Hey, 3D printing enthusiasts! Since the launch of Bambu Lab X1E, there have been mixed opinions about its benefits. This article will delve into this machine and explain why it commands such a price!
The engineering team at 3D Printing Industry recently reviewed the Bambu Lab X1E desktop 3D printer. This machine not only breaks the mold but also sets new standards, potentially even dividing the 3D printing community like MakerBot did when it branched off from RepRap. Essentially, the Bambu Lab X1E is an FDM 3D printer with enhanced network connectivity and a CoreXY printhead, boasting incredible speed and reliability.
Since its debut in 2020, Bambu Lab has launched several 3D printers, including the X1 Carbon (September 2022), P1P (November 2022), P1S (August 2023), A1 Mini (September 2023)、X1E (October 2023) and A1 (December 2023). Market intelligence firm CONTEXT reported that Bambu Lab desktop system shipments saw a 3000% increase in Q4 2023.
However, the Bambu Lab X1E is not without its critics. Critics primarily point to its cybersecurity issues, which are a concern for potential users.
Want to learn more? Continue reading for the full report and over 300 hours of comprehensive testing of Bambu Lab's latest desktop 3D printer!
Bambu Lab X1E 3D Printer (Photo credit: 3D Printing Industry)
Key Features and Benefits of Bambu Lab X1E
The Bambu Lab X1E is designed to address common issues with desktop 3D printers and enhance the user experience.
This 3D printer's high-speed printhead can reach speeds of up to 500mm/s, and with fine-tuned software, it precisely controls the printing process to prevent failures. The combination of the printhead and software significantly reduces print time and improves production efficiency.
The new hotend can reach a maximum temperature of 320°C, while the actively heated build chamber can withstand temperatures up to 60°C. These features expand the range of usable materials and unlock more application scenarios.
Air filtration comes from H12, G3 air purification filters with coconut shell granules, designed to eliminate toxic fumes released by materials such as caprolactam or styrene. When certain filaments (like ABS and nylon) are heated during 3D printing, they release ultrafine particles (UFPs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These emissions can be harmful, including known carcinogens, irritants, and developmental and reproductive toxins.
The X1E's heavy-duty air filter minimizes these emissions, keeping you safe during prolonged use. Its AI fault detection uses a micro-radar camera, which benefits users by reducing material waste and downtime.
Users concerned about security may be interested in the X1E's new features, which now support WiFi WPA2 Enterprise authentication, WLAN/LAN, and Ethernet, enhancing connection security through encrypted channels. This is ideal for situations requiring offline printing, such as when design files are controlled.
Hardware and Electronic Design and Manufacturing Quality
The X1E boasts a sophisticated, modern, and sleek appearance. The grey aluminum alloy and glass enclosure measure 389 x 389 x 457 mm and weigh 16 kg, which is a moderate weight for printers of its size.
Two rigid carbon fiber rods support the toolhead, with a steel base ensuring stability, while two belt-driven stepper motors provide torque in a Core-XY configuration. The heated bed is supported by 3 lead screws, controlled by a larger stepper motor for the Z-axis gantry.
Bambu Lab X1E interior close-up (Photo credit: 3D Printing Industry)
X1E Setup and Calibration
The X1E is well-packaged, with appropriate plastic sleeves on glass components, and all components are securely fixed and protected. The unboxing process is very intuitive. Assembly can be completed within 15 minutes using an Allen key and screwdriver.
👉 Related Article: Bambu Lab Launches X1E Industrial-Grade 3D Printer - Feature Details & Specification Comparison!
Bambu Lab X1E 3D Printer: Let Your Creativity Soar!
The full-color 5-inch LCD touchscreen makes it easy to monitor all important printing information and perform necessary operations – it's like a smart assistant for 3D printing!
After rigorous testing, the X1E has been continuously printing for over 300 hours with no degradation, which is the best proof of its quality!
The X1E has multiple built-in sensors that remind you to perform maintenance checks. Scan the QR code to access Bambu Wiki and tutorial videos, making maintenance and upkeep easy.
Before 3D printing, a full calibration is required. This includes the following items:
1) Automatic bed leveling
2) Resonance frequency identification (standard for FDM printers since 2021)
3) Micro lidar calibration
4) Motor noise level calibration
The entire process takes 25 minutes, which is the average time required for other desktop 3D printers similar to the X1E.
Bambu's micro-radar uses two dual red lasers to measure depth, achieving bed flatness with an accuracy of 7 µm. It can also determine the extrusion flow rate, including a first-layer scan for failure analysis.
3D Printing Software and User Interface
Bambu Lab offers its proprietary software, Bambu Studio, which is compatible with all 3D printers. However, since the X1E can read g-code, it is not limited to receiving g-code data from other slicers when imported via micro-SD.
The X1E's full-color 5-inch touchscreen display provides users with various prompts and helpful guides. Here, all commands can be executed, such as loading/unloading filament, nozzle/chamber/bed temperature, fan/print speed, and calibration. Access to the build chamber camera can also be found on the device tab.
Bambu Studio features various useful tools not found in other slicing software. The multi-color, multi-material capabilities allow artists, creatives, and architects to achieve design freedom unmatched by other desktop systems.
This also enables engineering components to be printed with support materials, reducing overall surface defects during post-processing. The software includes simple and expert modes, welcoming users of all levels.
X1E's 3D Printing Performance
The X1E includes 4 firmware speed modes, which multiply the motor speed and can only be modified after printing has started. Silent (50%), Normal (100%), Sport (124%), and Ludicrous (166%) allow users to speed up or quiet down 3D printing at their convenience.
📣 The second part of this article, featuring actual product testing, will be released next week! Stay tuned!
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