500mm/s Bambu Lab P1P 3D printer: Another atomic bomb to the 3D printing industry, In-depth review

Introduction

The Bamboo Lab P1P printer emerges as a simplified and more affordable iteration following the impact of their flagship X1 Carbon model on the 3D printing industry. The P1P maintains several core features of its predecessor, such as the core XY kinematic system, linear rods, carbon rod on the X-axis, and an identical extruder and hot end capable of reaching temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius. It aims to offer a fast, high-quality printing experience at a lower price point, primarily targeting PLA, PETG, and TPU materials.

Hardware and Design

Sharing its hardware DNA with the X1, the Bamboo Lab P1P supports WiFi, or rather cloud printing, through Bamboo Studio slicer for convenient print jobs management. Despite its affordability, some premium features found in the X1, including the enclosure, advanced calibration tools, color touchscreen, and certain auxiliary components, are either removed or made optional to keep the costs down. The P1P comes fully assembled, minimizing the setup process for users.

Printing Performance

The P1P demonstrates commendable printing speed and quality, with minor adjustments needed for optimal bed adhesion. The printer is tested across various materials, from standard PLA to more challenging filaments like ABS and polycarbonate, showcasing its versatility. While the lack of an enclosure and some calibration features might affect printing with materials that require stable temperatures, its performance with more common filament types and complex models indicates the P1P is a capable machine within its price range.

User Experience

Users benefit from a streamlined setup and printing process, aided by features like automatic nozzle cleaning and consistent bed leveling, which enhance reliability and ease of use. Cloud printing through Bamboo Studio slicer adds convenience, though the P1P does exhibit some limitations in filament loading and preparation time before printing starts. Despite these minor inconveniences, the overall user experience is positive, emphasizing speed and quality.

Pros and Cons

The Bamboo Lab P1P excels in speed and quality, delivering fast prints without compromising on the detail or accuracy of the models. Its compact design and robust construction, along with effective bed adhesion mechanisms and result-oriented slicer software, make it a strong contender in its category. However, the absence of an included enclosure and some advanced features may limit its utility for certain advanced materials or applications. Furthermore, the reliance on optional upgrades for full functionality can increase the overall investment required to match the performance of higher-end models.

Conclusion

The Bamboo Lab P1P positions itself as a compelling option for hobbyists and enthusiasts looking for a high-speed, quality 3D printing solution without the higher costs associated with top-tier models. While it scales back on some features to achieve its accessible price point, it doesn't significantly compromise on the core aspects of 3D printing that users value. Whether the P1P or its more endowed sibling, the X1, represents the better investment may depend on specific user needs and preferences, particularly regarding material versatility and desired feature set.