Bambu P1S Combo: The Easiest 3D Printer You've Ever Used

Breaking Barriers in 3D Printing

Having tinkered with 3D printers for over a decade, I've often described them as more of a shop tool than a home gadget. However, with the Bambu P1S Combo, that perception has shifted dramatically. This machine is not just user-friendly; it's a game-changer that presents 3D printing as a straightforward endeavor.

My first test was the ubiquitous Benchy—a tugboat used to assess printer capabilities. To my delight, the P1S produced a near-perfect model in under 20 minutes. The experience was not just efficient; it rekindled my enthusiasm for 3D printing, allowing me to start projects confidently from my computer, even from a distance.

While my criticisms of the P1S are minor, they offer insights for both new and experienced users. If you're fine with handling a bit of plastic waste, the printer will easily churn out countless perfect items.

Speed Meets Quality

Every time I upgrade my 3D printer, I'm always amazed at the speed improvements. My last printer, the Creality Ender 3 Max Neo, could achieve around 150mm per second. The P1S, however, easily surpasses 200mm/s without flinching. The speed was so impressive that I had to reinforce the end table I typically use to prevent minor vibrations, which caused some stringing at sharp corners.

3D printing is often fraught with inconsistencies, but the P1S endeavors to mitigate this with an intuitive pre-print routine. It purges extra material before each print and cleans the nozzle, which results in a clean first layer time after time. However, the method isn't without its awkwardness; waste simply accumulates at the back of the machine, necessitating cleanup.

Pros and Cons

Pros (WIRED)

• Easy and consistent printing with minimal setup and maintenance.
• The AMS (Automatic Material System) efficiently reduces filament switching, simplifying multi-color projects.

Cons (TIRED)

• Inconsistencies when using non-Bambu filament in the app.
• Waste management feels a tad inelegant.

Exploring the Features

Despite its few shortcomings, the Bambu P1S offers features that may transform your 3D printing experience. The AMS bundle, which allows for seamless multi-filament printing, was one of the most anticipated features for me. Sure, it's capable of producing vibrant, multi-color outputs, but it doesn't come without its own set of quirks. Switching colors mid-print can waste filament, and users may have to print a purge tower to minimize Z-axis variations.

Instead of focusing exclusively on multi-color prints, the AMS shines in reducing the hassle associated with filament swaps. I appreciated how it guided me through the process; however, you still need to remove the old filament and load the new one manually. Once set up, the AMS handles everything efficiently, allowing me to concentrate on the creative aspects rather than the technical ones.

Final Thoughts

The Bambu P1S Combo is not just a 3D printer; it's a potential catalyst for those who want to explore their creativity without the encumbrance of complicated technology. I've found it drastically reduces the time I devote to printer setup and troubleshooting, making room for more productive sessions focused on my projects.

While minor software oddities and the odd plastic cleanup might occur, the ease of use and efficient designs are undoubtedly worth it. If you're in the market for a simple, reliable 3D printing solution, the Bambu P1S Combo could very well be your ideal starting point.