Introducing the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer review by Clough42. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the various aspects of this printer and provide an honest assessment. The review covers everything from the printer’s features and specifications to its print quality, software applications, and availability of replacement parts. We’ll also discuss some challenges encountered during testing, including bed adhesion difficulties and noise levels. Ultimately, we’ll share James’ recommendation on whether or not to purchase this printer based on his six-week experience and 300 hours of usage. So let’s dive right in and uncover all the details you need to know about the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer!

Facts, Features, and Statistics about the Printer

The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is equipped with several notable features that make it a standout option in the market. Firstly, it is a core XY 3D printer, which means it operates on a unique movement system that allows for precise and fast printing. Additionally, the printer boasts a fully enclosed chamber, providing a controlled environment for optimal print quality and reducing the risk of warping or shrinkage in the printed objects.

One of the key features of the X1-Carbon is its carbon fiber gantry. This lightweight and durable material ensures stability and accuracy during the printing process. Combined with the printer’s fast printing speed and high accelerations, it allows for significantly faster print times compared to many other 3D printers on the market.

The printer offers a 256mm build volume, providing ample space for printing larger-sized objects. It also features a heated bed, which is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion of the printed object to the build surface. The X1-Carbon comes with various flexible build plates, allowing users to choose the best surface for their specific printing needs.

To ensure precise and accurate printing, the X1-Carbon is equipped with mesh bed leveling. This feature eliminates the need for manual adjustment of the Z height and ensures consistent first layer adhesion. The printer also utilizes an advanced calibration system, consisting of a down-facing camera and a dual laser lidar system. This system enables the printer to calibrate various print parameters, such as flow rates and pressure, and scan the first layer for defects.

The X1-Carbon is designed with cloud-connected capability, allowing users to monitor and control their prints remotely. It comes with two software applications: Bamboo Studio for slicing and Bamboo Handy for monitoring prints. These user-friendly applications provide a seamless printing experience and make it easier for users to navigate the printing process.

In terms of availability and pricing, the X1-Carbon offers readily available replacement parts at reasonable prices. This ensures that users can easily find and purchase any necessary components for maintenance or repairs.

Overall, the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer combines a range of innovative features and technologies to deliver fast and high-quality prints. Its combination of speed, accuracy, and convenience makes it an attractive option for both professional and hobbyist users.

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Availability and Pricing of Parts

One important factor to consider when purchasing a 3D printer is the availability and pricing of replacement parts. The X1-Carbon stands out in this aspect, as it offers readily available replacement parts at reasonable prices.

Having easily accessible replacement parts is essential for the longevity and maintenance of any 3D printer. Parts may occasionally wear out or break due to regular use, and being able to quickly replace them is crucial to minimize downtime.

The X1-Carbon’s manufacturer, Bambu Lab, ensures that users can easily find and purchase replacement parts for their printer. This includes common components such as nozzles, belts, motors, and other components that may require replacement over time.

Furthermore, the pricing of these replacement parts is reasonable, making them accessible to a wide range of users. This affordability ensures that maintaining and repairing the printer is not overly costly or burdensome.

Having access to readily available replacement parts at reasonable prices provides peace of mind to users of the X1-Carbon. It eliminates the frustration of waiting for extended periods or paying exorbitant prices for parts, making the overall ownership experience more positive and manageable.

Speed of the Printer

The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer prides itself on its exceptional speed, which is one of the standout features of this machine. The printer’s marketing claims are indeed impressive, with reported speeds of up to 500 millimeters per second and accelerations of 20 meters per second squared.

While these numbers may seem impressive on paper, it’s essential to understand their practical implications. When printing the pre-sliced Benchy boat model that comes preloaded on the printer, it can finish in a jaw-dropping 20 minutes. This certainly makes for an exciting display of the printer’s capabilities. However, it should be noted that such a fast print speed may not be practical for all types of prints.

In real-world scenarios, using the default profiles in the slicer software, the X1-Carbon still performs significantly faster than many other 3D printers on the market. For example, a print that takes four hours on a Prusa Mark III can be completed in just one hour on the X1-Carbon. Similarly, a 24-hour print on the Prusa Mark III can be finished in six hours on the X1-Carbon.

The X1-Carbon’s exceptional speed has several advantages for users. It allows for quicker iteration and prototyping, enabling multiple design iterations in a single day. This means users can receive feedback on their designs sooner, fix problems faster, and see the results of their changes more quickly. This accelerated process of feedback and adjustment significantly increases productivity when prototyping and even in production settings.

The speed advantage is also apparent when considering production printing. In comparison to other printers, the X1-Carbon can produce a higher volume of parts in a shorter time frame. For example, when printing 12 spacers for an electronic lead screw on another printer, such as the GDI Fast, it might take four hours. However, on the X1-Carbon, it can produce 18 spacers in just two hours, resulting in significantly higher production output.

In summary, the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer’s speed is a remarkable feature that offers faster print times, increased productivity, and quicker design iteration, making it an excellent choice for users who value efficiency and time-saving capabilities.

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Print Quality

While speed is undoubtedly a crucial factor in choosing a 3D printer, print quality is equally important, if not more so. The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer delivers impressive print quality, surpassing expectations for a printer in its price range.

The built-in benchmark Benchy boat provides a good indication of the printer’s print quality, even at its highest speeds. When printed at insane speeds of under 20 minutes, the Benchy boat comes out incredibly clean and precise. The model showcases crisp details, impressive overhangs, and minimal stringing or other artifacts.

The X1-Carbon also excels when printing more challenging models with intricate overhangs and fine details. For example, the clock spring torture toaster is printed with Bamboo Lab PLA Basic material and features excellent overhang performance up to 80 degrees. Additionally, the clearance test sliders demonstrate smooth movement and minimal binding, with the exception of the 0.1 millimeter clearance slider, which proved difficult to move.

The Maker’s Muse puzzle cube demonstrates the printer’s capabilities when printing with finer layer heights. The 0.12 millimeter layers produce a beautifully finished product, showcasing clean overhangs and precise details.

Furthermore, the printer’s ability to handle different materials is commendable. The X1-Carbon successfully prints a bracket for the Prusa Mark III light bar using PLA, Flash Forge ASA, and carbon fiber nylon. The resulting parts exhibit crisp features and clean surfaces, with some variations in texture depending on the material used.

Overall, the print quality of the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is highly satisfactory. It consistently delivers clean and precise prints, even at high speeds. The printer’s capabilities when handling overhangs, fine details, and different materials make it a reliable choice for users who prioritize print quality in their projects.

Overview of the Bambu Studio and Bambu Handy Software

The Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is accompanied by two software applications: Bambu Studio for slicing and Bambu Handy for print monitoring. These applications aim to provide users with a seamless and user-friendly experience throughout the printing process.

Bambu Studio is the software used for slicing, which is the process of converting a 3D model into instructions that the printer can understand. The software offers intuitive features and controls that allow users to prepare their models for printing quickly and efficiently. Users can adjust print settings such as layer height, infill density, and support structures, ensuring the desired quality and functionality of the printed object.

Bambu Studio provides a user-friendly interface that simplifies the slicing process, making it accessible to users of all levels of experience. The software also facilitates integration with the X1-Carbon printer, ensuring seamless communication and compatibility between the two.

Bambu Handy, on the other hand, is a software application designed for print monitoring and remote control capabilities. This cloud-connected software allows users to monitor their prints remotely, offering convenience and flexibility. Users can keep track of the progress of their prints, pause or cancel jobs if necessary, and receive notifications upon completion.

The integration of Bambu Handy with the X1-Carbon printer enables users to remotely control and monitor their prints. This feature provides an added level of convenience and flexibility, allowing users to manage their printing jobs from anywhere with an internet connection.

Both Bambu Studio and Bambu Handy have been developed with a focus on user-friendliness and ease of use. The applications aim to streamline the printing process, minimize complexities, and ensure a seamless experience for users.

Not Open Source

One important aspect to consider when evaluating the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is its open-source status. While open-source printers have their advantages, it’s important to note that the X1-Carbon falls under the category of closed-source printers.

Being closed-source means that the inner workings and firmware of the printer are not openly available for modification or customization by the user community. This can limit the ability to make changes or enhancements to the printer’s software or hardware.

The closed-source nature of the X1-Carbon does have its pros and cons. On the positive side, closed-source printers often offer a more streamlined and user-friendly experience, as they are designed and optimized by the manufacturer. This can result in a more intuitive and accessible printing process for users.

However, the closed-source nature of the printer also means that users may have limited control over certain aspects of the device. For users who enjoy tinkering and customization, this may be a drawback. Additionally, the closed-source nature could limit the availability of third-party modifications, upgrades, and community-driven improvements.

Ultimately, the decision of whether a closed-source printer like the X1-Carbon is suitable for an individual user depends on their priorities and preferences. While open-source options often provide more flexibility and customization possibilities, closed-source printers can offer a more polished and user-friendly experience out of the box.

Difficulties with Bed Adhesion

One aspect that users may encounter when using the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is difficulties with bed adhesion. Bed adhesion refers to the ability of the printed object to adhere securely to the build surface during the printing process.

Some users have experienced challenges with bed adhesion when using the X1-Carbon’s cool plate. The cool plate is one of the flexible build plate options that the printer offers. While it provides convenience in terms of easy removal of printed objects, it may present challenges when it comes to initial adhesion.

The cool plate’s low-temperature surface can sometimes lead to insufficient bonding between the printed object and the build surface. This can result in prints detaching or warping during the printing process, leading to failed or imperfect prints.

However, it’s important to note that this issue can be mitigated with various solutions. Some users have found success by adjusting print settings, such as increasing the initial layer height or modifying the bed temperature. Additionally, experimenting with different adhesion aids, such as using a 3D printing adhesive or a brim, can also help improve bed adhesion.

While difficulties with bed adhesion can be frustrating, it is a common issue encountered with many 3D printers. The key is to experiment with different techniques and settings until an optimal solution is found. With proper troubleshooting and adjustment, bed adhesion issues can generally be overcome on the X1-Carbon printer.

Heat Beds Are Not Completely Flat

Another aspect to consider when using the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is that the heat beds may not be completely flat. A flat heat bed is essential for achieving a level print surface and ensuring proper adhesion of the printed object.

Due to various factors, such as manufacturing tolerances or wear over time, the heat beds of the X1-Carbon may exhibit slight deviations from perfect flatness. This can result in an uneven print surface and potentially affect the quality and accuracy of the prints.

To address this issue, it is recommended to perform regular checks and calibrations of the heat bed. This can involve using tools such as a feeler gauge to assess the flatness of the bed and making necessary adjustments to ensure a level printing surface.

While it may require some additional effort and maintenance, ensuring the flatness of the heat bed is crucial for obtaining high-quality prints. By addressing any deviations in flatness and regularly monitoring the bed, users can maintain consistent print quality and prevent potential issues related to an uneven print surface.

Discussion on Noise Levels and “Poop Chute”

One factor that may be of consideration for users of the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer is the noise level during printing. The noise produced by 3D printers can vary significantly depending on the model and its mechanisms.

While the X1-Carbon printer is known for its fast printing speed and high accelerations, these factors can also contribute to increased noise levels during operation. The enhanced movement and speed of the printer may result in louder sounds compared to slower and less advanced models.

It’s important to note, however, that noise levels are subjective and can vary depending on individual tolerance and the specific environment in which the printer is placed. Some users may find the noise level of the X1-Carbon to be acceptable, while others may consider it louder than desired.

Another topic of discussion related to the X1-Carbon is the so-called “poop chute.” This term refers to the part cooling duct of the printer, which has received some criticism regarding its design and effectiveness.

The poop chute has been described by some users as insufficiently effective at cooling the printed object, particularly in areas with overhangs or bridges. Insufficient cooling can result in poor print quality, including issues such as overhang sagging or stringing.

Addressing the challenges associated with noise levels and the poop chute can involve various strategies. For noise reduction, users can consider isolating the printer in a dedicated area, utilizing sound-dampening techniques or enclosures, or adjusting the printer’s positioning to minimize noise propagation.

Regarding the poop chute, some users have experimented with modifying the cooling duct design or adjusting the fan speed to improve cooling performance. Additionally, using slower print speeds or adding supports to problematic areas can also help mitigate cooling-related issues.

Despite these discussions regarding noise levels and the poop chute, it’s essential to keep in mind that user experiences and perceptions can vary. What may be considered loud or ineffective by some users may be deemed acceptable or manageable by others.

James’ Experience with the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D Printer

To provide firsthand insight into the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer, let’s delve into James’ experience after using the printer for six weeks and accumulating 300 hours of printing time.

James received the X1-Carbon printer free of charge from Bambu Lab for the purpose of using it and providing feedback. While he was not obligated to do a review or showcase the printer on his channel, he decided to do so after experiencing the printer’s capabilities firsthand.

Impressed with the printer’s performance during the initial testing period, James made the decision to purchase a second X1-Carbon printer with his own funds at full retail price. This highlights his confidence in the printer’s abilities and his willingness to invest in additional units for his printing needs.

Throughout the six weeks of usage, James found the X1-Carbon to be highly productive and reliable. He highlights the printer’s fast printing speed as a significant advantage, allowing for shortened cycle times and increased capacity. James emphasizes that this speed advantage allowed him to prototype and iterate on designs more rapidly, leading to quicker feedback and design improvements.

While James encountered some challenges during his usage, such as difficulties with bed adhesion, heat bed flatness, and noise levels, he expresses overall satisfaction with the printer. He acknowledges that these challenges are common in the 3D printing realm and can be mitigated with troubleshooting and adjustments.

James invites others to share their experiences and tips regarding the X1-Carbon printer in the comments section. This open dialogue encourages users to exchange knowledge, techniques, and solutions, fostering a supportive community and providing additional resources for those using the printer.

James’ positive experience and his willingness to share his thoughts and insights on the X1-Carbon printer add credibility to its capabilities and benefits. His endorsement of the printer, despite acknowledging certain challenges, indicates its value and potential for users seeking a productive and reliable 3D printing solution.

In conclusion, James’ experience with the Bambu Lab X1-Carbon Combo 3D printer showcases the printer’s strengths and highlights its potential for enhancing the printing process and boosting productivity.

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