The Bambu Labs A1 Mini: The Ultimate 3D Printer for beginners?

Summary

In this review, the presenter explores the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer, a popular choice among beginners. With a sale price of $200, the printer boasts features like auto calibration, motor noise cancellation, and a user-friendly interface. The unboxing experience reveals a nearly pre-assembled machine, and the setup process is straightforward, requiring minimal tools. The printer's performance is tested with a quick print job, demonstrating its speed and ease of use. Additionally, the video showcases the Bamboo Labs app, which simplifies the printing process further. The presenter concludes that the A1 Mini lives up to its reputation as an excellent starter printer, offering both simplicity for beginners and advanced options for those looking to delve deeper into 3D printing.

Takeaways

• 🎉 The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer recently went on sale for $200 for their second year anniversary.
• 🖨️ The A1 Mini is marketed as a highly beginner-friendly 3D printer that can be used right out of the box.
• 🔧 The printer comes almost entirely pre-assembled, requiring minimal setup with just a few screws to remove and tighten.
• 📐 It features full auto calibration, active flow rate compensation, and active motor noise canceling, with a build plate volume of 180x180x180 mm.
• 🌡️ The max build plate temperature is 80°C, making it suitable for most common filaments.
• 📱 The printer has a touch screen interface that guides users through setup and calibration, making it highly accessible for beginners.
• 🔄 The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini also supports an app that allows users to select print jobs, monitor progress, and adjust settings remotely.
• 💡 It includes features like motor noise cancellation, vibration compensation, and auto leveling, which simplify the printing process.
• ⚙️ The printer offers a variety of settings for more advanced users through the Bamboo Lab Studio app, allowing for detailed customization of prints.
• 👍 Overall, the A1 Mini is highly praised for its ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginners looking to start 3D printing.

Q & A

What is the price of the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer during the second-year anniversary sale?

The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer was on sale for $200 during the Bamboo Lab second-year anniversary.

Why did the reviewer decide to pick up the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini?

The reviewer decided to pick up the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini to determine if it is a good beginner 3D printer, especially since they are a beginner in 3D printing.

What are some of the key features of the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini according to the Bamboo Lab website?

Key features include full auto calibration, active flow rate compensation, active motor noise cancelling, high-speed precision, and a build plate volume of 180x180x180 mm.

What nozzle sizes does the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini come with, and what are they used for?

The printer comes with a 0.4 mm nozzle, but it can be swapped for a 0.2 mm nozzle for more detail or a 0.6 mm or 0.8 mm nozzle for thicker, stronger lines.

What is the maximum build plate temperature of the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini?

The maximum build plate temperature of the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is 80° C.

How was the assembly process for the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini described by the reviewer?

The assembly process was described as very straightforward, with the printer being almost entirely pre-assembled. The reviewer mentioned needing to remove a few screws to unlock the Z-axis limiter and tighten some screws.

What was the reviewer's initial reaction upon powering on the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini?

The reviewer was pleased and noted that the printer came to life and started calibration, including motor noise cancellation, vibration compensation, and auto leveling.

Did the reviewer find the process of loading filament intuitive?

The reviewer found the process of loading filament intuitive, noting that the touch screen guided them through the process despite the initial lack of instructions in the quick start guide.

How did the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini perform during the reviewer's first print?

The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini performed impressively during the reviewer's first print, completing a 15-minute print quickly and demonstrating high speed and efficiency.

What additional software does Bamboo Labs offer for more advanced 3D printing?

Bamboo Labs offers the Bamboo Lab Studio app, which is available for Windows and Mac. It allows users to create multiple build plates, view individual layers, and adjust a wide range of settings for more advanced 3D printing.

How did the reviewer rate the user-friendliness of the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini?

The reviewer rated the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini as extremely user-friendly, stating that it walks users through everything and is very easy to use straight out of the box.

What conclusion did the reviewer come to regarding the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini as a beginner 3D printer?

The reviewer concluded that the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is indeed as good a beginner 3D printer as everyone says. They found it filled with features, very user-friendly, and highly recommend it for beginners.

Outlines

00:00

🖨️ Introduction and Unboxing of Bamboo Labs A1 Mini

The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is being reviewed to see if it lives up to its reputation as a top beginner 3D printer. The reviewer, a novice in 3D printing, is unboxing and setting up the printer. The A1 Mini was bought for $200 during Bamboo Labs' anniversary sale. The printer is praised for its user-friendly design and minimal setup requirements. Initial impressions are positive, with the machine appearing mostly pre-assembled and featuring easy-to-follow setup instructions.

05:01

🔧 Loading Filament and First Print

The reviewer attempts to load filament into the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini. Despite the absence of specific instructions for the AMS system, the printer's screen guides through the process efficiently. The reviewer successfully loads the filament and starts a test print of a Beni, noting the printer's impressive speed and ease of use. The first print is completed in about 15 minutes, showcasing the printer's capability and beginner-friendly design.

10:02

📱 Using the Bamboo Labs App and Advanced Features

The reviewer tests the Bamboo Labs app, finding it straightforward and efficient for starting prints without needing SD cards or USB drives. The app allows detailed print setup, including bed leveling and filament selection. The reviewer also explores the Bamboo Lab Studio app, which offers extensive customization options for advanced users. Despite these advanced features, the A1 Mini remains accessible for beginners, making it a versatile choice for all skill levels.

🎉 Final Thoughts and Recommendation

The reviewer concludes that the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is indeed a highly recommended beginner 3D printer. The ease of setup, automatic calibration, and user-friendly interface are highlighted as key strengths. The reviewer is impressed with the printer's performance and encourages those new to 3D printing to consider the A1 Mini. An update on the printer's performance will be provided in a few months after further use.

Keywords

💡Bamboo Labs A1 Mini

The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is a 3D printer that is highly recommended for beginners due to its user-friendly features and ease of use. The speaker describes it as a machine that can be used straight out of the box without any complex setup, making it ideal for those new to 3D printing. This specific model is highlighted as being affordable, priced at $200 during a sale, and equipped with features that simplify the printing process for beginners.

💡Beginner 3D Printer

A beginner 3D printer is designed to be accessible and easy to use for individuals who are new to 3D printing. The video emphasizes the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini as a great beginner option, due to its straightforward setup, automatic calibration, and intuitive interface. The speaker identifies as a beginner, seeking a printer that requires minimal technical knowledge and offers an easy learning curve, which this printer provides.

💡User-Friendly

User-friendly products are designed to be easy to use and understand, often featuring simple interfaces and clear instructions. In the video, the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is repeatedly praised for its user-friendly design, which includes full auto-calibration, a touchscreen interface, and an easy setup process. This user-friendliness is a major selling point for beginners who may be intimidated by more complex machines.

💡Auto Calibration

Auto calibration refers to the printer's ability to automatically adjust its settings to ensure accurate and high-quality prints. The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini includes this feature, eliminating the need for manual calibration, which can be complex and challenging for beginners. The video notes that the printer handles tasks like motor noise cancellation and vibration compensation automatically, allowing users to start printing quickly and with minimal hassle.

💡Filament

Filament is the material used by 3D printers to create objects, typically made from plastic like PLA or ABS. In the video, the speaker mentions using a white filament from a previous printer to test the Bamboo Labs A1 Mini, highlighting its compatibility with various filaments. The printer's ability to work with different types of filament, including those from other brands, adds to its versatility and appeal for beginners exploring different printing projects.

💡Multicolor Printing

Multicolor printing is a feature that allows a 3D printer to use multiple colors of filament in a single print, producing more complex and visually interesting objects. The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini can be paired with an AMS (Automatic Material System) to enable multicolor printing, though the speaker chose the more affordable single-color option. This feature is an added benefit for users looking to expand their creativity and experiment with more advanced printing techniques.

💡Build Plate Volume

Build plate volume refers to the maximum size of an object that can be printed by the 3D printer, usually measured in millimeters. The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini has a build plate volume of 180x180x180 mm, providing a reasonable space for various projects. Understanding the build volume is crucial for users to know the limitations and possibilities of the printer, especially when planning more complex designs.

💡Touchscreen Interface

A touchscreen interface is a display that allows users to interact with the device by touching the screen, often simplifying navigation and operation. The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini features a touchscreen that guides users through setup and printing processes, enhancing its user-friendliness. This interface is particularly beneficial for beginners, as it provides clear instructions and easy access to printer settings without needing extensive technical knowledge.

💡Print Speed

Print speed refers to how quickly a 3D printer can produce an object, often measured in millimeters per second. The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini is noted for its impressive speed, completing a print in about 15 minutes. The fast print speed is highlighted in the video as a significant advantage, allowing users to complete projects quickly and efficiently, which is especially appealing for beginners who want to see results without long waits.

💡Bamboo Labs App

The Bamboo Labs App is a mobile application that allows users to control and manage their 3D printing projects from their phones. In the video, the speaker demonstrates using the app to start a print job, emphasizing its convenience and ease of use. The app eliminates the need for physical media like SD cards or USB drives, streamlining the printing process and providing additional features such as project management and printer status updates, which enhance the overall user experience.

💡Bamboo Lab Studio App

The Bamboo Lab Studio App is a software program available for Windows and Mac that provides advanced features for 3D printing enthusiasts. It allows users to create and manage multiple build plates, customize settings, and delve deeper into the intricacies of 3D printing. In the video, the app is praised for its extensive options, catering to those who want to explore more advanced aspects of printing, while still maintaining a basic mode for beginners. This flexibility makes the printer suitable for users of all skill levels, offering opportunities for growth and experimentation.

Highlights

The Bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer is often recommended as a great beginner printer.

The printer recently went on sale for $200 for Bamboo Lab's second-year anniversary.

The reviewer is a beginner in 3D printing and seeks an easy-to-use machine.

The A1 Mini is almost entirely pre-assembled right out of the box.

It includes features such as full auto calibration, active flow rate compensation, and active motor noise cancelling.

The build plate volume is 180x180x180 mm, and it comes with a 0.4 mm nozzle that can be swapped for other sizes.

The max build plate temperature is 80°C, allowing for most common filaments.

Setup involves removing a few screws and attaching parts, which can be slightly tricky.

The touch screen interface guides the user through setup, including Wi-Fi connection and calibration.

Calibration includes motor noise cancellation, vibration compensation, and auto leveling.

The printer provides clear guidance on loading filament, even if the AMS system is not used.

The reviewer successfully printed a Benchy in about 15 minutes, showcasing the printer's speed and ease of use.

The Bamboo Labs app allows for remote printing without the need for SD cards or USB drives.

Users can use the Bamboo Lab Studio app to access advanced settings and controls for more detailed printing projects.

The reviewer confirms that the A1 Mini is as user-friendly and feature-rich as advertised, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Transcripts

is the bamboo Labs A1 Mini actually a

good beginner printer like everyone says

it is let's find out if you've gone on

YouTube or looked up on Google best

beginner 3D printer lately you're going

to hear about this thing this is the

bamboo Labs A1 Mini 3D printer and it

recently went on sale for $200 for the

bamboo lab second year anniversary and I

thought it was the perfect time to pick

it up and actually decide if this is a

good beginner 3D printer from a beginner

everybody claims that this machine is

awesome it's super user friendly you can

use it right out of the box but all the

people that are saying this have 50

other different printers they can write

their own code tell the printer exactly

how to do what they want they can look

at a print and see what's wrong with it

that's not me I don't know about you I

wish maybe one day but right now that is

not me I am a beginner at 3D printing

and I need the easiest machine possible

to use so let's see if this thing is

actually as good and as user friendly as

everybody says it is this beautiful

piece of Machinery behind me arrived

this morning so let's jump back a couple

of hours unbox this thing and see how

beginner friendly and how quick it

really is to set up so first let's go

through the specs on the bamboo Lab

website now this right here is just the

A1 Mini you can get the AMS combination

which allows you to do multicolor

printing however it is about $150 more I

believe so I decided to go with just the

A1 Mini the most affordable option and

if we go through the specs here they say

it has full auto calibration active flow

rate compensation active motor noise

cancelling high-s speeed Precision this

specific printer the A1 Mini has a build

plate volume of 180x 180x 180 mm the

printer comes with A4 mm nozzle however

you can swap it out for a02 for more

detail 6 or A8 for some more of those

thicker stronger lines if that's what

you're looking for the max build plate

temperature is 80° C which allows you to

print most of your common filaments all

right now we got all that out of the way

let's get this thing open and see how it

works so here it is straight out of the

box right here it looks like it is

almost entirely pre-assembled which is

awesome that screen does look a little

bit Dusty I think that might have been

my fault because of the way I unboxed it

but so far this thing looks

awesome remove the four screws to unlock

the zaxis limiter all right we need a

screwdriver so I will say these screws

are slightly tricky to get to I had to

ditch this big old thing for a little

smaller allen wrench just to kind of get

in there but no big deal so I just got

that last screw out and this piece just

comes right off and tighten the three

screws circled in green this one is also

kind of hard to get to but one nice

thing is it uses the same exact size

Allen key the 2 mm so that's cool looks

like we just slide it right

on just like that and would you look at

that there's the Allen keys that you

need to do this which you know what if I

would have looked in here first I would

have seen that which would have been

kind of nice this packaging is so good

if you look at that it says right on

there for Purge wiper so I ended up

flipping it on its side just to get that

screw in there made it a whole lot

easier spool holder

installation so let's grab that spool

holder add this on

there just like

that

awesome all right now it's time to plug

this thing in and see if it comes to

life nothing happened oh there's a power

switch on the back

all right let's try

again okay I heard

it there it

is it's

alive

whoa yelling at me too so if we start

this little nice touch screen here it's

going to ask for the language region and

connect to Wi-Fi so I'm going to set

that up real quick and if we look at the

screen here it is uh starting

calibration so it says first it's going

to do motor noise cancellation vibration

compensation then autoed leveling so

click Start on that oh it's

moving I guess I'll just

uh sit back and let it do its

thing all right take a look at that we

got calibration completed cool let's get

this thing loaded up with some

filament and see what happens now like I

said I ordered the bamboo Labs filament

it's just not here yet it is uh I don't

really know where it is actually but

like I said before I do have that old 3D

printer that I've been trying to get to

work and just can't so I do have a

little bit of this

ELO matte white filament here I believe

it's supposed to go like

this and then through here that I

believe is your filament runout

sensor now my next question is this is

for the AMS system which I don't have so

I don't really know which one I'm

supposed to uh use let me see if I can

find out so it actually does not say in

that quick start guide how to load the

filament however I was just messing with

the screen here and I found a spot where

it says load external spool

honestly I don't think it gets more

beginner friendly than this it literally

guides you exactly through how to do

everything now the filament's popping

out there I don't know why that took so

long for me to notice press

done

whoa it just shot it out cool all right

I just told it

to nice I just told it to print a uh a

Beni here so says it'll take about 20

minutes and we'll see what happens all

right I just started Printing and this

thing is going insanely

fast I don't know if um I set the speed

to that or if I was supposed to change

the speed but this thing is moving I so

impressed I don't think it gets any more

beginner friendly than this literally

Straight Out of the Box what was it take

out four screws install one screw and

that's it that's it this thing is

printed in in about 15

minutes I mean I don't know if you can

tell how just insanely fast this thing

is printing but there it is about 15

minutes to print this right here that is

insane

wow I don't know if you can tell how

impressed I am with

this the next thing I wanted to test out

was was the bamboo Labs app so I found a

a cool tolerance test that I wanted to

print on the app here it tells me it's

going to take 40 minutes and 19 G of

filament right here then you pick your

printer your bed plate pick your

filament so I'm going to be using

external spool and then again it's going

to have me go through and pick that it

is generic

pla how many copies you want if you want

bed leveling flow calibr ation and a

time lapse anything like that and click

Start print says sending print job and

let's see how well this works and just

like that it is already moving no SD

cards no USB drives you don't have to go

to a computer to do it oh wait just

kidding

0.1 works but it's uh you just have to

break it free a little bit

05 I'm looking at it there's no way if

you want to get more in- depth with your

3D printing you absolutely can with this

printer you can download the bamboo Lab

Studio app I guess you could call it

program it's available for Windows and

Mac and you can create multiple

different build plates so you can

prepare whatever project you're working

on you can go through and you can see

every single individual layer that this

printer is going to print it's actually

pretty remarkable the amount of things

that you can do with this program if you

really want to you can change any

setting that you want to over here

literally anything speed support

strength and it's all just tons and tons

and tons of different options to get the

printer to do anything that you need now

you can definitely get into the woods

with a lot of this stuff and kind of get

lost in it or you can simply just go

back to the basic mode right here and

you have just your basic options your

basic settings but I think it's really

awesome that bamboo Labs gives you the

option to really get in depth with your

3D printing if you want to or you can

simply stick to the app on the phone and

send over projects that have already

been made I just think it's really cool

that you have the option to progress

with this printer if you feel like it is

the bamboo Labs A1 Mini actually as good

as a starter printer as everybody says

it is

yes but seriously this printer is filled

with a ton of features and options and

all of it is super super user friendly

it walks you through everything on that

screen I don't think I could come up

with any more features that I would like

to see in a beginner printer as a

beginner myself I'm on my third print

right now in the past hour this thing is

super easy I didn't have to calibrate

anything it did it all for me completely

on its own it walks you through

everything I don't think it could get

any more beginner friendly than that

honestly all of those YouTube videos all

those articles the website how it says

it's the number one one beginner 3D

printer they're all right 100% they are

all correct if you are looking to get

into the 3D printing game you want to

make some money out of it you want to do

it as a hobby you like designing things

whatever and you don't know where to

start let me recommend this printer to

you right here the A1 Mini is awesome I

love it I've had it for only a couple

hours and I love it and I hope you guys

will too and thank you so much for

checking out this video I'll be giving

you guys an update video on this machine

in a couple of months when I've actually

gotten to use it a lot more and gotten a

little bit better at 3D printing but

anyways that's it for now