Bambulab A1
by Bambulab
Introducing the Bambu A1, an affordable and feature-rich 3D printer designed for budget-conscious users. Boasting a sturdy assembly with a vertical gantry, the A1 ensures optimal performance through self-tests, including motor calibration and noise cancellation. Its exceptional print quality, especially with PLA, is marked by consistently smooth and precise layers. The Active Material System (AMS) simplifies multi-material printing, enhancing user convenience. The printer showcases precision without delving into specific tests, emphasizing its versatile performance. While concerns about top-heavy prints are acknowledged, the A1 delivers admirably in diverse printing scenarios. Highlighting the AMS's capacity for accommodating four spools and enabling seamless on-the-fly extruder changes, the A1 offers unparalleled filament management. Experience the A1's impressive performance, superior print quality, and user-friendly features for a seamless 3D printing journey. Invest in innovation with the Bambu A1 – your gateway to affordable excellence in 3D printing.
| price : | 450 € |
| release date : | 12/2023 (16 months ago) |
Specifications
| weight | 8.3kg |
| build volume | 256mm x 256mm x 256mm |
| connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| machine size | width: 410mm x depth:385mm x height: 430mm |
| has heated bed | true |
| max print speed | 500mm/s |
| extrusion system | simple |
| filament feeding | direct |
| layer resolution | from: - to: |
| filament diameter | 1.75mm |
| supported materials | standard, hight_temperature |
| max extruder temperature | 300°C |
| max print bed temperature | 100°C |
Reviews
Design and Build Quality
The Bambu Lab A1 presents a clean and sturdy design that stands out in its category. Its frame, combining extruded aluminum and sheet metal, contributes to a rigid construction that handles high-speed printing with ease. This printer manages to adopt a size that supports a significant build volume of 256 mm on all axes, aligning with its CoreXY siblings. It differentiates itself with a metal roller system for the Y-axis and a linear rail for the X-axis, encapsulated to mitigate dust and dirt exposure, enhancing longevity and reliability.
Setup and Ease of Use
Though requiring more assembly compared to its mini variant, setting up the A1 is straightforward, with clear instructions that make it accessible to beginners. Its automated calibration systems, including vibration calibration and noise cancellation, streamline the preparation for printing, ensuring optimal performance. The direct extruder print head, shared with the A1 Mini, features practical elements like a quick nozzle change, indicating Bambu Lab's consideration for user convenience.
Print Quality and Speed
The A1 impresses with its ability to deliver high-quality prints at speeds comparable to more expensive machines. With features like automatic input shaping and pressure advance calibration, it achieves fine detail and smooth surfaces, even at high printing speeds. The inclusion of a second-generation textured PEI sheet enhances adhesion and leaves an appealing texture on the bottom of prints, although the bed's maximum temperature of 80°C limits material compatibility mainly to PLA, PETG, TPU, and PVA.
Multi-Color Printing Capability
One of the A1's highlighted features is its capability for multi-color printing with the accompanying AMS Lite unit. This system enables the creation of multi-color parts with remarkable reliability and print quality. However, a notable downside is the amount of filament wasted during color transitions, which could be a consideration for those looking to minimize waste. Despite this, the multi-color performance of the A1 is lauded for its ease of use and the stunning detail it can achieve.
Software and Connectivity
Equipped with built-in WiFi and the option for cloud-based operation, the A1 is tailored for convenience in file management and remote monitoring. Its integration with Bambu Studio offers a seamless, user-friendly slicing experience, with automatic updates ensuring continuous improvements. However, the proprietary nature of the firmware and lack of open-source hardware could be a drawback for users interested in customization and hands-on troubleshooting.
Price to Performance Ratio
Considering its competitive pricing, the A1 provides an attractive price-to-performance ratio. Its robust build quality, notable print speeds, and remarkable ease of use position it as an appealing option for hobbyists and beginners alike. Although it doesn't entirely eclipse the more advanced features of Bambu Lab's CoreXY models, it stands as a compelling choice for those whose primary printing materials include PLA and PETG, offering a well-rounded printing experience at its price point.
Final Thoughts
The Bambu Lab A1 marks a significant entry into the bed slinger printer market, balancing speed, quality, and ease of use in a competitively priced package. While it shines in its designated roles, particularly with PLA and PETG materials, its limited bed temperature and proprietary system components may not satisfy all users, especially those looking for open-source compatibility or intending to print with high-temperature materials. Nevertheless, its performance in multi-color printing and overall reliability make it a worthy consideration for users seeking an advanced yet accessible 3D printing solution.