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Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core  

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_KaszpiR_
(@_kaszpir_)
Prominent Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Prusa provides API spec to the PrusaLink that is on the printers, you can interact with the printer over local network.

See my GitHub and printables.com for some 3d stuff that you may like.

Posted : 18/01/2025 1:20 pm
TeamD3dp
(@teamd3dp)
Estimable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

It appears the reaction is growing over on the Bambu forum.  Unless Bambu changes course, this move will represent a significant moment in their business and reputation.  The "option" to simply not update firmware is not comforting to many people because it will be unavoidable with new printers, and nobody wants to run two separate workflows in a farm setting.  Claims are often different from reality, but multiple users there are already stating that they will sell their Bambus, stop recommending them, and replace with a different brand.

-J

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:00 pm
tsamisa
(@tsamisa)
Estimable Member
Topic starter answered:
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Thats really good from prusa's side. But this is not a plugin its something helpfull if you want to write a plugin.  Its what is said in my post. For the end user that will not bother writing plugins or going on an alternative route for its workflow this development doesn't matter. Of course the ethical approach would be since BL "borrows" code from Prusaslicer to keep open their code too for others to build on.

Posted by: @_kaszpir_

Prusa provides API spec to the PrusaLink that is on the printers, you can interact with the printer over local network.

 

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:06 pm
Crab
 Crab
(@crab)
Reputable Member
RE:

I think you need to also look at the rational for this closing of their firmware and don't assume a non-competitive stance. With the rise of hacking it is possible that machines connected to the cloud could be hacked and someone could turn on your hotend, causing a fire. It's why Apple's HomeKit is so locked down. And as they build in more features between their slicer, cloud and printers it wouldn't be possible for them to support all others.. and publishing their work would bypass the security they are intending to provide. Prusa has less advanced cloud services with less conveniences, but it is more open. Users will choose their philosophy. I really like the simplicity of my MK3S+, but the lack of sophistication in their new platform for IP connectivity is a negative in my view. Also the problems people have had in going from version 3.11 firmware in their MK3S keeps me from updating my firmware as Prusa has caused many, many problems with thermal runaway issues. So keeping my firmware up-to-date is not an issue. I use OctoPrint on my MK3S+ and it is more robust and performs faster than Prusa's current IP features without requiring any USB drives for buffering.. another point of failure. But it doesn't have all the features it could because Prusa still controls their own firmware and they only support Octoprint so far.. (they don't officially support its operation). So even Prusa has some aspects of a walled garden.. and as they also offer more features between their Printables/PrusaLink/PrusaConnect I suspect it will become less easy to use non Prusa Slicers.

My biggest concern with all these complex security "fixes" is that, as a Network and Electronic engineer, I see too many instances of these features just not working. It is so complicated it is not possible for people to write error-free code. And I use Apple's new "Theft" security setting that gets auto-turned on in an update, can only be disabled by biometric (not passcode) authentication. However, the finger-print ID is prone to failing over time, and their feature of not requiring it if you are home doesn't seem to work in the 2 iPhone cases I've worked on, requiring users to take their phones to an Apple Store to be totally reset (3.5 hour drive).

This post was modified 3 weeks ago by Crab
Posted : 18/01/2025 3:27 pm
Crab
 Crab
(@crab)
Reputable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

It will be determined by how successful they are in writing their firmware. And as I indicated with firmware for Prusa's MK3S+ ... if they have this type of success, or lack of it, it will hurt their sales. Fortunately for Prusa users you can just choose to downgrade.. But with Bambu, there may be so many features you need in new updates, you are virtually forced to keep your firmware current.

Posted by: @teamd3dp

It appears the reaction is growing over on the Bambu forum.  Unless Bambu changes course, this move will represent a significant moment in their business and reputation.  

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:36 pm
iftibashir
(@iftibashir)
Prominent Member
RE:

Well if you have both systems (like I do), or a larger print farm with multiple makes/models of printer, then it's easier to use something like OrcaSlicer as your one overall software solution that has profiles for various printers. Now, with BL's move, it means OrcaSlicer can no longer be used. You're stuck with using Bambu's own slicer and nothing else. It has  lot of people riled up on the BL forum.....

I see the other side as well and see why BL are following this path. I only run locally with no network services other then on my local LAN, so not bothered as much, but it is a strong stance by BL and interesting to see how it will play out.....

Posted by: @tsamisa

 

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.

 

Click here for VIDEO BUILD GUIDES + 3D Printing Tips!

--> MK4 - MK4S - MINI+ - MMU3 - Accelerometer Guide - BambuLab A1 Combo <--

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:41 pm
TeamD3dp
(@teamd3dp)
Estimable Member
RE:

I've run jobs through OrcaSlicer for my Mk4S, and it works perfectly, and iirc, the esp32 camera feed was working in OrcaSlicer perhaps even before they had a tab for it in PrusaSlicer.  The point here is that LOTS of people use OrcaSlicer as their central control hub for printers of different brands. You can't do that with Bambu studio, which means folks will have to split their workflows up.  Bambu must have some significant reason for wanting to push this, because the alternative is that they genuinely don't understand many of their customers.  The fear that they fully control your printer has been the prominent argument against Bambu, and this move is likely going to be perceived as them forcing users to relinquish even more control.  If it was just a philosophical, under the hood change, people would likely ignore it.  But force them to use a lesser workflow and remove efficiency from their day to day operations and folks are going to get upset.  We will see how it goes.

Interestingly,  isn't it common to release "bad press" news on Fridays so that the sting will be softened by the time everyone gets caught back up on Monday?  Let's not forget they didn't want to allow the X1 plus firmware either.  I suspect they have a clearly planned roadmap that includes all this and perhaps more, and they want it badly enough to go through the firestorm for it.

-J

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:44 pm
Myf and iftibashir liked
_KaszpiR_
(@_kaszpir_)
Prominent Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Prusa already has their own workflow with PrusaSlicer and PrusaConnect, they just keep certain things in slow development mode so it does not break a lot of existing setups - especially when they are using their own machines in the farms.

Bambu wants to have their own workflow as well, first creating their own slicer fork, and now they started to move more aggressively by breaking existing integrations of connecting other software to the printers. Who knows, maybe Prusa some day will do the same. But more important question is if they want to stay available for other integrations or not. AFAIR PrusaConnect does not have a publicly available API spec, so their product is also limited but from the platform side.

All in all people will rant, some will just get along with the change and will adjust, for the others it will be major change which will make them work to adjust to it, and some will surely abandon given products in the near future. I am sure that Bambu move was well calculated and they know the risks.

Posted by: @tsamisa

Thats really good from prusa's side. But this is not a plugin its something helpfull if you want to write a plugin.  Its what is said in my post. For the end user that will not bother writing plugins or going on an alternative route for its workflow this development doesn't matter. Of course the ethical approach would be since BL "borrows" code from Prusaslicer to keep open their code too for others to build on.

 

See my GitHub and printables.com for some 3d stuff that you may like.

Posted : 18/01/2025 3:53 pm
nhand42
(@nhand42)
Trusted Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

 

Posted by: @teamd3dp

It appears the reaction is growing over on the Bambu forum.  Unless Bambu changes course, this move will represent a significant moment in their business and reputation.  The "option" to simply not update firmware is not comforting to many people because it will be unavoidable with new printers, and nobody wants to run two separate workflows in a farm setting.  Claims are often different from reality, but multiple users there are already stating that they will sell their Bambus, stop recommending them, and replace with a different brand.

-J

I had hoped Bambu wouldn't do this because I truly believe its better to have more innovation and competition, but I'm feeling totally justified in avoiding Bambu and sticking with Prusa now.

Prusa Core One locked in for my next upgrade.

Posted : 19/01/2025 5:12 am
Antimix
(@antimix)
Reputable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

With this move, it seems Bambulab want to do a favour to Prusa...
What it was conspiracy theory seems to be materializing now in 2025...

I see many more CoreOne orders in the coming weeks. 😆 

Bambulab have basically blocked any access to the printer from anyone that is not Bambulab. It is now a locked box.
They say in the FW note:

Critical Operations that Require Authorization

The following printer operations will require authorization controls:

• Binding and unbinding the printer.
• Initiating remote video access.
• Performing firmware upgrades.
• Initiating a print job (via LAN or cloud mode).
• Controlling motion system, temperature, fans, AMS settings, calibrations, etc.

Any access should pass through the Bambulab Cloud API (no internet connection... ? No print... 😉 ) that will give the GO to the printer for any specific function.

Open source slicers will have very limited functionalities or no functionalities at all on the printer.

At this point they could even activate their proprietary RFID IP on the filament spool, and make their spools the only material printable on Bambulab Printers (Epson and HP teach 😎 ).

On internet groups and forum, lots of people are thinking to move away from BL if they will not change their mind.
Those are the some of the reasons that keep me to use PRUSA Printers.

Regards

Posted : 19/01/2025 7:33 pm
nhand42 liked
iftibashir
(@iftibashir)
Prominent Member
RE:

Fortunately one of the first things I ever did with my A1 was to switch on LAN mode. Its been running like that ever since 😉

Still prefer my Prusa, and is the company I'll stick with!

Anyways - an update from BambuLab.....

https://blog.bambulab.com/updates-and-third-party-integration-with-bambu-connect/

Click here for VIDEO BUILD GUIDES + 3D Printing Tips!

--> MK4 - MK4S - MINI+ - MMU3 - Accelerometer Guide - BambuLab A1 Combo <--

Posted : 20/01/2025 11:32 am
rarillo
(@rarillo)
Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Hi, if I had to choose, I would definitely go with Prusa. I have several reasons for making this choice. On the one hand, I like much more the software philosophy adopted by Prusa, respecting open source and its licenses, giving you the security that they are not going to pirate anything like the threat of closing the ecosystem by Bambulab this week. Another reason is that I have the impression that Prusa machines are more reliable and robust than Bambulab's, being much more tested and finally, Prusa's multicolour system (mmu), despite being more complex to use than Bambulab's AMS, produces much less waste and I hate throwing away bags full of rubbish that cost 15€ per kg.

Posted : 20/01/2025 6:49 pm
Steve
(@steve-4)
Estimable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I have learned that I cannot discuss this with fanbois, because I will biased answered.  I did some investigation of the Bambu X1 at a local Microcenter, and was fairly impressed with the machine.  I have three Prusa machines: an MK3/S, an MK4, and an XL.  I got the MK3 because I was tired of futzing with the first layer height on the MK3/S.  The MK4 runs pretty well, and once I got over the intial flurry of bad parts and finally got a decent firmware.  I got an upgrade kit to go from the MK4 to the MK4/S, and this requires taking the printer apart, which I won't do on my only working printer.  So much for upgrade paths.  I found it much more cost effective to purchase an MK4 kit rather than upgrade the MK3/S, so now the MK3/S is sitting waiting to be donated to someone.  I am still having issues with the XL.  I am noat a novice to 3D printing.  I  just want to print stuff, not futz with the printer.  I basically design my own models using Alibre Design, then print them.

With the Xl, I am fighting a really bad design with regards to the filament feed and the Toolhead feeds.  Prusa took E3D'S design for a toolchanger to tried to scale it up for a larger size.  Unfortunately, it wasn't done properly, and I am still fighting the results.  I get toolhead crashes and layer shifts mainly do to the cable/filament guide tube layouts.  When I print PETG (which I do mostly), the nozzle heats up to 175, then down to 70, then back up to 175 so it can do the mesh bed levelling.  I reported this issue way back, and am still waiting for firmware to fix this.  Once it does the bed levelling, it heats the nozzle up to the 230 so I can print the PETG.

I am still trying to get the Prusa belt tuner app to work properly on my Samsung Galaxy S23  The old belt tuner app worked fine on an old Samsung Galaxy S9, and I am currently using a guitar tuner app to tune the belts on my printers.

I am currently not impressed by Prusa's software forte, and am getting less so on their hardware design.  I will NOT be getting the first Core One coming out of the chute.

Upgrading an old printer is a joke, and possibly not cost effective.  I'll stick with getting a newer, more reliable printer every few years then trying to upgrade my old ones.  I have several older ones I have simply trashed.

I think I will look to Bambu X1C for my next printer, since I am not impressed by Prusa's lack of software skills or hardware design.

 

Senior Life member of IEEE.

Posted : 20/01/2025 8:42 pm
iftibashir
(@iftibashir)
Prominent Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Thats fine you had a bad experience, but doesn't mean anyone else who hasn't had a bad experience is a Prusa 'fanboi'. You'r eon a Prusa forum after all.....

I have had nothing but positive results with the MK4 and MK4s (not so much with the MK3s).

I have also had nothing but positive results from my Bambu A1 Combo. 

Both have their pro's and cons, but if I were to choose one over the other it would be Prusa, for various reasons. Even so, I have, and I use, both platforms. Each to their own.

Click here for VIDEO BUILD GUIDES + 3D Printing Tips!

--> MK4 - MK4S - MINI+ - MMU3 - Accelerometer Guide - BambuLab A1 Combo <--

Posted : 20/01/2025 8:58 pm
nhand42 liked
Crab
 Crab
(@crab)
Reputable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

I"m not sure if I'm reading the Bambu stuff correctly, but it appears as though it is similar to "rings of privilege" in CPUs.. That is.. at one time your code could access the most basic features of the CPU. It gave enormous power and you could do all kinds of stuff. Great utilities were written. But also meant that bad software could damage the system. Thus software was given less privilege and had to go through a process to "ask" to do the same things. Software could no longer do 'root' things like write directly to disks... Orca slicer will still work with all the Bambu printers, they just have to rewrite their communication code to use Bambu's API or new communication protocol. And they are working with Orca developers now so they'll have it available when necessary. Sure Orca could say "No.. too much work" .. and not make those mods to Orca slicer.. but I can't see them doing that.. Lots of unknowns until something is actually out and people can see how it works. 

But also similar to how Octoprint needs to go thru the limitations of the USB comm interface on Prusa printers.. Some stuff on MK4 that doesn't work if you use Octoprint and not a priority for Prusa since they want you to use their Prusa Connect/Link. Here you are limited to Prusa modifying their firmware to support Octoprint. I can see Octoprint being hurt quite a bit because Prusa's new firmware isn't as compatible as .. say the MK3S.. where Octoprint was the only game in town for using IP communication.

Only time will tell.. but impossible to know the full implementation until people start using the new Bambu firmware.. 

Posted : 20/01/2025 9:15 pm
Walter Layher
(@walter-layher)
Noble Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

The only thing that does not work the same on the MK4 as on the MK3xx is the progress display on the printer's screen. Everything else I use (and I have both printers in use with OctoPrint) works the same on both printers. I follow the print process via the browser on my PC, not on the printer itself, so this is no major incompatibility issue or limitation  for me. I did use my MK3S+ the same way before the MK4 came out. Saying again and again there are "incompatibilities" does probably more damage FUD-wise in the perception of potential new users.

Posted : 20/01/2025 9:34 pm
Crab
 Crab
(@crab)
Reputable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

From a post 2 years ago, see below.. Now I don't want to spread bad info on Prusa firmware.. but I looked on Prusa's GitHub site for the Filament runout problem and it is a closed case and reason is "not planned". So if you run out of filament on MK4 running Octoprint, my understanding (I don't have printer) is that the printer doesn't recognize and stop. That works fine on MK3S+. That would be a big problem on some of my prints. 

Some of the other points mentioned below may or may not still be an issue 2 years later. 

My point is not that Octoprint won't work.. but that even Prusa may not go out of their way to allow a 3rd party access to some features, even though they had it in the past. And I would say that is not a fault of Prusa.. just how companies evolve when they develop their own versions of "octoprint" such as the PrusaLink/Connect.

 

**********

None of the mentioned works with the MK4! Please be aware of that!

Filament Runout: The sensor will trigger alright, but it will not pause the print and prompt you to change filament like it did in the past. There is an open issue here.

Information Display: You will see basic temperatures, but not the progress or remaining time like on the MK3. It is almost like the printer is not aware that a print job is running, as you can even trigger calibrations features while printing from octoprint... There is an open issue here.

Stop/Pause print: As the printer doesn't seem to be aware if a print is running, you can not pause or stop the print from the printer while printing from octoprint.

*********************

Posted by: @walter-layher

The only thing that does not work the same on the MK4 as on the MK3xx is the progress display on the printer's screen. Everything else I use (and I have both printers in use with OctoPrint) works the same on both printers. I follow the print process via the browser on my PC, not on the printer itself, so this is no major incompatibility issue or limitation  for me. I did use my MK3S+ the same way before the MK4 came out. Saying again and again there are "incompatibilities" does probably more damage FUD-wise in the perception of potential new users.

 

Posted : 21/01/2025 2:18 am
nhand42
(@nhand42)
Trusted Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

 

Posted by: @steve-4

I have learned that I cannot discuss this with fanbois,

You're not discussing in good faith if you label all differing opinions as "fanbois".

For what it's worth I've owned 3d printers from multiple companies over the past 15 years. I've had mostly positive experiences with Prusa printers. It's a shame you haven't but you seem to have made your mind up already. I hope you have better luck with a different printer. 

Posted : 21/01/2025 5:48 am
Volker
(@volker)
Estimable Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Let's finalize: Prusa is good; Bambo is good. You decide by design and cost. No reason to frame anybody.

Posted : 21/01/2025 5:51 am
Brian, SweetRide, iftibashir and 1 people liked
iftibashir
(@iftibashir)
Prominent Member
RE: Asked about opinion for bambu vs Prusa Core

Pretty much sums it all up! lol

Posted by: @volker

Let's finalize: Prusa is good; Bambo is good. You decide by design and cost. No reason to frame anybody.

 

Click here for VIDEO BUILD GUIDES + 3D Printing Tips!

--> MK4 - MK4S - MINI+ - MMU3 - Accelerometer Guide - BambuLab A1 Combo <--

Posted : 21/01/2025 9:14 am
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