Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core  

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Hi,

I was convinced with this film:

(sorry, it's in Polish). This guy presented two Pusa MK4 devices after one year of heavy printing, both over 100 days of print time. One of them printed with nylon only. The main points:

- Prusa deals great with nylon

- no problems and failures in comparison with Bambu (the print farm is composed of four Prusa and several Bambu printers).

- Prusa is much more silent than Bambu.

Thant's why I decided to replace my Ender 3V3 KE with Prusa, I need reliable and silent printer allowing me hassle free print. I need time to design new products, not to solve printing issues. Ant the argument on the noise level excluded Bambu from my list. I already ordered my Core One, here are my expectations, in a few weeks I will compare them with reality: https://reinvented.tech/en_US/n/Prusa-Core-One-why-will-it-replace-my-Creality-Ender-3-V3-KE/14

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Well, Bambu Vs Prusa Core, I guess this is a question without an answer yet, that is, Core One is not released, so how to really compare them?.

So, then, let try MK4S vs Bambu, well I didn't have a Bambulab printer, so I didn't have an opinion on Bambulabs. 

But I have some other printers and some Prusa's, a little little farm of printers.

And of those Prusa is my first choice, and just because of reliability, just as an example, I leave one Prusa Mini in a desk for monthes just getting dirty. 

One day I had to print a bunch of small pieces, al other printers were working and was time for a revival for the Mini's. Just blow the dust, turn on the printer, load filament, and there it goes, printing flawlesly without any faults or issues. 

I get tired about calibrations, warping, stringing and other problems from time to time with printers that has not realibility at all, and can't work longer than 200 hours without maintenance. 

Maybe if you're just a 3d printing hobbyest is OK, but if you need production and reliability, then Prusa by now is my choice.

So in my experience if you're planning to print some models in time to time, just a hobby, there are a lot of options and a learning curve before going to a Prusa. 

I remember myself years ago when I by my first Ender V3 and think why to spent a lot of money in a Prusa or other high quality printer for the price where I can buy 5 Ender's.... well after a while you learn why, but no one can tell you that, you have to go on your own experience, and 3d printing it is just not plug and play.

Best regards.

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

My question is similar:  I am considering a Core One, but the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon seems more attractive, and I don't have to wait until some time in June (or later).  My thoughts on Prusa aren't good.  Email queries aren't answered to at least 2 days, and chat is up to an hour.  I have both an XL and an MK4, both of which I run using Octoprint.  I got the MK4 as a kit, and the XL as a partial kit, and I am not very impressed by the quality.  I think Prusa is slipping on quality.  I have replaced one of the Nextruders on the XL as well as the load cell on another Nextruder.  On the MK4, I received a bad load cell as well as a bad planetary for the Nextruder.  I still have a bad side filament out sensor on the XL, but since I have rebuilt the filament path on the XL, I don't need the side sensor.  The current filament path on the XL is an abomination.  The PTFE guide tubes (NOT BOWDEN) are a PITA and are a convoluted mess.  The two filament out sensors on the XL are just silly.

I am not impressed with Prusa's manufacturing, and shipping costs to the US are outrageous.

I need a third printer for a different location.  I print mostly PETG and PC+CF, and occasionally PLA.  I don't do multicolor printing.

I am looking for advice on purchasing a Core One or a Bambu Lab X1-Carbon.   I can watch for sales at Microcenter.

Any advice?

Steve

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Posted by: @steve-4

My question is similar:  I am considering a Core One, but the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon seems more attractive, and I don't have to wait until some time in June (or later).  My thoughts on Prusa aren't good.  Email queries aren't answered to at least 2 days, and chat is up to an hour.  I have both an XL and an MK4, both of which I run using Octoprint.  I got the MK4 as a kit, and the XL as a partial kit, and I am not very impressed by the quality.  I think Prusa is slipping on quality.  I have replaced one of the Nextruders on the XL as well as the load cell on another Nextruder.  On the MK4, I received a bad load cell as well as a bad planetary for the Nextruder.  I still have a bad side filament out sensor on the XL, but since I have rebuilt the filament path on the XL, I don't need the side sensor.  The current filament path on the XL is an abomination.  The PTFE guide tubes (NOT BOWDEN) are a PITA and are a convoluted mess.  The two filament out sensors on the XL are just silly.

I am not impressed with Prusa's manufacturing, and shipping costs to the US are outrageous.

I need a third printer for a different location.  I print mostly PETG and PC+CF, and occasionally PLA.  I don't do multicolor printing.

I am looking for advice on purchasing a Core One or a Bambu Lab X1-Carbon.   I can watch for sales at Microcenter.

Any advice?

Steve

Sounds like you've made up your mind. Enjoy your Bambu..

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Actually, I haven't, which is why I posted my question.  I am concerned with the quality of the Prusa printers (I have an MK4 and an XL), but I need to hear from people who have both.  I have an Obxidian nozzle on one of my XL Nextruders that doesn't print well anymore (I  haven't identified the cause, yet).  I have an Obxidian on the MK4, and that prints fairly well.

I get TPU tangled up in the Nextruder, and have to take the Nextruder apart to get the filament out, so I don't print TPU much anymore.  I don't know how the Bambu prints TPU.  When I had an MK3/S, it printed TPU fine.  It was just a pain dialing in the first layer height.

I don't use PrusaConnect on the MK4.  It runs using Octoprint.  The XL also uses Octoprint.  I have built two Octopi boxes for each printer that has a touch screen so I can control the printers via Octopi.  The Octopi also shuts down the power for the Pi and printer when a print is finished, which is something that PrusaConnect won't do.

Also, I sent Prusa an email query about the Core One on Monday, and I have yet to hear back from them.

Steve 

RE:

I had the same question until i spoke with a bambu lab sales person in the chat. I asked if i was able to print PETG at 0.08mm layer height on the A1 series, and they said yes! But when i told them that i was buying the printer to always print at this level of detail, they said i could better buy another machine from other brands. That was honest, so Prusa it is.

Also, since i live in holland, Bambu (and Anycubic) only provide 1 year of warranty, and when i looked up how many parts from older machines(anycubic, as all bambu machines are relative new) were in stock at their websites, i noticed that many things weren't in stock. So repairing them yourself after warranty might be quite a thing, maybe impossible.

Because Prusa is like 2x as expensive, it was no issue if i had to buy 2x Bambu because they might break sooner. But if they didn't want to guarantee that i could print at 0.08mm all the time, i rather spend much upfront and being able to repair the Prusa for many years (if they keep stock like they do for the 7 year old MK3, only the buddyboard is out of stock, and a nozzle).

That's how i say to myself, an 1060 euro 3d printer is better than a cheaper Bambu lab, not because of brand loyalty but just some facts.

If Bambu did promise i could print 0.08mm layers with PETG AND gave 2 years of warranty, i probably bought a Bambu, due to it being released already, and hopefully lasts longer than 2 years.

RE:

Actually, I haven't, which is why I posted my question.  I am concerned with the quality of the Prusa printers (I have an MK4 and an XL), but I need to hear from people who have both. 

Really not sure what to say here but my XL and my Mk4S's (all running Obxidian nozzles) print just fine. Quality is at least as good as my old Mk3S but much faster. The XL in particular has been a joy. With the Mk4S printers I'm not always happy with the "always perfect" first layer, especially with anything but PLA, but for some non-obvious reason this seems to have improved lately. 

I get TPU tangled up in the Nextruder, and have to take the Nextruder apart to get the filament out, so I don't print TPU much anymore.

Now I must say the Mk4S has been a dream machine with TPU, compared to my Mk3S. In fact, as we speak one of my machines has been printing TPU jobs for two days with zero issues. While I did fine printing TPU with the Mk3S, I had to adjust the idler specifically for TPU. The Mk4S, I never have to change anything. I have not tried to print TPU on my XL though, I have the Mk4S's dedicated to that purpose.

mail queries aren't answered to at least 2 days, and chat is up to an hour

Yeah, this hasn't gotten any better over time, that's true. Looks like the growth of their customer support group didn't keep up with the growth of their customer base.

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

One thing I’ve noticed is that there’s a real lack of feedback from people who have experience with both Prusa and Bambu printers. It would be really helpful to hear from someone who has used both to compare them directly.

Posted by: @steve-4

My question is similar:  I am considering a Core One, but the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon seems more attractive, and I don't have to wait until some time in June (or later). 

....

I'm in a similar situation. I've been thinking for a few weeks about ordering a new printer (I currently have a Prusa Mini+). Since I'm interested in multicolor printing, I initially considered sticking with Prusa. A few weeks ago, they announced the Core One, and now I'm seriously considering placing an order. I can't wait to see some feedback once the first units are shipped. However, the wait for the Core One and the availability of the MMU3 upgrade might be quite long.

I've also come across some publications about Bambu printers in the past, but I never really considered them until now. After doing extensive research on their printers (X1C & P1S, along with the AMS system) and the MMU3 system, I've found great feedback but also many people who weren't satisfied.

I'm particularly concerned about the durability of Bambu Lab printers, their customer service, and the availability of spare parts.

For context, I bought a secondhand Mini+. The previous owner took good care of it and performed regular maintenance. After hundreds of hours of printing, I eventually had issues with the hotend (it needed replacing). But aside from that, everything has been great—this wasn't the case with my Ender 3 before that. This highlights one of Prusa's key strengths: durability.

As you mentioned, having to wait several months is a downside, especially when Bambu printers are already in stock. Their machines might work flawlessly for years, or they could become problematic after just a few months—it’s hard to predict.

I mostly print between October and May, with less activity during the rest of the year due to other hobbies. So now I’m torn: should I take the risk and go for a Bambu printer, even if there’s a chance of being disappointed (despite many happy users), or should I wait a few months for the Core One—or perhaps even for another brand’s announcement...

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

It's not just a decision about the hardware, but also to a large extent about the entire workflow.

What I like about the new CoreOne, and all other Prusa, is that I can easily repair them.If a bearing is defective, I just replace the bearing for a few euros.

In the case of an X1C, where the carbon rods are glued, I have to change the whole unit for 100€. And replacing the part is even more complicated because the Bambulab is optimized for cheap assembly rather than ease of repair.

Nobody knows how long you'll be able to get the part when the successors arrive.Everything has advantages and disadvantages.

How you decide that is up to you.

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

For me Prusa over Bambu is a no-brainer. Prusa is (in my opinion) a very pro-consumer company that I want to support. Repairability, fantastic customer support, they provide upgrade paths between printers (which is unheard of in most companies), reliable, great community, good functional printers. They're made in Europe which is supremely important for me as I don't want all my region's manufacturing to be dependent on far-away countries, so I put my money where my mouth is. I also trust Prusa, they're not requiring always-online features, etc etc. I'm a big curious about RatRig as well, made in Portugal and they've got some really interesting printers. 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I agree with both of you, which is why I'm sticking with Prusa for now. However, it's still interesting to look around and see what other brands are creating and offering even if they're from a galaxy country far, far away. 🤪 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I have a Bambu A1 Combo and a Prusa MK4s with MMU3. 

Both have their Pro's and Cons. 

I use the Bambu for smaller prints where I only need multicolour on the first few layers and the rest is a solid single colour - like coasters or name plates etc. The AMS system is excellent - the way it retracts the filament, so no buffer system needed - it's just a neat solution thats works exceptionally well. 

I use the Prusa with MMU3 for printing actual multicolour models as the wastage is far, far less, and the colour changes etc are much, much quicker. The Bambu cuts the filament each time, so theres a lot left in the nozzle every time theres a colour change, which needs purging, hence the 'poop', whereas Prusa have the better system as it's like a cold pull with every filament change - they should be given more credit for this.

Personally, deep down I prefer the Prusa. It's quieter, faster, and produces excellent quality prints. I will 100% be converting my MK4s to the Core One when I can.

The MMU3 should bolt directly on (with a change to the brackets that hook the unit on to the printer). Prusa have confirmed it is compatible as the electronics etc for the Core One are precisely the same as the MK4s, so I have that built and ready to go straight on. Should make for an awesome setup. I'd much rather the Prusa then a X1C or P1S. Who wants all that filament poop being flung out the back of the printer with a minute or so for each colour change, when the Prusa has no 'poop' and changes filament within a few seconds? I don't!

That doesn't mean I don't like my A1 Combo - it's also a great machine and I love having both options side by side. I'm only a hobbyist and, as stated, which I use generally depends upon the project I'm working on. 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I've seen some 'Auto-Rewind Spool Holders' being used even inside a drybox. They seem to work well, and there's no need for a buffer anymore for the MMU...

Posted by: @iftibashir

I use the Bambu for smaller prints where I only need multicolour on the first few layers and the rest is a solid single colour - like coasters or name plates etc. The AMS system is excellent - the way it retracts the filament, so no buffer system needed - it's just a neat solution thats works exceptionally well. 

 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Yeh I'm building one at the moment, so will see how well it works!

I'll video it and post up my experiences!!

Posted by: @staldy

I've seen some 'Auto-Rewind Spool Holders' being used even inside a drybox. They seem to work well, and there's no need for a buffer anymore for the MMU...

Posted by: @iftibashir

I use the Bambu for smaller prints where I only need multicolour on the first few layers and the rest is a solid single colour - like coasters or name plates etc. The AMS system is excellent - the way it retracts the filament, so no buffer system needed - it's just a neat solution thats works exceptionally well. 

 

 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Great! I’ll be waiting for your feedback.

I also tried an auto-rewind spool model for the Polydryer box. I use the box with the Mini+, but since I kept some extra length on the PTFE tube, when I switch filaments (for example, prints with a few layers of different colors), it gets a little messy.

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I've spent way too much time, money, and material trying a few auto-rewinder systems. In the end, none of them worked reliably enough for me. At some point they all ended up locking up. Maybe with even more time and material I could make them work but I have stuff to do. I have also looked at alternative buffer. This one in particular looked really good: https://www.printables.com/model/1120406 but they didn't work for the way I have my spools mounted on a RepRack above my printer.

I ended up NOT using any buffer at all. You can see pictures of my setup here: https://www.printables.com/model/1130321

Doesn't look pretty but has worked well. Given the topology of the filaments I don't see how they could get tangled. 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Competition in the 3D printing market, as in any technological industry, is undoubtedly positive. It benefits all of us as users by driving innovation, advancing technologies more quickly, and, of course, reducing the cost of acquisition. However, for this competition to be truly fair and sustainable, it must take place on equal terms, and this is where the problem arises.

In Europe, companies are subject to strict labor, environmental, and intellectual property regulations, which are necessary to ensure ethical and sustainable development. However, many Chinese manufacturers do not have to comply with the same standards. This allows them to offer products at highly competitive prices by copying technological advances without investing in research and development and operating under labor conditions that would be illegal here. This advantage disrupts the market and threatens the competitiveness of European brands or those from other regions with higher standards.

Let us consider what would happen if we also lose competitiveness in products like 3D printers in Europe. The disappearance of local brands and their ecosystems would affect not only the range of products available but also employment, the development of new technologies, and, ultimately, our ability to compete globally. Do we want to depend solely on manufacturers from other regions who are not bound by the same rules?

I understand that, as consumers, we all seek high-quality products at the best possible price. However, I believe it’s also essential to reflect on the long-term impact of our purchasing decisions—not just economically but also socially and ethically. Sustainable innovation should be the goal, and to achieve this, we need a market that values the same rules of the game for everyone.

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Here's another reason to avoid BambuLab going forward : https://blog.bambulab.com/firmware-update-introducing-new-authorization-control-system-2/

Seems like they are going to start restricting users to their way or no way - so no more 3rd party software like OrcaSlicer etc.

I already use my A1 in LAN only mode - I do not care for or want to use cloud services - and I certainly won't be updating my firmware any time soon. 

Another tick for Prusa and their open source nature. 

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Wow, that is a gutsy move for them.  Abandoning OrcaSlicer is going to be a tough pill for many users to swallow.  Will be interesting to see what the prevailing response from Bambu owners turns out to be.

-J

RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Posted by: @iftibashir

Here's another reason to avoid BambuLab going forward : https://blog.bambulab.com/firmware-update-introducing-new-authorization-control-system-2/

Seems like they are going to start restricting users to their way or no way - so no more 3rd party software like OrcaSlicer etc.

I already use my A1 in LAN only mode - I do not care for or want to use cloud services - and I certainly won't be updating my firmware any time soon. 

Another tick for Prusa and their open source nature. 

Does Prusa provide network or any plugins for slicers other than prusaslicer? Genuine question and NOT a sarcastic comment. Also not to be the devils advocate usually people that DO NOT want to tinker with their 3d printers (the majority of BL customers i recon) tend to keep using the "official" workflow software open source or not. If im not mistaken BL was already working as a rather closed ecosystem and their users were mostly ok with it. Im not sure if dropping plugins for 3rd party slicer will make a difference in their customer base.