Prusa XL Review - Worth the wait?

Overview and Initial Impressions

The Prusa XL, a highly anticipated 3D printer, has finally made its way to us after a long wait of over a year. The unboxing reveals a printer that is mostly assembled, requiring the installation of the extruder head. The build quality is noted for its robustness, with less reliance on 3D printed parts and a more substantial use of metal components, which promises improved stability and print quality. The printer's design is perceived as sleek, evoking comparisons to higher-end models previously experienced by the reviewer.

Setup and Test Prints

After setting up the printer, which includes installing the tool head and loading the filament, the first test prints undertaken were benchmarks like the Benchy boat model to assess print quality. The Prusa XL's extruder head sees a significant upgrade, which raised initial concerns about maintenance complexity; however, the resultant prints were described as exceptional. The use of a 0.6 nozzle over the more common 0.4 nozzle did not detract from print detail, indicating a quality build of the printer. Large and complex prints were handled with ease, showcasing the Prusa XL's ability to produce high-quality prints across different sizes and complexities.

Printing Experience and Performance

The printer's large bed size was praised for its ability to accommodate big or multiple prints simultaneously, enhancing productivity. The quality of both large objects and finer details was consistently high, with the first layers especially noted for their excellent adhesion and smoothness without the need for adhesives or adjustments. Through various test prints, including challenging overhangs and intricate details, the Prusa XL proved itself capable of delivering superior results straight out of the box, requiring no additional calibration.

Advanced Features and Capabilities

The discussion touched upon upcoming features like input shaping, which promises to further enhance the printer's speed, a critical aspect for those looking to use the printer in a production setting. The ease of use and reliability were highlighted as significant advantages, emphasizing the importance of not just technical specifications but also how user-friendly and dependable the printer is for regular use.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Despite the initial skepticism due to the lengthy wait for delivery, the Prusa XL has surpassed expectations in nearly every aspect. Its construction, ease of use, and print quality, even with a standard single extruder, have made it a standout printer for the reviewer. However, a minor drawback mentioned was the absence of a built-in camera for print monitoring. Still, the overall verdict places the Prusa XL as a top recommendation for anyone in the 3D printing market, thanks to its exceptional performance and reliability demonstrated during the review period.