Creality K1 / K1 MAX – 3D Print QUALITY REVIEW (vs BambuLab X1C)

Overview

The Creality K1 and K1 MAX printers, along with the Bambu Lab’s X1C, were put through a series of detailed tests to evaluate their print quality performance. Additionally, the K1 and K1 MAX were examined for their updated versions in both hardware and firmware, noting their shipping in secure plywood crates by Creality, which underscores the effort made towards delivering a robust product.

Performance Benchmarks

Through rigorous testing, it was found that the K1 and K1 MAX printers do not necessarily live up to the high expectations set by their marketing claims, particularly in terms of their extrusion capabilities. Neither printer achieved the extrusion volumes boasted, capping at around 20 cubic millimeters per second, a figure echoed by the Bambu Lab X1C when tested under similar conditions. This reveals a common limitation across these devices in handling high extrusion volumes efficiently.

Cooling and Noise Levels

Cooling tests revealed issues with fan duct design on the K1, which affected cooling performance unevenly across different sides of a print. Despite these challenges, activating auxiliary fans helped achieve perfect prints on both K1 models. Nonetheless, Bambu Lab’s X1C outperforms the K1 series in cooling efficiency while also maintaining lower noise levels, making it a quieter option for enclosed printing conditions.

Print Quality Concerns

Issues such as inconsistent extrusion and inaccuracies in first-layer printing were noted with the K1 and K1 MAX, while the X1C showed better results in these areas. The K1 series also displayed ghosting artifacts despite utilizing Klipper's input shaping, hinting at fundamental challenges in their motion system that could not be entirely mitigated by software solutions.

Design and Usability

Several design choices in the K1 series raised concerns, including the use of graphite-impregnated bushings over ball bearings, and the presence of gaps that could leak hot air and smells from the print chamber. These elements suggest areas where improvements could enhance usability and performance. Despite these challenges, Creality's design decisions also showed some advantages, such as avoiding grease on the print plate due to better leadscrew positioning.

Conclusion and Potential

Despite showcasing good-looking prints, both the K1 and K1 MAX printers face challenges that impact their practical printing performance, notably when precision and consistency are required. While the K1 offers a potentially cost-effective option for those seeking a budget CoreXY printer capable of running Klipper, its current price-to-performance ratio raises questions. On the other hand, the K1 MAX, positioned at a higher price point, struggles to justify its cost given the comparative performance and features of alternatives like the P1S from Bambu Lab.

Ultimately, the Creality K1 series printers demonstrate potential, but also underline the necessity for ongoing development and refinement. With attention to the outlined issues and a commitment to iterative improvements, there is an opportunity for these printers to better meet the needs of users looking for reliable, high-quality 3D printing options.