on the X1 Fold 16, but the max spec includes an Intel Core i7-1260U processor with Intel Iris Xe graphics, 32GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 1TB SSD, all of which will run you $3,694 in the US and £4709 in the UK—and that's before any additional upgrades like Windows 11 Pro or additional security software subscriptions.

Compare this to the Asus Zenbook 17 Fold OLED, which is the only other major foldable laptop on sale right now, and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 is the cheaper of the two in the US by about $1,000 but is more expensive in the UK by about £1,100. In addition, both devices have very similar specs, so you'll have to fiddle with the configurations on each to see which makes the most sense for your budget.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Specs

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Design

Ok, so about this design.

First thing's first, the OLED display is gorgeous and bright, getting well above 100% of the sRGB color gamut, and its touchscreen response is snappy. The fold in the middle doesn't have any physical signs of crinkle or anything like that, but I haven't been using it for over a year, so whether the screen holds up remains to be seen.

Folding the laptop closed, you get a device that looks a lot like a big black book, with only the rubber ThinkPad X1 and Lenovo badges, and Intel Evo emblem to hint at its purpose. The textured exterior (made from Recycled PET Woven Performance fabric) runs into the aluminum 'spine' of the laptop where the hinge mechanism is, and if you have the keyboard folio, it magnetically attaches to the underside of the device, which does provide something of a cushion for the laptop to rest on.

The included Lenovo Precision Pen also magnetically connects to the side of the device, so bundling everything up and taking it with you is an easy enough process, especially given that the magnets are strong enough that they aren't likely to pop off willy-nilly.

Sounds great, and I appreciate Lenovo going with some more sustainable materials here rather than the synthetic leather of the original X1 Fold. But a part of me is sad to see the leather binding go. For all of the original X1 Fold's myriad faults, it was genuinely a work of art, design-wise.

But, we're not here to play around in an English department lounge, we're here to work, and for a business-facing device, the ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 is easily the most beautiful device I've seen in a long time.

As for ports and features, ports are understandably limited given the form factor, but you do get two Thunderbolt 4 and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports, so you do have some space for you docks, peripherals, and charging cables.

The webcam is a 5MP infrared that sits at the 'top' edge of the display when held in portrait mode, and along the side when in landscape. This is going to make your positioning during conference calls awkward at times, no doubt, but the biggest issue is the lack of a physical privacy shutter, which is heresy for a ThinkPad. I can understand the difficulty of finding a way to fit one into the form factor, but that and the lack of on-device fingerprint scanning does make this somewhat less secure than other ThinkPads.

Lastly, the keyboard folio is a $300 add on in the US, but it sure as heck doesn't feel like it. The thin Bluetooth keyboard feels like some very stiff cardboard wrapped in a soft fabric. The keys are cramped and there are times when the keyboard had issues pairing with the X1 Fold 16, though I eventually got it to work. The laptop stand, meanwhile, often does a poor job of actually holding the laptop up while you're using it, which isn't great. Given how much you're spending on this laptop, only buy the keyboard folio if you absolutely must have the convenience of magnetic attachment and getting this device squeezed into the lightest of the best laptop bags. There are better tablet stand-keyboard holders out there, so better to buy those as they'll probably work better in the long run.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Performance

So the performance on the X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 is, again, a mixed bag. On the one hand, its performance is lightyears ahead of its predecessor, but as a 12th-gen Intel chip, it is significantly behind where the market is right now in terms of performance.

To be clear, you can still get your work done just fine on a 12th-gen Intel chip in 2024, lots of people do it, and given the slowing pace of raw processing power gen-on-gen, buying a 12th-gen chip right now isn't going to suddenly be obsolete in three years the way it might have been a decade ago.

If you're looking to get productivity work done and that's your primary purpose for this device, with a side of video streaming and web browsing, even a 12th-gen chip might be too much processing power for your needs. 

But it's not the best Lenovo ThinkPad we've tested, not by a long shot. This one is still going to be a slower laptop than others on the market right now, so you really have to want the foldable form factor to justify the trade-off in performance. If you're ok with that, godspeed, but if you actually need a high-performance ThinkPad, you are going to be disappointed with the X1 Fold 16—especially considering the price tag.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1: Battery Life

The battery life on the ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 is decent enough, and I suspect this is why Lenovo (and Asus) went with 12th-gen U-series chips rather than a then-current 13th-gen or one of the new Intel Core Ultras.

In tablet mode, the X1 Fold 16 got about 7 hours and 27 minutes of battery life in our web surfing test. In laptop mode, it did much better, getting just shy of nine hours of use.

The 64WHr combined battery (there are actually two batteries in the X1 Fold, a 48WHr and a 16WHr, one on each side of the fold), definitely helps here, especially since Intel's 12th-gen chips are very power hungry.

Should you buy the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1?

Buy the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 16 Gen 1 if...

Don't buy it if...

• First reviewed February 2024

A lot has changed in the last year in the world of 3D printing. While the machines may appear similar, it's the firmware and processing power that have taken significant leaps forward. These advancements introduce a new generation of printers featuring the latest Klipper firmware, capable of faster and higher-quality printing than their predecessors from just a year ago. 

The Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus is a perfect example of this progress, offering a mid-range print area that is impressively large and a design that allows for large-scale printing in a fraction of the time taken by traditional machines. While maintaining a familiar design, Artillery3D has strengthened the structure to accommodate the increased motion of the print head and platform, minimizing the effects of vibrations by using Pull rods and linear rails. 

Despite its scale, the Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus remains one of the best 3D printers for confident beginners and entry-level hobbyists. However, it also packs in features alongside cutting-edge firmware. The Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus refines previous designs and enhances with increased speed and precision.

Artillary3D Sidewinder X4 Plus: Design

The Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus follows the common bed-slinger cartesian 3D printer design, necessitating a bit more space for this large-sized printer than most. It launches alongside the smaller X4 Pro, and interestingly, there doesn't seem to be a standard X4 model yet.

Aesthetically, the design is fairly standard, featuring two tall uprights supporting the crossbar, with the tool head suspended from it. A notable addition, typical for printers of this size, is the dual pull rod kit that reinforces the uprights. The tool head, comprising both the hotend and extruder, is complemented by a filament sensor mounted onto the frame and a small touchscreen for navigating settings and options.

The printer includes several extras, such as an integrated tool tray and USB Type-A and C ports, rounding off the design nicely. A top-mounted spool holder for filament adds to the height of this already-tall printer.

Despite its size, the printer feels relatively compact compared to its large print area. Its footprint is only marginally larger than smaller models, with height being the primary consideration.

An aspect worth mentioning is the weight. While the aesthetics and product design might seem basic, the quality is evident in the weight of the components used. Linear rails replace the more common rods which adds robustness to the machine and is a feature that's sometimes missing in similar-sized competitors. This weight does make it slightly more challenging to manoeuvre, but it also aids in reducing vibrations and movement during use.

Artillary3D Sidewinder X4 Plus: Features

The Sidewinder X4 Plus, while resembling other large-format printers, has undergone enhancements in its frame and structure to meet the demands of the advanced Klipper firmware. A notable improvement is the inclusion of all-metal linear rails on the X and Y axes, which not only boosts the printer's stability and durability but also enhances its precision compared to the previous generation. This robust build becomes especially crucial under the stress of high-speed printing, where the linear rails help maintain greater accuracy than traditional rods, ensuring reliability.

A key feature of the X4 Plus is its generous build volume of 300x300x400mm, allowing for larger models or multiple prints with ease. 

Despite being an entry-level machine, the inclusion of advanced features like a 4.3-inch touchscreen is commendable. This screen offers easy navigation and control. The combination of pre-installed Klipper firmware and an ARM processor enables the printer to reach impressive speeds (up to 500mm/s) while maintaining quality.

The printer's all-metal hotend can reach temperatures up to 300°C, making it compatible with a variety of materials, from standard PLA to more demanding ones like Carbon Fiber. The tool head features a dual-gear direct drive extruder, enhancing reliability and enabling the printing of flexible materials.

In terms of convenience, the Sidewinder X4 Plus offers multiple connectivity options. Its WiFi capability allows for direct file uploads from computers or mobile devices, eliminating the need for wires. This, along with USB and LAN options, adds even more flexibility.

Upon arrival, the printer's setup is quick and easy, coming 98% pre-assembled. The auto-levelling feature, with 121 points of detection, ensures an even and precise first layer, which is essential for successful printing.

For those living in areas prone to power outages, the printer features a resume printing function. This allows the printer to restart from where it left off after a pause or short power outage, adding a layer of convenience and reliability.

Advanced features like Pressure Advance and Input Shaping should also catch the attention of users. These functions are critical for minimizing vibrations and shaking during high-speed printing, especially relevant when using the high-speed Klipper firmware on a printer of this size.

Artillary3D Sidewinder X4 Plus: Performance

Starting with the setup, the 98% pre-assembled build of the machine is a great advantage for anyone new to 3D printers and intimidated by the construction or assembly of a machine. The instructions could be better, but then again, there is little to assemble, and this is a pre-release model. After a few screws are installed into the base to secure the uprights and the pull rods and cables are connected, you're pretty much ready to print.

In our review sample, the USB key came loaded with a few sample models, which quickly demonstrated the printer's capabilities. It was a fast and impressive start. As the tests progressed, the machine proved reliable, with one pause in the printing process where the firmware needed a restart, and unfortunately, the print was lost.

This issue could have been due to various factors, such as the workshop temperature dropping below 12ºC, which was the most probable reason as it wasn't repeated at a more standard temperature of 16ºC and above.

Examining the quality of the prints, they look great. There are some minor blips in surface quality, but overall, the prints are well-produced, with little signs of stringing.

As the print tests became more technical, such as running the Autodesk Kickstarter test, the printer's small limitations became apparent. Issues like negative space and bridging fell slightly behind what I've seen from other printers recently. However, the overall surface quality is good, with visible layering that is precise, and the top surfaces of prints are generally well-finished.

For the majority of prints, there is little to fault. The print quality is above that of most entry-level printers, though it doesn't quite meet the quality of finish of high-end models.

Artillary3D Sidewinder X4 Plus: Print quality

Dimensional accuracy - score of 5

Target 25 = X: 24.90mm / 0.1mm Error | Y: 24.97mm / 0.03mm Error 

Target 20 = X: 19.82mm / 0.18mm Error | Y: 19.89mm / 0.11mm Error 

Target 15 = X: 14.94mm / 0.06mm Error | Y: 14.86mm / 0.14mm Error 

Target 10 = X: 9.89mm / 0.11mm Error | Y: 9.97mm / 0.03mm Error 

Target 5 = X: 5.07mm / 0.07mm Error | Y: 5.21mm / 0.21mm Error 

X Error Average = 0.104

Y Error Average = 0.104

X&Y Error Average = 0.104

Fine Flow Control - score of 5 

Fine Negative Features - score of 3 

Overhangs - score of 4 

Bridging - score of 4

XY resonance - score of 2.5

Z-axis alignment - score of 2.5

Adding up the totals gives a final score of 26 out of 30.

Artillary3D Sidewinder X4 Plus: Final verdict

The Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus stands out for its impressive build volume, advanced features, and speed capabilities. The printer is designed to cater for anyone looking for a large, fast and well-priced printer for all manner of projects, however, it's important to weigh its strengths against its shortcomings to determine if it meets with your needs.

 If your projects often demand a substantial build area, this printer is an ideal match. The 300x300x400mm print volume is a significant advantage, allowing for large-scale models or batch printing. Likewise, if speed and balanced quality are essential, or you're just impatient, then the Sidewinder X4 Plus is a great choice. That Klipper firmware, coupled with the robust build, enables it to achieve speeds up to 500mm/s - it's also relatively quiet once it gets going.

If the design and aesthetic appeal are big on your list of features, then this model might not meet your expectations. Its design is more functional than stylish, focusing on performance rather than appearance. While not overly complex, if you're new to 3D printing, then some of the advanced features and settings might be daunting, but they really should put you on track.

The Artillery3D Sidewinder X4 Plus offers a blend of size, speed, and precision. However, it's best suited for users who have some experience with 3D printing and those who prioritize functionality and performance over anything else.

Should You Buy the Ender 3 V3 KE?

We tested the best 3D modeling software - and these are our favorites right now

The FormLabs Form3+ is a distinctive-looking machine with a weighty build and refined quality that instantly highlights this as a high-quality machine. Yet, while the price might put it out of reach for most home users if you're serious about finding the best 3D printers out there - and demand absolute quality, then the Form3+ should be the printer you aim for. However, the core audience is businesses looking for a solution for producing high-quality prototypes or production parts. The quality of the print ensures accuracy and fine detail, while the range of materials offers a greater range of long-term applications for the prints that you produce.

FormLabs has also looked at the entire resin print process, as there's only an escape from the mess that resin can make if you follow a set procedure. Here, FormLabs has first made a machine that pretty much handles the full flow of resin into the machine through the print process so that once the resin tank is installed, the only time you need to get your hands dirty is when you remove the print, ready for cleaning and curing. Even here, at the most time-consuming part of the process, FormLabs has you covered with the cleaning and automated wash and cure system that all makes the process nice and easy and as clean as possible.

FormLabs Form3+: Design

In this review, I'm purely focusing on the main machine, the FormLabs Form3+, which is the resin 3D printer itself. However, throughout the test, I coupled the use of this with the FormWash and FormCure machines. I also tested the cleaning and curing with other machines, but I will say from the outset that the quality of wash and cure is a huge step up when you use the FormLabs machines.

Looking at the Form3+, the design of this SLA printer is instantly recognizable with the orange protective cover, dark grey base, and large LCD screen. While the technology of the machines has developed along with the design, the machines themselves still reflect the company's distinctive style.

Setting up the machine is relatively quick once it is removed from all the packaging. As the printer is removed from the box, the weight is instantly apparent, as is the high-quality build that gives the machine a high-quality look and feel.

Once everything is laid out, the actual setup process is incredibly quick. First, the resin cartridge is installed, then the build platform is installed and locked, and finally, the Resin Tank is installed with the wiper clicked into place. Once those components are installed and the machine is switched on, sensors check that you have done everything correctly, and essentially, you're ready to start printing.

There are a few points to the design which really stand out. Firstly, the cartridge and tank are designed in such a way that you can swap materials easily. Simply close the vent cap on the cartridge and withdraw, and the cartridge can be stored for use. Likewise, the resin tank can be removed and comes with a lid so that, again, it can be safely set aside for a time while another material is used. The resin tanks are designed to be reusable and can be cleaned when needed.

While the resin cartridge simply inserts into the back of the machine, the build platform and resin tank are contained under the large hinged orange cover. This makes everything neat and helps protect you. This also enables the chamber itself to be air-heated, which helps with the overall quality of the prints with each of the different materials.

One of the interesting features of the Form3+ and the resin tank is that the film is held under tension, which aids with the quality of the finish that is produced. Also, unlike other machines that use an LED matrix UV light source, the Form uses a far more accurate Class 1 Laser, which instantly enables it to produce far higher quality prints and widens the resin options that you can use.

However, this does mean that some of the FormLabs specialist resins are eye-wateringly expensive compared to the open resin options, including more standard 405nm photopolymer resin, which can be purchased at a fraction of the price of some of the FormLabs options.

Finally, one of the big features of the machine when it comes to its pure ease of use is the large touchscreen on the front. This essentially guides you through the process, from setup to print, as well as giving you information about the print process. The screen and its user interface simply make tracking the print and the status of the machine easy with a visual representation of what is going on. This interface also enables you to connect the machine to your WiFi connection so that you can upload models directly from your computer installed with PreForm and monitor the print through the browser interface. However, there's no camera for a live feed.

The design of the Form3+ makes the print process easy. While this machine is more expensive than many of the resin 3D printers out there, it uses true laser technology. It opens up material options far beyond what other resin printers can presently offer. In its design, it also offers a full ecosystem, from the slicing and monitoring software all the way through to the final print.

FormLabs Form3+: Features

Compared with the bulk of 3D printers, many features of the Form3+ will appear distinct, even when contrasted with the latest resin printers. The primary difference is that this is a laser system rather than an LCD, which essentially means that the focused laser of the Form3+ is far more accurate and ensures far more precise curing of the resins than the LCD equivalents. So, if you're prototyping or manufacturing parts, a jeweller, dentist, or engineer, then the Form3+ with its laser technology is the best choice. Whereas, as a hobbyist, the LCD resin printers are good but need help to compete when it comes to absolute accuracy and detail.

When it comes to the laser itself, the Form3+ features a 250 mW laser that provides pinpoint accuracy for high-precision materials and makes it possible to print intricate details and boost the quality of print well above that of its LCD counterparts.

The Form3+ takes this technology a step further with the Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) technology. This essentially enhances print quality by reducing stress on parts, ensuring the print releases from the tensioned flexible screen easily during printing, resulting in finer detail and a smoother finish.

One of the big issues with resin 3D printers has always been the size of the build area. However, the 14.5 × 14.5 × 19.3 cm build platform of the Form3+ is a decent size and, while not as large as many FDM printers, is absolutely fine for many 3D print jobs.

One of the features that has really stood out throughout the review is the fast-change resin cartridges and tank. Not only are these easy to remove and replace, but FormLabs has ensured that there is a way to store and clean the components easily when possible.

One of my pet hates with resin printers is the post-print process. Here, with the Form3+, the Auto-Generated Light-Touch Removal Supports make print removal a lot easier. A simple twist of the print from the build platform is often all that's needed, or with more delicate prints; snips can be used. Either way, the initial support removal is designed to be easier than with most other resin options out there.

Having a heated chamber is something that we're starting to see on the latest resin printers, and it really does make a difference. Essentially, this keeps the print area at the optimal temperature for the resin. As the Form3+ system is so integrated, this is all handled automatically for you based on the resin that you have inserted.

Material compatibility is an important factor for many 3D printing tasks. However, with Form3+, materials are designed with purpose, and the machine adapts the settings to accommodate the huge variety of specialist materials. It's worth noting that these materials are expensive, as they're all pro-grade with different characteristics, so make sure you buy the materials you need - on average, these will set you back around $120 / £120 or above per cartridge, over double standard 405nm photopolymer resin. The good news is that 405nm photopolymer resin can be used if you want a cheaper material solution.

Two major features really help with the machine's workflow. The first is the touchscreen. This provides an intuitive interface for easy control and navigation through the printer's settings, although, for the most part, the printer will handle everything for you. Otherwise, once connected to the WiFi network, you can control everything through the PreForm software. This software is outstanding and enables you to adjust the models, supports, and everything you need about the model. There's also a web browser interface that enables you to monitor the print, which is handy.

Along with the printer comes a range of accessories, the obvious ones being the materials, resin tanks, and build platforms. Alongside these are the Form Wash, Form Cure, and finish station. If the budget allows, then these accessories are well worth the extra expenditure as they will help to boost the overall quality of the print and finish by giving you all the tools you need to clean, cure, and finish the prints properly.

FormLabs Form3+: Performance

There are several traits of the prints that emerge from the FormLabs printer that make them stand out when compared with other 3D printers. The first is the finish, which, with the tough grey material, was almost indistinguishable from an injection-moulded part once fully cleaned. The level of detail and the absolute accuracy and consistency of the parts are just well beyond what you expect from an FFF 3D printer.

Even compared with other resin printers, albeit LCD rather than laser, the quality of the print is different, with the higher rate of precision from the laser ensuring that the print quality and level of detail were taken up a notch. However, it's worth pointing out that the latest LCD printers are exceptionally good, and while there is a quality difference between this and one of the cheaper models, that gap that existed is closing.

Examining the quality of the prints, they look great. There are some minor blips in surface quality, but overall, the prints are well-produced, with little signs of stringing.

As the print tests became more technical, such as running the Autodesk Kickstarter test, the printer's small limitations became apparent. Issues like negative space and bridging fell slightly behind what I've seen from other printers recently. However, the overall surface quality is good, with visible layering that is precise, and the top surfaces of prints are generally well-finished.

For the majority of prints, there is little to fault. The print quality is above that of most entry-level printers, though it doesn't quite meet the quality of finish of high-end models.

FormLabs Form3+: Print quality

However, there are several points that you find when using the printer, which means if I had the money, then the Form3+ is definitely the printer that I would opt for without a doubt. It's also the printer that I would recommend for any business needing a production-quality model.

The first of the points around performance is the workflow. While other printers are quickly catching up, they're still far from the absolute ease of use. The cartridge system is simple, as is the tank design; you literally insert it, and then you're ready to go. Likewise, there's no faffing around with adjustment; the machine does everything on that front for you, including filling the tank and making sure that the temperature and consistency of the resin are correct for the best possible quality print.

Once the print has finished, the platform releases easily, and being the build platform 2, a quick push of the handles and the print pops off without the usual battle to release the print. Then it's just a case of dropping into the Form Wash, removing the supports, and then into the Form Cure to finish.

Essentially, FormLabs has created an entire ecosystem that makes the process as mess-free as possible, although eliminating all the stickiness isn't quite yet possible.

Once the print has fully dried, it can then be worked so that if there are any remnants of the support structure, these can be removed with a file, snips, or knife. Generally, the prints came out relatively clean and ready for use. One of the main projects for this project was to create a focus bracket for an Arri Alexa follow focus; this required absolute accuracy, although simple. This proved to be a simple enough project for the printer in one of the tough materials and was immediately put to use.

Likewise, other functional parts were easy to make and support with the Light-Touch Removal Supports that are generated by the software, holding the model firm during the printing process and then ripping free relatively easily once the wash process is complete. Under a bright light, the prints can then be inspected and cleaned before curing. I found that once the wash had been completed, I would remove the supports, brush away any support debris, and then give another quick wash before curing.

If any supports are left in place during the curing process, then on some models, they're almost impossible to remove due to the strength of the materials.

When it came to detail, these models showed a quality and level of detail that no FFF printer that I have used can come close to competing with. Even the best of the LCD printers with their high-resolution screens are left behind when the printer is switched to the highest quality setting.

The surface finish and detail are also exceptional, and while you do have to clean up the prints to a greater degree than with many FFF models, the quality is just outstanding. For me, the real advantage of Form3+ is the Light-Touch Removal Support. Unlike other printer software that creates support structures that are almost impossible to remove, the PreForm software enables you to balance the support structure perfectly.

While this is aimed at the professional market and businesses such as architecture, engineering, jewellery, film, and many more, this printer will also benefit model makers and other craft enthusiasts looking for absolute quality and precision.

FormLabs Form3+: Final verdict

The FormLabs Form3+ is by far the best in its class, sitting between LCD, DLP, and true SLA printers. At its price, it may seem expensive, especially if you have been looking at the lower end of the resin market, but in reality, this is one of the cheaper SLA printers out there.

As FormLabs has been in the market for quite a few years and has a large user base, it's no surprise that they have managed to create a resin printer that manages to streamline the process and, if not eliminate the mess, they have given you the tools to help improve the workflow and keep things as neat, tidy, and sticky-free as possible.

When it comes to the printer, it's a decent size and will take up quite a bit of desk space. But then, it's also worth considering additional space for the Form Wash and Form Cure machine, which, although smaller, are still a sizable footprint. On top of this, you'll also need a bit of spare work surface for the cleaning station. However, due to the advanced nature of the materials and that outstanding support structure, the prints produced cleaned up far quicker than any other model of printer that I have used, and actually, much of the hard work is removed with those light-touch supports.

As a complete high-quality 3D print solution for high-quality models, the Form3+ is hard to beat due not only to the quality of the machine but also to the workflow and ecosystem that makes what has been a time-consuming process in the past so much easier.

Should You Buy the FormLabs Form3+?

We tested the best 3D modeling software - and these apps really bring creations to life

As a website owner, you must ensure your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. It is not only about promoting inclusivity but also a legal requirement. This is where UserWay comes in. It's a web accessibility solution that helps to make your site compliant with several accessibility regulations, such as the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines).

UserWay is an artificial intelligence (AI)--powered solution that provides a widget that can be seamlessly integrated into your site, enhancing website accessibility without modifying its code. With a range of features tailored to assist users with disabilities, including vision impairments, cognitive disabilities, motor skills issues, and much more, UserWay ensures your website is accessible to everyone.

Website owners who want to make their website accessible to all should consider using UserWay. It helps you comply with legal requirements and provides a range of useful features to aid users with disabilities. However, weighing its pros and cons before deciding is essential, like any other solution.

• Interested in UserWay? Visit the UserWay website to get started. 

Features

UserWay is a platform designed to assist website owners in making their websites accessible to all individuals, regardless of their abilities. To utilize UserWay, you must integrate a line of code that works seamlessly with popular content management systems like Shopify, WordPress, and Wix. Once implemented, the AI-powered widget immediately begins adjusting your website by enabling keyboard navigation, adjusting color contrasts, modifying text spacing, and more. 

While the UserWays widget automatically handles all the accessibility requirements for your website, it also provides customization options. You can adjust the settings to ensure that the accessibility features align with your website design and functionality.

UserWay offers a lot more than just a web widget. In addition to the widget, the platform provides a comprehensive web accessibility scanner, monitor, check solution, and an audit tool. By simply entering a URL, the UserWay Accessibility Scanner can read your sitemap and automatically scan individual pages, which reduces the time and effort required. Moreover, the Accessibility Scanner can identify issues that may only appear on specific screen sizes and devices. It can scan 30,000 pages on mobile and desktop sites in less than an hour and deliver quick results in just a few minutes. 

The UserWay Audit feature, on the other hand, is a manual tool where experts assess your digital assets manually for WCAG 2.1/2.2 AA compliance levels. By doing so, you will receive a full report that can help your team meet U.S., Canadian, European, and international regulations for websites, apps, and designs. With UserWay's comprehensive suite of accessibility tools, you can ensure that your digital content is accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

How does UserWay use AI?

AI technology has been a topic of debate in recent times. However, it is widely acknowledged that AI plays a significant and primarily positive role in various industries. At UserWay, AI is utilized to improve real-time web accessibility in several ways.

One of the ways UserWay's AI helps is by detecting and correcting accessibility violations in a website's code. This automation saves time and resources compared to manual coding fixes. It also provides users with personalized browsing experiences, such as adjusting font size and color contrast.

Although UserWay's AI reduces the need for manual work, it still requires human expertise to enhance the system. UserWay refers to this as a "Human-in-the-Loop" system, where people play a crucial role in training, monitoring, and refining the AI's capabilities.

Installation, setup, and compatibility

UserWay's comprehensive service revolves around its widget, which is the core of the company's offering. The widget is designed with simplicity, ensuring easy integration for users. UserWay offers native integrations with various CMS platforms, including WordPress, Shopify, Duda, Squarespace, Magento, Joomla, Drupal, BigCommerce, and SharePoint. These platforms offer a seamless integration process, often featuring a dedicated button within the platform to connect with UserWay.

Moreover, UserWay's solution can also work with other platforms, albeit not natively. These include Wix, Weebly, GoDaddy, Webflow, and GitHub Pages.

The UserWay Accessibility Widget is packed with over 50 innovative accessibility features that provide a high degree of control over the experience on your site, web app, or platform. The widget's features include voice navigation, an integrated screen reader, accessibility profiles, site translations, usage statistics, and advanced customization capabilities. These features empower users to optimize their website's accessibility and cater to a broader audience.

Adding the UseWay plugin is crucial for making your site more usable for every visitor, irrespective of their capabilities. However, the process may differ slightly depending on your CMS. But the good news is that the UseWay website contains easy-to-follow training tools to guide you through installation. 

For this review, I worked with the UseWay widget with WordPress. And I must say, it was truly a breeze. The first step is downloading and installing the UseWay Accessibility plugin from WordPress. You can enable this feature by navigating to the Plugins area within your WordPress administration panel and looking for the plugin called "UserWay Accessibility Widget."

Once you have installed and activated the plugin, choose it, then create a new installation. From there, you must register this installation with your UserWay account. Don't worry; the registration process is straightforward to follow.

After that, you can enable the widget and customize its size, color, and position. You can also create an accessibility statement for the website, which is performed through the widget's settings page. By making this statement, you are informing your users about your dedication to ensuring that your website is accessible to all individuals and describing your actions to accomplish this objective.

If you aren’t using WordPress, there’s nothing to worry about. UserWay has installation instructions via its website.

Plans and pricing

UserWay's pricing is based on the monthly page views a website receives. The pricing plan offers two options: the first is for websites that receive under 100,000 page views per month, with an annual fee of $490. The second option is for websites receiving up to 1 million page views per month, which has a yearly cost of $1,490. Custom pricing is available if your website receives more than 1 million page views per month.

While the starting price of UserWay is under $41 per month, it's important to note that the prices are per website. This means that the cost can add up quickly if you have multiple websites that require compliance. Additionally, prices increase significantly as you add extra features such as accessibility scanning and audits. However, UserWay offers bundles that can slightly reduce the prices.

Luckily, UserWay offers a 10-day free trial, allowing you to test the solution for your organization.

Final verdict

UserWay is a powerful tool that can enhance website accessibility and improve user experience for individuals with disabilities. By utilizing this solution, website owners can ensure that their websites meet the standards set forth by regulatory bodies like the ADA and WCAG 2.1. This can help make the website more accessible to a wider audience, including users with visual impairments, hearing impairments, and other disabilities. 

In addition to meeting regulatory requirements, having an accessible website can also lead to increased user engagement and potentially reduce legal risks. By making your website accessible to everyone, you can reach a wider audience and potentially increase your customer base. 

Given the benefits of inclusivity and the importance of meeting accessibility standards, opting for UserWay is a decision that many website owners find valuable. With its expertly crafted features and user-friendly interface, UserWay can help make your website more accessible and welcoming to all users, regardless of their abilities.

More from TechRadar Pro

• We've also featured the best AI tools. 
• You will also be interested in our best web accessibility services of the year.