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Bambu Lab A1
About the Bambu Lab A1
Note: The Bambu is available for sale again on Bambu Lab’s website. The A1 was temporarily recalled in February 2024 for an issue with the heatbed cable that affected a small percentage of users. Bambu Lab has now resolved that issue and the printer has been re-released.
The Bambu Lab A1, released in the fall of 2023, is a significant addition to the 3D printing market, offering an affordable and feature-rich alternative to higher-priced models. Known for its modern design and functionality, the A1 has become a compelling choice for both new and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts.
The Bambu Lab A1 is a midrange 3D printer that offers fast print speeds, advanced sensors, and above-average print quality. Its 256 x 256 x 256 mm build volume is slightly larger than machines such as the Creality Ender 3 series, and matches that of the Bambu P1P and X1C. It’s notably larger than the 180 x 180 x 180 mm build volume of the A1 Mini, making it a clear upgrade from that machine. It’s Bambu’s first traditional Cartesian “bedslinger” style machine, and competes directly against low to midrange FDM 3D printers from other manufacturers.
Key Features of the Bambu Lab A1
Build Volume
The A1 offers a generous build volume of 256 x 256 x 256 mm (10.1” x 10.1” x 10.1”), which is slightly larger than average among consumer FDM 3D printers in its price range.
Supported Materials
With an all-metal hotend capable of heating up to 300°C and a heated bed reaching up to 100°C, the A1 can print a wide range of standard 3D printing filaments, including PLA, PETG, TPU, PA, nylon, and more.
Print Bed Surface
The A1 features a textured PEI bed surface, which offers excellent layer adhesion and ease of print removal after cooling. The bed attaches magnetically, allowing for easy removal and replacement.
Connectivity and Software
The A1 includes WiFi connectivity and is compatible with Bambu Lab’s computer and phone apps. It allows remote control and monitoring, including access to Bambu Lab’s extensive library of user-submitted models through the Bambu Handy smartphone app.
Firmware Optimizations
Bambu Lab’s firmware features and algorithms, such as pressure advance, vibration compensation, and input shaping, enhance the print quality, particularly at higher speeds. These features are integral to achieving exceptional print quality in the A1.
Automatic Bed Leveling
The A1 includes a strain-based automatic bed leveling system, which uses the nozzle to sense the bed rather than requiring a separate probe. This technology ensures precise and consistent leveling for each print.
Integrated Camera
An integrated low-framerate camera in the A1 allows for remote visual monitoring of ongoing prints. This 1080p camera enhances the printer’s usability, especially when paired with remote control features.
Design and Motion System
The A1 adopts a Cartesian “bedslinger” design with linear rails on the X and Y axes, reducing vibration and enhancing print quality. This design is common in consumer 3D printers and has been refined in the A1 for better performance.
Touchscreen Display and Controls
A significant feature of the A1 is its full-color graphical touchscreen controller, which provides a modern and user-friendly interface for controlling the printer and viewing its status.
Flow Rate Sensor
A unique addition to the A1 is the flow rate sensor in the hotend. This sensor automatically calibrates the filament flow rate multiplier, streamlining the printing process and improving print quality across different filament types.
Multi-Material System (AMS Lite)
The A1 is compatible with Bambu’s AMS Lite system, an affordable and capable multi-material add-on that supports up to four filament spools. This system enhances the A1’s versatility, allowing for multi-color and multi-material printing.
Summary
In summary, the Bambu Lab A1 is a feature-rich, versatile, and affordable 3D printer suitable for a wide range of printing tasks. It shares many of its fundamental specs with a number of 3D printers from other manufacturers, many of which come in at a lower price. However, the A1’s advanced firmware features, overall build quality, and convenience features such as the integrated camera and flow rate sensor give it a few key advantages over its competition that may make it worth a look as a more premium option in its class.
For more details and purchasing options, visit the Bambu Lab website: Bambu Lab A1.
Brand Summary: Bambu Lab
Bambu Lab, founded by ex-DJI engineers in Shenzhen, has made waves in the 3D printing industry with its focus on speed, innovation, and user-friendliness. While it began its journey through a successful Kickstarter campaign, raising $7 million in a month, the brand has since had its share of growing pains, including shipping issues and firmware bugs. The company's commitment to creating intuitive, precalibrated 3D printers like the X1-Carbon and P1P is commendable, but some users have found limitations with the proprietary components and software. Despite these challenges, Bambu Lab boasts a large community of dedicated users across various platforms and continues to evolve in its offerings and customer service.
Compatible Accessories and Upgrades
- Bambu AMS Lite
The Bambu Lab AMS (Automatic Material System) Lite upgrades the A1 series Bambu labs 3D printers with multi-color and multi-material printing capabilities. It features automatic filament backup and improved spool compatibility, making it easy to maintain and use. Additionally, it supports RFID filament synchronization.
- Bigtreetech Panda Touch
The Panda Touch is a touchscreen controller for Bambu Lab 3D printers made by Bigtreetech, who produces a line of accessories for Bambu Lab's machines. It provides a larger and more functional user interface than the built-in screen on most Bambu 3D printers, and offers additional capabilities for wireless monitoring and print farm management.
Printer Comparisons
The articles below provide in depth comparisons of the Bambu Lab A1 to other similar printers on the market.
Bambu’s Bedslingers: the Bambu Lab A1 Compared to the Bambu Lab A1 mini
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Comparing the Bambu Lab A1 vs the Bambu Lab P1P
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Comparing the Bambu Lab A1 vs the Creality Ender 3 V3 KE
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Bambu Lab A1 vs Ender 3 V3
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You can compare the Bambu Lab A1 to other 3D printers using our Compare tool.