One Clear Winner - Bambu Labs A1 Mini Vs A1 Vs P1S Vs P1P Vs X1

Summary

In this video, Ross compares Bamboo's range of 3D printers, focusing on the A1, P1, and X1 series. He breaks down key differences such as print speed, material compatibility, and features like AMS units, build volume, and UI functionality. While the A1 is great for beginners or casual users, the P1 series offers a more professional setup with advanced options, including better temperature regulation and part cooling. The X1 stands out as the most powerful model, ideal for engineering-grade materials. Ross provides recommendations depending on users' needs and budget, ultimately advising on the best printer for different use cases.

Takeaways

• 😀 The A1 series is a great entry-level 3D printer, ideal for basic PLA prints and beginners who want to keep costs down.
• 😀 CoreXY printers like the P1 and X1 series are faster and more stable compared to the A1 series due to their non-moving beds.
• 😀 The P1 and X1 series are better suited for multi-color printing with their enclosed AMS units that protect filament from moisture.
• 😀 The A1 series supports only one AMS light per printer, while the P1 and X1 series can support up to four AMS units, enabling up to 16 colors.
• 😀 The P1 and X1 series are designed for more professional use, offering features like part cooling fans and chamber temperature regulation for better print quality.
• 😀 The X1 series is particularly suited for engineering-grade materials like ABS, ASA, PA, or PC, thanks to its heated bed and hardened steel nozzle.
• 😀 While the P1 series includes a 720p camera, the X1 features a more powerful 1080p camera for smoother remote monitoring and playback.
• 😀 The X1 also offers wireless file downloads from the SD card through Bamboo Studio, which the P1 series lacks.
• 😀 The X1 features a more advanced UI with a full HD touchscreen, making maintenance and calibration easier compared to the P1 series' more cumbersome interface.
• 😀 The X1 includes a pressure advance feature (LiDAR) that helps with first-layer adhesion and detects print issues early, making it a more reliable choice for serious users.

Q & A

What is the key difference between the A1 series and the P1 and X1 series printers?

The main difference lies in the printing mechanism. The A1 series uses a traditional bed-slinging design, while the P1 and X1 series feature a core XY design, which results in faster and more stable prints, especially for larger or complex models.

Why is the A1 series more affordable compared to the P1 and X1 series?

The A1 series is more affordable due to its simpler design and fewer advanced features. It is aimed at hobbyists and beginner users who primarily need to print with basic materials like PLA.

What is the AMS system, and how does it differ between the A1 series and the P1/X1 series?

The AMS (Automatic Material System) helps manage filament, particularly moisture-sensitive ones. The A1 series uses the AMS light, which lacks moisture control features. In contrast, the P1 and X1 series use enclosed AMS units with desiccants to protect filament from moisture, which is essential for more advanced printing materials.

How does the user interface differ between the P1 and X1 models?

The P1 series has a monochrome display with physical buttons, making it less user-friendly. The X1 series, on the other hand, features a full HD capacitive touchscreen, providing a more intuitive and functional user experience.

What is the significance of the integrated part cooling and temperature regulation fans in the P1 and X1 series?

The part cooling and temperature regulation fans help improve print quality, especially with materials like ABS, ASA, and PA. They ensure the print environment remains stable, preventing print failure caused by temperature fluctuations, which is crucial for these engineering-grade materials.

Is the X1 series suitable for beginners, or is it aimed at advanced users?

The X1 series is designed for more advanced users, especially those working with engineering-grade materials like reinforced plastics or carbon fiber. Its advanced features and higher price point make it more suited for professional or high-end hobbyist users.

What material types does the X1 series support that the P1 series cannot?

The X1 series supports higher temperature materials like ABS, ASA, PA, and carbon fiber-reinforced filaments, thanks to its heated bed and hardened steel nozzle. The P1 series is more limited and better suited for printing with PLA and other basic materials.

What is the purpose of the pressure sensor on the X1, and how is it used?

The pressure sensor on the X1 is used to measure the filament flow before starting a print. While it’s often referred to as a gimmick, it’s actually useful in detecting first-layer adhesion issues, alerting users to potential problems before the print begins.

How does the camera on the X1 compare to the P1 series?

The X1 features a full HD 1080p camera, providing smoother, higher-quality video and better remote viewing. The P1 series only has a 720p camera, which can result in stuttery video playback and lower-quality visuals during remote monitoring.

What factors should a user consider when deciding between the P1P and P1S models?

Users should consider features like the P1S’s more professional appearance, better part cooling, and full HD touchscreen. If these are important, the P1S is a better choice. However, the P1P may be more cost-effective for users who don’t require the premium features offered by the P1S.