BAMBULAB Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer or BAMBULAB Bambu Lab A1 Combo? Which BAMBULAB Model to Buy
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When you compare the bambulab bambu lab p1s 3d printer vs bambu lab a1 combo, you see two capable FDM machines from the same brand. Both offer automatic bed leveling and multi-color printing via add-on systems. The main difference lies in their build structure and speed. The P1S features an enclosed design for advanced materials, while the A1 Combo is an open-frame unit focused on ease of use. You must decide which setup fits your workflow.
Key differences
| Aspect | Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer | Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite (Renewed) |
|---|---|---|
| Printing Speed | 500mm/s | Not listed |
| Acceleration | 20000 mm/s² | 10,000 mm/s² |
| Structure | Enclosed | Open frame |
| Extruder Type | Not listed | 1-Clip quick swap nozzle |
| Dimensions | 18 x 15.3 x 15.3 inches | 16.7 x 21.1 x 23.5 inches |
| Compatible Material | PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, PA, PC | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer if
- You need to print with advanced filaments like ABS or PC that benefit from an enclosed chamber.
- You prioritize maximum print speed with 500mm/s velocity and high acceleration.
- You want a compact footprint with a width of 18 inches.
Choose Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite (Renewed) if
- You want a quick-swap nozzle system for easy maintenance.
- You prefer a machine with active motor noise canceling for quieter operation.
- You are buying a renewed unit that includes the AMS lite for multi-color printing.
Verdict: The P1S is the better choice if you need an enclosed chamber for engineering materials and faster print times. The A1 Combo suits users who want a quieter, open-frame printer with a convenient quick-swap nozzle. Your decision depends on whether material versatility or user-friendly maintenance matters more to you.
P1S vs A1 Combo Specs
Print Speed
The Bambu Lab P1S boasts a print speed of 500mm/s with an acceleration of 20000 mm/s². This allows for rapid production of complex models without sacrificing layer adhesion. In contrast, the Bambu Lab A1 Combo reaches 500mm/s but features a lower acceleration of 10000 mm/s². While both machines share the same linear speed, the P1S’s higher acceleration means it can reach that speed faster and change directions more quickly. This makes the P1S better suited for high-volume jobs where cycle time matters. The A1 Combo prioritizes stability over raw burst speed.
Color Printing
Both printers support multi-color output, but the capacity differs significantly. The Bambu Lab P1S can handle up to 16 colors when connected to the standard AMS system. This allows for complex, vibrant designs with a wide palette. The Bambu Lab A1 Combo includes the AMS lite, which supports up to 4 colors. While sufficient for many creative projects, the A1 Combo is limited in palette variety compared to the P1S. If you require intricate multi-material prints with many distinct hues, the P1S offers greater flexibility. The A1 Combo is ideal for simpler two or four-color designs.
Enclosure
The Bambu Lab P1S features a fully enclosed design, which is critical for printing advanced engineering filaments. This enclosure helps maintain a consistent chamber temperature, reducing warping for materials like ABS, ASA, and PC. The Bambu Lab A1 Combo is an open-frame printer. It lacks an enclosure, making it less suitable for temperature-sensitive materials. The A1 Combo is optimized for PLA, PETG, and TPU. If you plan to print with high-temperature polymers, the P1S is the only viable option. The open design of the A1 makes it more accessible for casual use.
Extruder Type
The Bambu Lab A1 Combo highlights its 1-Clip quick swap nozzle system. This feature simplifies maintenance and allows for rapid nozzle changes, which is convenient for users who switch filaments frequently or need different nozzle sizes. The Bambu Lab P1S data does not specify a quick-swap mechanism in the provided features. It uses a standard extruder setup. While both printers use FDM technology, the A1 Combo’s tool-free nozzle change offers a practical advantage for everyday usability and quick adjustments. The P1S requires more effort to swap nozzles.
Dimensions
Physical footprint is a key consideration for your workspace. The Bambu Lab P1S measures 18 inches in width, 15.3 inches in height, and 15.3 inches in length. It weighs 39 pounds. The Bambu Lab A1 Combo is larger, measuring 16.7 inches in width, 21.1 inches in height, and 23.5 inches in length. The A1 Combo is taller and deeper, requiring more vertical and floor space. The P1S is more compact in height and depth, fitting better on smaller desks. If space is limited, the P1S is the more efficient choice.
Which Bambu Lab Printer Fits You
Users needing advanced material support
The P1S features a fully enclosed design, which improves print performance for advanced filaments like ABS, ASA, PC, and PA. This enclosure protects sensitive materials from temperature fluctuations. If you plan to print engineering-grade plastics or require stable thermal conditions, the enclosed structure of the P1S provides the necessary environment for reliable results that an open-frame printer cannot match.
Those prioritizing speed and acceleration
The P1S offers an acceleration of 20000 mm/s², double that of the A1 Combo's 10000 mm/s². Both machines reach a print speed of 500mm/s, but the higher acceleration allows the P1S to change direction more quickly. This reduces print times for complex geometries with many sharp turns. If rapid production is your priority, the P1S handles dynamic movements more efficiently.
Buyers wanting a compact footprint
The A1 Combo measures 16.7 inches wide, 21.1 inches high, and 23.5 inches long. The P1S is 18 inches wide, 15.3 inches high, and 15.3 inches long. The A1 Combo has a larger volume footprint but a lower profile. If you have limited vertical clearance on your desk or prefer a wider base for stability, the A1 Combo’s dimensions may fit your workspace better than the taller P1S.
The products compared
Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer
Best for: Users needing speed and an enclosed chamber
- Print Speed
- 500mm/s
- Printing Technology
- FDM
- Multicolor Capacity
- Up to 16 Colors
- Leveling Type
- Automatic Bed Leveling
- Motion Structure
- CoreXY
- Features
- High Speed, Enclosed
View on Amazon: Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer Affiliate link
The Bambu Lab P1S is a ready-to-use FDM printer with an enclosed design. It supports speeds up to 500mm/s and acceleration of 20,000 mm/s². You can achieve up to 16 colors when using the AMS. It includes automatic bed leveling and supports materials like PLA, PETG, and ABS. This model weighs 39 pounds and measures 18 by 15.3 inches.
Pros
- Enclosed design for advanced filaments
- Print speeds up to 500mm/s
- Automatic bed leveling
- Supports up to 16 colors with AMS
Cons
- No AMS included in base model
- Heavy at 39 pounds
- Carbon fiber reinforced polymers not recommended
Good fit if
- You need an enclosed chamber for ABS or ASA
- You want fast printing speeds up to 500mm/s
- You plan to add an AMS for multi-color prints
Skip if
- You want a multi-color system included
- You prefer printing with carbon fiber reinforced materials
- You need a lighter or more portable unit
Verdict: Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer suits users who prioritize speed and material versatility. It fits those willing to buy the AMS separately for multi-color work.
Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite (Renewed)
Best for: Multi-color printing with automatic setup
- Leveling Type
- Automatic bed leveling
- Color Printing
- Multi-Color
- Features
- High Speed
- Target Audience
- Beginners
- Dimensions
- 23.5 × 16.7 × 21.1 inches
View on Amazon: Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite (Renewed) Affiliate link
The Bambu Lab A1 Combo includes the AMS lite for multi-color printing. It features a 1-clip quick swap nozzle and automatic bed leveling. Acceleration reaches 10,000 mm/s² for fast, precise results. The unit measures 16.7 by 21.1 by 23.5 inches. This renewed model offers reliable performance for creative projects. It suits users who want color printing without complex setup.
Pros
- Includes AMS lite for multi-color printing
- 1-Clip quick swap nozzle for easy maintenance
- Automatic bed leveling and Z-offset calibration
- Acceleration up to 10,000 mm/s²
Cons
- Renewed condition rather than brand new
- No active enclosure for temperature control
- No mention of Wi-Fi or app control
Good fit if
- You want multi-color printing with AMS lite
- You prefer automatic calibration steps
- You need a compact desktop printer
Skip if
- You require an enclosed chamber
- You insist on a brand new unit
- You need a large build volume
Verdict: Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite is a solid choice for makers who need multi-color capability and automatic setup. It fits users who value speed and convenience over an enclosed environment.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S Enclosed 3D Printer | Bambu Lab A1 Combo with AMS lite (Renewed) |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | 500mm/s | not stated |
| Printing Technology | FDM | not stated |
| Multicolor Capacity | Up to 16 Colors | not stated |
| Leveling Type | Automatic Bed Leveling | Automatic bed leveling |
| Motion Structure | CoreXY | not stated |
| Color Printing | not stated | Multi-Color |
| Structure | CoreXY | not stated |
| Features | High Speed, Enclosed | High Speed |
| Target Audience | Beginners | Beginners |
| Color | Black | Silver |
| Dimensions | 15.3 × 18 × 15.3 inches | 23.5 × 16.7 × 21.1 inches |
| Weight | 39 pounds | not stated |
| Size | P1S (Without AMS) | A1 Combo (with AMS lite) |
| Model | P1S | A1 Combo |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Bambu Lab P1S come with an AMS for multi-color printing?
No, the P1S does not include an Automatic Material System. You must purchase the AMS separately to enable multi-color capabilities. The base unit is designed for single-color printing. This allows you to choose the storage system that fits your specific workflow and budget.
Which model has the larger build volume?
The Bambu Lab A1 Combo offers a larger physical footprint. Its dimensions measure 23.5 inches in length, 16.7 inches in width, and 21.1 inches in height. The P1S measures 15.3 inches in length and width, with a height of 15.3 inches. The A1 Combo provides more space for larger projects.
Is the Bambu Lab P1S enclosed?
Yes, the P1S features a fully enclosed chamber. This design helps maintain stable temperatures during printing. It is ideal for materials like ABS, ASA, and PC. The enclosure protects these filaments from drafts and cooling, ensuring better structural integrity for advanced materials.
What is the weight difference between the two printers?
The P1S weighs 39 pounds. The A1 Combo does not list a specific weight in the provided data. The P1S is a robust, enclosed machine. Its weight contributes to stability during high-speed printing. The A1 Combo is an open-frame design, which may feel lighter.
Can I print with ABS on the A1 Combo?
The A1 Combo is an open-frame printer. It lacks an enclosed chamber to retain heat. This makes it less suitable for printing ABS, ASA, or PC. These materials require consistent temperatures to prevent warping. The P1S is the better choice for these advanced filaments.
Does the A1 Combo include the AMS lite?
Yes, the A1 Combo includes the AMS lite. This system allows for automatic filament switching and multi-color printing. It is included in the box, so you do not need to buy it separately. This setup is convenient for users who want multi-color capabilities right away.