Bambu Lab’s P1P First Look

Are You Ready to Take the Leap and Try Bambu Lab’s P1P 3D Printer?

The world of 3D printing is constantly evolving, and with the introduction of Bambu Lab’s P1P, it’s clear that this technology is becoming more accessible and affordable for the masses. But is this printer worth the hype, or is it just another addition to the already crowded market?

bambu-labs-p1p-first-look Bambu Lab's P1P First Look

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The Market Gap

Bambu Lab’s P1P is positioned to fill a gap in the market that has been long overdue. With most entry-level printers priced around $200-$300, and high-end machines reaching upwards of $2,000-$3,000, there’s a significant void in the middle. The P1P, priced at 784€ including tax, is an attempt to bridge this gap and provide a premium consumer-grade printer that’s both affordable and high-quality.

Filling the Void

The P1P is not just a stripped-down version of its more expensive counterparts; it’s a carefully crafted machine designed to meet the needs of the modern maker. With a focus on speed, quality, and ease of use, this printer is poised to disrupt the market and set a new standard for what’s possible in the world of 3D printing.

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bambu-labs-p1p-first-look-1 Bambu Lab's P1P First Look

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Speed and Quality

One of the most significant advantages of the P1P is its speed. With claimed accelerations of 20,000mm/s² and a top speed of 500mm/s, this printer is designed to produce high-quality prints at an unprecedented rate. However, it’s essential to take these claims with a grain of salt, as they may be slightly exaggerated.

Real-World Performance

In reality, the P1P prints at about half the speeds claimed by the manufacturer. However, this still translates to a 2-3x print speed increase over a typical bedslinger, with minimal loss of quality. The details look better and sharper than on other printers, and the input shaping calibration before every print ensures a smooth and accurate finish.

Printer Speed Quality
P1P 250mm/s (real-world) High
Typical Bedslinger 100mm/s Medium

bambu-labs-p1p-first-look-2 Bambu Lab's P1P First Look

Noise and Software

The P1P is not the quietest printer on the market, emitting a 50kHz noise when in standby mode. However, this is a minor trade-off for the high-quality prints it produces. The software, on the other hand, is a significant strength. Bambu Lab’s proprietary firmware is based on open-source concepts, including pressure advance, input shaping, and more.

Modified PrusaSlicer

The P1P uses a modified version of PrusaSlicer, with tuned presets for optimal performance. The settings are tweaked for speed, with basic straight-line grid infill as the new default. This may not be ideal for all users, but it’s a compromise that allows for faster print times without sacrificing too much quality.

bambu-labs-p1p-first-look-3 Bambu Lab's P1P First Look

Differentiation and Competition

The P1P is an impressive machine, but it’s essential to consider the reasons behind its design. Are the changes introduced with the P1P a genuine attempt to save cost, or are they a means to differentiate it from the more expensive X1 series and protect the market for that product?

Cost-Cutting Measures

Some of the design choices, such as the lack of a built-in webcam and the use of a more basic LCD screen, may be seen as cost-cutting measures. However, these decisions also allow for a more streamlined user experience and a lower price point.

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Feature P1P X1 Series
Built-in Webcam No Yes
LCD Screen Basic Advanced

bambu-labs-p1p-first-look Bambu Lab's P1P First Look

Conclusion

Bambu Lab’s P1P is an exciting addition to the world of 3D printing. With its impressive speed, high-quality prints, and affordable price point, it’s an attractive option for anyone looking to upgrade their printing capabilities. While it may not be perfect, the P1P is a significant step forward in making 3D printing more accessible to the masses.

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