Looking Beyond the ANYCUBIC Kobra S1 Max Combo Multicolor 3D Printer? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How each alternative compares

Bambu Lab P1S Combo Multicolor 3D Printer

The Bambu Lab P1S Combo offers a more compact footprint at 18 x 15.3 x 15.3 inches, compared to the Kobra S1 Max’s 23 x 19 x 21 inches. You give up significant build volume, but gain a fully enclosed design that enhances safety and thermal stability. This model prioritizes print quality and consistent results over sheer size. It fits users who need reliable multi-color printing in smaller spaces without sacrificing the CoreXY speed benefits. The enclosed chamber helps manage advanced materials better than open systems, making it a strong choice for ABS or ASA prints where temperature control is critical. You trade the Kobra’s large canvas for a denser, more contained printing environment.

Snapmaker U1 4-Toolhead 3D Printer

The Snapmaker U1 4-Toolhead focuses on speed and material versatility rather than maximum build size. Its dimensions of 13 x 14.2 x 22.6 inches are narrower than the Kobra S1 Max, which sacrifices some width for a different structural approach. This printer is designed for makers who want to print complex multi-material parts without managing external filament hubs. It offers high-speed performance similar to the Kobra but in a more compact frame. You get efficient multi-color switching with low waste, making it ideal for detailed prototypes or small functional parts. If you do not need the 350mm build volume, the U1 provides a streamlined experience with integrated toolhead management that simplifies multi-material workflows.

Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo Multi-Color 3D Printer

The Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo is a compact option measuring 14.8 x 19.5 x 16.8 inches, significantly smaller than the Kobra S1 Max. It is best for users with limited space who still require multi-color capabilities. You give up the large 350mm build area, but gain automated calibration and quiet operation that suit hobbyist environments. This printer fits those who value convenience and speed over raw size. It delivers high-speed prints in a footprint that easily fits on smaller desks. The A1 Mini Combo is ideal for small, detailed multi-color projects where precision and ease of use matter more than the ability to print large home decorations or bulky models.

FLASHFORGE High-Speed Multi-Color 3D Printer

The Flashforge AD5X matches the Kobra S1 Max’s 600mm/s print speed and CoreXY structure, but in a much smaller 14 x 18 x 16 inch frame. It prioritizes velocity and color over large build volumes, making it suitable for rapid prototyping of smaller items. You lose the extensive 350mm build space, but gain a lightweight 24.3-pound unit that is easier to position. This printer is ideal for users who need fast, multi-color results for small models or detailed components. The direct drive extruder and auto-leveling features streamline the printing process, ensuring consistent quality at high speeds. It is a focused tool for speed rather than scale.

ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo 3D Printer

The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo delivers high-speed CoreXY performance with reliable 4-color switching, similar to the Kobra S1 Max. Its dimensions of 19.7 x 29.3 x 18.9 inches offer a different spatial profile, with a taller height but narrower width. This printer fits users who prioritize print speed and material versatility over maximum color count or massive build sizes. It provides stable printing with a focus on efficiency and consistent multi-color results. The Centauri Carbon 2 is a solid alternative for makers who want CoreXY reliability and fast switching without the bulk of the Kobra’s large enclosure. It balances speed and versatility in a robust chassis.

Anycubic Kobra X Multicolor 3D Printer

The Anycubic Kobra X offers native 4-color printing with a 260mm build volume, which is smaller than the Kobra S1 Max’s 350mm area. Its dimensions of 13 x 22 x 23 inches provide a compact footprint that fits well in smaller workspaces. You give up the larger canvas for a more manageable size that still supports advanced multi-color workflows. This printer is ideal for makers who want native multi-color capabilities without the bulk of the Max version. It maintains the brand’s focus on ease of use and reliable color switching. The Kobra X is a practical choice for those who need multi-color prints but do not require the maximum available build volume for large-scale projects.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Anycubic Kobra S1 Max Combo Multicolor 3D Printer

Best for: Large multi-color prints with advanced materials

Build Volume

350×350×350mm³

Print Speed

600mm/s

Multicolor Capacity

4-color, up to 16-color

Motion Structure

CoreXY

Chamber Heating

65°C

Color Printing

Multi-Color

View on Amazon: Anycubic Kobra S1 Max Combo Multicolor 3D Printer

The Anycubic Kobra S1 Max Combo is a multi-color 3D printer featuring a large 350×350×350mm³ build volume and CoreXY motion system. It supports up to 16-color printing via the ACE 2 Pro system and reaches speeds of 600mm/s. The enclosed design includes a 65°C heated chamber and smart calibration. This machine suits you if you need space for big projects and versatile material compatibility like ABS or TPU.

Pros

• Large 350×350×350mm³ build volume
• Up to 16-color printing capability
• 600mm/s maximum print speed
• 65°C heated chamber for advanced materials

Cons

• Heated chamber limited to 65°C
• Requires 10-minute assembly
• Noise levels up to 48dB in Standard Mode

Good fit if

• You need a large build volume for big models
• You want multi-color printing with up to 16 colors
• You print with materials like ABS or TPU

Skip if

• You require a heated chamber above 65°C
• You need a fully pre-assembled unit
• You prioritize silent operation below 45dB

Verdict: Anycubic Kobra S1 Max Combo 350mm offers a spacious build area and high-speed CoreXY printing for large, multi-color projects. It fits you if you need a large format printer that handles advanced materials with a heated chamber.

2 Also great

Bambu Lab P1S Combo Multicolor 3D Printer

Best for: High-speed multi-color prints in enclosed spaces

Print Speed

500mm/s

Multicolor Capacity

Up to 16 Colors

Leveling Type

Auto Bed Leveling

Motion Structure

CoreXY

Color Printing

Multi-Color

Features

High Speed

View on Amazon: Bambu Lab P1S Combo Multicolor 3D Printer

The Bambu Lab P1S Combo delivers multi-color printing with up to 16 colors via the AMS. It features a 15.3-inch build volume and reaches speeds of 500mm/s with 20,000 mm/s² acceleration. The enclosed design supports advanced materials like ABS and PC. It is a strong option for users who need high-speed, reliable output in a contained workspace.

Pros

• Prints up to 16 colors with AMS
• 500mm/s print speed and 20,000 mm/s² acceleration
• Fully enclosed design for advanced filaments
• Automatic bed leveling

Cons

• 15.3-inch build volume is smaller than competitors
• Carbon fiber reinforced polymers are not recommended
• Heavier at 40.9 pounds

Good fit if

• You need high-speed multi-color output
• You print with ABS or PC
• You want automatic bed leveling

Skip if

• You require a build volume larger than 15.3 inches
• You primarily use carbon fiber reinforced filaments
• You prefer an open-frame design

Verdict: The Bambu Lab P1S Combo is a reliable, high-speed choice for users who prioritize print quality and enclosed safety over maximum build volume.

3 Best premium

Snapmaker U1 4-Toolhead 3D Printer

Best for: Fast multi-material printing with low waste

Build Volume

270 X 270 X 270 mm

Print Speed

500 mm/s

Multicolor Capacity

4-Toolhead

Motion Structure

CoreXY

Color Printing

Multi-Color

Target Audience

Beginners

View on Amazon: Snapmaker U1 4-Toolhead 3D Printer

The Snapmaker U1 is a multi-color 3D printer featuring a 4-toolhead system with a 5-second tool changer. It offers a 270 x 270 x 270 mm build volume and CoreXY motion for speeds up to 500 mm/s. This setup allows true multi-material printing with minimal waste. It suits makers who need fast, reliable multi-color output without manual filament swaps or extensive purging.

Pros

• 4-toolhead system with 5-second automatic tool changes
• 270 x 270 x 270 mm build volume
• CoreXY motion structure with 500 mm/s speed
• Reduces filament waste by up to 5X
• Supports rigid, flexible, and engineering materials

Cons

• Smaller build volume than the 13.8-inch competitors
• Heavier and bulkier footprint at 59.1 pounds
• No mention of included AMS or external filament storage

Good fit if

• You need fast multi-color printing with minimal waste
• You require support for mixed materials like TPU
• You prefer a CoreXY motion system for stability

Skip if

• You need a build volume larger than 270 mm
• You want a lighter or more compact machine
• You require pre-loaded external filament management systems

Verdict: Snapmaker U1 4-Toolhead 3D Printer fits users who prioritize speed and material versatility over maximum build size. It is ideal for makers who want to print complex multi-material parts without managing external filament hubs.

4 Best budget

Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo Multi-Color 3D Printer

Best for: Small spaces and multi-color prints

Multicolor Capacity

Multi-Color

Leveling Type

Full-Auto Calibration

Extruder Type

1-Clip quick swap nozzle

Dimensions

16.8 × 14.8 × 19.5 inches

Weight

22 pounds

View on Amazon: Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo Multi-Color 3D Printer

The Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo includes the A1 Mini printer and AMS lite for multi-color printing. It features 10,000 mm/s² acceleration and full-auto calibration. The build volume is smaller than the larger models on this list. It weighs 22 pounds and measures 16.8 x 14.8 x 19.5 inches. This setup suits users with limited desk space who still want reliable multi-material capabilities without manual adjustments.

Pros

• 10,000 mm/s² acceleration for high-speed printing
• Includes AMS lite for multi-color prints
• Full-auto calibration and leveling
• Active motor noise cancellation keeps noise at ≤48 dB

Cons

• Smaller build volume than the 13.8-inch and 600mm models on this list
• Heavier at 22 pounds compared to some competitors
• Requires AMS lite for multi-color functionality

Good fit if

• You need a compact printer for a small workspace
• You want multi-color printing without manual calibration
• You prefer quiet operation during prints

Skip if

• You require a large build volume for big parts
• You do not want to use an external material system
• You prefer a lighter, more portable setup

Verdict: The Bambu Lab A1 Mini Combo is a compact, high-speed option for users with limited space who need multi-color prints. It fits those who value automated calibration and quiet operation over large build volumes.

5 Best 600mm/s

FLASHFORGE High-Speed Multi-Color 3D Printer

Best for: fast multi-color printing

Build Volume

220x220x220mm

Print Speed

Up to 600mm/s

Multicolor Capacity

Up to 4 colors

Leveling Type

1-Click Auto Leveling

Motion Structure

CoreXY

Extruder Type

Direct drive

View on Amazon: FLASHFORGE High-Speed Multi-Color 3D Printer

The Flashforge AD5X is a CoreXY 3D printer built for speed and color. It reaches 600mm/s with 20,000mm/s² acceleration. The build volume is 220x220x220mm. You get multi-color printing with up to four colors. It includes one-click auto leveling and a direct drive extruder. This model suits you if you want fast prototyping and vibrant results.

Pros

• CoreXY structure with 600mm/s print speed
• Multi-color support for up to four colors
• One-click auto leveling system
• Direct drive extruder with 300°C max temp
• Vibration compensation for stable prints

Cons

• Smaller 220mm build volume than competitors
• No mention of remote monitoring app
• No display screen listed in specs

Good fit if

• You need fast, multi-color prints
• You want a CoreXY motion system
• You prefer direct drive extruders

Skip if

• You require a large build volume
• You need remote app control
• You want a touchscreen display

Verdict: Flashforge AD5X CoreXY offers high speed and multi-color capability. It fits users who prioritize print velocity and color over large build volumes.

6 Also great

ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo 3D Printer

Best for: fast multi-color printing with CoreXY stability

Build Volume

256x256x256mm

Print Speed

500 mm/s

Multicolor Capacity

4-color

Leveling Type

1-Click Auto Leveling

Motion Structure

CoreXY

Color Printing

Multi-Color

View on Amazon: ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo 3D Printer

The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo is a CoreXY multicolor printer with 4-color capacity. It reaches speeds up to 500 mm/s with 20,000 mm/s² acceleration. The system includes smart filament detection and auto-refill for seamless switching. You get automated calibration and active vibration compensation for sharp details. This unit weighs 42.7 pounds and measures 19.7 by 18.9 by 29.3 inches. It suits users wanting speed and multi-material versatility.

Pros

• CoreXY motion structure for stable high-speed printing
• Print speeds up to 500 mm/s
• 4-color multicolor printing with instant switching
• Active vibration compensation for smoother surfaces
• Smart filament detection and auto-refill

Cons

• 4-color capacity is lower than 6-color competitors
• Heavier build at 42.7 pounds
• Larger footprint than mini variants

Good fit if

• You need fast printing with CoreXY stability
• You want automated calibration and monitoring
• You print with engineering-grade materials

Skip if

• You require more than 4 colors
• You need a compact mini footprint
• You prefer lighter portable builds

Verdict: ELEGOO Centauri Carbon 2 Combo delivers high-speed CoreXY performance with reliable 4-color switching. It fits users who prioritize print speed and material versatility over maximum color count.

7 Best grey

Anycubic Kobra X Multicolor 3D Printer

Best for: Native multi-color printing with a 260mm volume

Build Volume

260mm x 260mm x 260mm

Print Speed

600mm/s

Printing Technology

FDM

Multicolor Capacity

Native 4-color, up to 19-color

Leveling Type

LeviQ 3.0 auto-leveling

Extruder Type

Hardened steel nozzle

View on Amazon: Anycubic Kobra X Multicolor 3D Printer

The Anycubic Kobra X offers native 4-color printing with a 260mm cubic build volume. It reaches speeds of 600mm/s and uses a hardened steel nozzle for durability. The LeviQ 3.0 system provides 49-point auto bed leveling. You can expand to 19 colors using ACE 2 Pro units. This grey model includes dual-band Wi-Fi and LAN connectivity for remote monitoring via the app.

Pros

• Native 4-color printing capability
• 600mm/s maximum print speed
• 260mm x 260mm x 260mm build volume
• Hardened steel nozzle for durability

Cons

• No filament included in the package
• ACE 2 Pro incompatible with ACE Pro
• Larger footprint than compact alternatives

Good fit if

• You want native multi-color printing without external boxes
• You need a 260mm build volume for medium parts
• You prefer a grey chassis for your workspace

Skip if

• You require a smaller footprint than 13 inches wide
• You need filament included with the printer
• You want to use ACE Pro units for expansion

Verdict: Anycubic Kobra X Grey 3D Printer suits makers who want native 4-color printing and a 260mm build volume in a grey chassis.

Specifications side by side

Frequently asked questions