As a leading manufacturer, Bambu Lab has made a huge name in the 3D printing industry. There are two main models that people are confused about buying and today, we are putting a neck-to-neck comparison of Bambu Lab A1 Combo vs P1S .
In this comparison, we are covering their features, build quality, pros & cons, and lastly, which one is better suited for you.
Bambu Lab A1 Combo
While Bambu Lab A1 has been there for some time, its combo variant is a newer solution. The Bambu Lab A1 Combo incorporates all the necessary features including automation and multi-color printing. In some cases, it doesn’t even need an enclosure.
However, we still recommend you choose the best enclosure for the regular Bambu Lab A1 and A1 Mini as Chitu Systems offers. But what makes Bambu Lab A1 different from its predecessor? You see, with the combo, you’re getting an integration with AMS (Automatic Material System).
In other words, with the use of AMS Lite with Bambu Lab A1, multi-color printing can be done easily without you ever having to change filament mid-print. This is perfect for people who want to print 3D prints with different colors in a more complex use case.
Here are some of the key features of the Bambu Lab A1 Combo:
- An enclosed structure
- Integrated AMS for multi-color printing
- Auto-calibration feature for seamless setup
- Cloud printing support
Bambu Lab P1S
Moving on to Bambu Lab P1S, it is the successor to their original P1P printer. The key highlight of the P1S is that it works right out of the box with 15 minutes needed to set up. It is also enclosed for high-temperature printing, which gives us an idea of how powerful this 3D printer actually is.
However, with Bambu Lab A1 Combo, you are getting an integrated AMS. However, with the P1S, you don’t see that option. Regardless, the P1S is still AMS Lite compatible, which is something you can always buy afterward.
All in all, the P1S is a stronger option when it comes to 3D printing but it also comes with a hefty price tag. Here are some of the features you get with it:
- Multi-color capability
- Up to 20,000 mm/s square acceleration
- Enclosed right out of the box
- Rigid and stronger frame than most 3D printers
Design and Build Quality Comparison
When it comes to the Bambu Lab A1 Combo, you get a sleek, enclosed design that is perfect for 3D printing in a controlled environment. Thanks to its new enclosed design, you get rid of issues like warping and you can print better with filaments like ABS and PETG. Design-wise, the A1 Combo looks good but not great.
That’s where the P1S comes in. It looks more futuristic, and sturdier, and is bigger than the A1 Combo. Moreover, the P1S is designed for high-temperature materials. Moreover, with better printing speeds and a stronger design than the A1 Combo, the P1S wins the battle for a stylish design and an overall elite build quality.
Multi-Material Printing Capabilities
The main benefit of choosing the A1 Combo is that it comes with AMS. This means that you can easily print multiple colors without the need to change filament mid-print or need any additional hardware. This makes it the perfect choice for anyone who is looking to 3D print decently on a budget. However, it does print right out of the box, which is something that the P1S doesn’t support.
The P1S is still AMS-compatible but you will need to buy it separately from Bambu Lab, which increases the overall cost of an already expensive 3D printer.
Accuracy and Printing Speed
But what about printing speed and accuracy? Both the P1S and A1 Combo use the CoreXY motion system, which is excellent for high-speed printing while maintaining accuracy. But when it comes to the pound-for-pound printing speed, the P1S is a clear winner due to its raw speed, the ability to process prints faster, and do it while having a much stronger cooling system.
On the other hand, the A1 Combo is still decent but lags behind the P1S in printing speed. The P1S has a structural benefit that makes it superior to the A1 Combo in almost every printing and accuracy aspect.
Compatibility Factor
Both the P1S and A1 Combo support a wide range of materials, however, their effectiveness is a little different. For example, the A1 Combo supports PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, and even TPU. However, it specializes in multi-color printing, which is why it is a great option if you want to use a wide range of filaments.
On the other hand, the P1S also supports all these filaments but also has PA compatibility. The use-case varies just a little bit here because the P1S is known for processing high-temperature prints, which is great for when you’re using materials like PC or PA due to its better thermal management and superior design.
All in all, the A1 Combo comes with AMS right out of the box so you’re getting better compatibility when it comes to multi-color printing. But if you’re looking at it from a material compatibility point of view then the P1S takes the cake for being a stronger contender.
Which 3D Printer Should You Buy?
The question of Bambu Lab A1 Combo vs P1S still remains here. Which one should you buy? If you’re on a budget and need something that also gives you a great return on investment, then the A1 Combo is a great option since you’re getting AMS as well.
However, if you’re looking for high-temperature, high-speed, and top-of-the-line 3D printing capabilities, then the P1S is the perfect fit for you. Lastly, if you’re looking for the most credible 3D printing accessories, you should check out Chitu Systems.
