| Document and Entity Information Document | Nov. 05, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Nov. 5, 2020 |
| Entity Registrant Name | 3D SYSTEMS CORP |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000910638 |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 001-34220 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 95-4431352 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 333 Three D Systems Circle |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Rock Hill |
| Entity Address, State or Province | SC |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 29730 |
| City Area Code | 803 |
| Local Phone Number | 326-3900 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common stock, $0.001 per share |
| Trading Symbol | DDD |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
