This 3D Printer is HUGE and FAST | Qidi X-Max 3 Review

Review: Chey XMax 3 3D Printer

The Chey XMax 3 emerges as an imposing presence within the realm of 3D printers, boasting a blend of size, speed, and a gamut of unique features at a competitive cost. Designed for enthusiasts and professionals alike, the XMax 3 presents itself as a substantial unit, both in terms of its physical dimensions and its capabilities.

Unboxing and Setup

Right from the start, the unboxing experience underscores the printer's considerable size and weight—a factor that potential users should account for. The packaging is secure and methodical, with accessories neatly organized within the top styrofoam portion, diverging from the standard practice of enclosing them in a separate box. This initial interaction hints at the thoughtfulness Chey has put into the product's presentation and user experience.

Design and Features

The XMax 3's construction is predominantly plastic, encompassing the body, top cover, and front door. This choice of materials likely contributes to its more accessible price point when compared to other high-end printers sporting glass elements. The printer comes almost fully assembled, with minimal setup required, simplifying the process for the user. Included among the accessories are a standard power plug, a full 500g spool of PLA filament—a generous provision—and an innovative spool holder dry box. This dry box, designed to condition and feed filament directly into the printer, underscores Chey's commitment to enhancing the printing experience and maintaining filament quality.

Functionality and Performance

The printer boasts an impressive build volume and is touted as one of the fastest in its category, with a maximum print speed and acceleration that are impressive on paper. The actively heated enclosed print chamber is a standout feature, elevating the XMax 3’s capabilities to maintain consistent temperatures for various materials. Furthermore, the machine operates on Clipper firmware, backed by a powerful processor and ample storage, facilitating smooth and reliable printing operations.

In practice, the printer requires some adjustments and configurations for optimal performance, especially when printing with different filament types. Users may find the need to employ a glue stick for better bed adhesion with certain prints, a minor inconvenience in the broader context of the printer’s capabilities. Test prints conducted with both the provided PLA and third-party multicolor filament revealed high-quality results, showcasing the XMax 3's versatility and effectiveness in handling diverse printing tasks.

Conclusion

The Chey XMax 3 positions itself as a formidable contender within the 3D printing landscape, distinguished by its substantial build volume, swift printing speeds, and the thoughtful inclusion of a filament dry box among other features. While it may lack some of the luxuries of pricier models, such as built-in cameras or automated filament systems, it holds its own through its competitive pricing and performance. Suitable for a wide range of printing projects, from hobbyist endeavors to professional-grade prototypes, the XMax 3 offers a compelling combination of features, making it an attractive option for individuals in search of quality, versatility, and value.