71B6w6d4f1L._AC_UL160_SR160,160_ Review of the Creality K1 3D Printer After Extensive Use

ELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 12K Resin 3D Printer, with Smart Automatic Leveling, 10-Inch 12K Monochrome LCD, 150mm/h Faster Printing Speed,8.62x4.84x8.66 Inch Printing Size

$474.98 (as of December 17, 2024 20:14 GMT +00:00 - )

Get ready to journey through an in-depth look at the Creality K1 3D printer, reviewed by 3DCre8r after using it extensively for one year. This review brings forward the performance nuances, hardware insights, material capabilities, and overall user experience of this cutting-edge printer.

You’ll explore how the speed and quality of prints stack up against older models, how structural enhancements improve functionality, and what materials can be perfectly handled thanks to its high-temperature capabilities. From detailed assessments of firmware updates to practical maintenance tips, this account provides a well-rounded perspective on the Creality K1 as a primary 3D printing tool.

Table of Contents

K1 Long-Term Review: My Thoughts After One Year With the Creality K1 as My Primary 3D Printer

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Introduction and Context

If you’re considering buying a Creality K1 series printer, you’ll want to stay tuned. I bought my K1 on the first day of availability, making this one of the first manufactured K1 printers. My journey with this machine over the past year has been both exciting and enlightening, and in this long-term review, I’ll share my thoughts and experiences on the many great aspects, as well as the few not-so-great aspects of this high-performance 3D printer.

As an early adopter, I knew I would encounter a few bugs that needed ironing out. While this was indeed the case, the incredible performance of the printer more than made up for it. The support from Creality was also a significant help, consistently stepping up to the plate by sending new parts whenever problems arose. So stay tuned till the end to hear my conclusive thoughts on this exciting and somewhat controversial machine.

Performance Assessment

Speed and Quality

From the moment I powered up the Creality K1, one aspect stood out immediately: its speed. Compared to my older, slower printers, this machine was on another level. It wasn’t just about being fast; it somehow managed to maintain superior print quality despite the increased speed. I often found myself mesmerized just watching it work, the fans whirring loudly but not intrusively.

Hardware Insights

Temperature Management

When it comes to heat management, the Creality K1 impresses. The nozzle heats up far quicker than any of my old printers, which is likely due to a higher power heater. While I’m not sure about the exact specifications, the difference is remarkable. Although the bed does take longer to heat up, considering it only needs to reach 45°C to 60°C as opposed to the nozzle’s 200°C to 300°C, the time it takes is entirely acceptable.

Structural Enhancements

One of the key structural improvements on the K1 includes the multi-start Z-axis lead screws, significantly boosting the printer’s speed. On a typical screw, you have a single helix running its length. But with two-start or multi-start screws, there are multiple threads alternating up the screw, allowing for steeper thread angles and further movement per rotation.

The design improvements don’t stop at the screws. The print head and heater have also seen notable enhancements, making them more effective and efficient than ever before. This means greater reliability and performance in the long run.

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Material Capabilities

The high-temperature capabilities of the K1 open the door to using specialized materials like polycarbonate and nylon. Polycarbonate is incredibly strong but can warp easily, requiring special handling. I remember one attempt to print a thick polycarbonate part resulted in the steel print surface peeling off due to thermal stresses. Using binder clips solved one issue but led to another as the adhesive holding the print surface to the bed softened at high temperatures.

Nylon, on the other hand, is perfect for strong, functional parts. I’ve used it to print hooks designed for safely storing my 45lb Olympic barbell. By running them through structural simulations and applying ample safety factors, I ensured these hooks were reliable and strong. While I wouldn’t trust PLA or PETG with such tasks, nylon’s toughness makes it a viable material for demanding applications.

User Experience and Maintenance

Print Bed and Spatula

The print bed on the Creality K1 is smooth and untextured, providing an excellent surface for prints. The included plastic spatula is ideal for removing prints without damaging the bed, making it a thoughtful and effective addition to the kit. The design seems intuitive now, but the notched build plate aligning with rear locating screws is an elegant solution for ensuring the plate drops into the correct position every time.

Customer Support

Dealing with Creality’s customer support has generally been a positive experience. They’re responsive and quick to send replacement parts when issues arise. It’s a relief to know that help is readily available, given that early models often have teething issues.

Serviceability

Working on the K1 is mostly straightforward, though some screws can be challenging to access. An easy upgrade is adding grips to hex keys, improving handling and making maintenance less of a chore. Despite a few design quirks, the printer is user-friendly when it comes to repairs and upgrades.

Firmware and Updates

Significant firmware updates have dramatically enhanced the K1’s performance and reliability over the past year. Early on, I experienced issues like the nozzle plunging into the bed or under-extrusion. However, these bugs have been addressed through firmware upgrades, leading to a much more stable machine. These updates have not only resolved critical issues but have also improved overall functionality and user experience.

Load Handling and Accessories

While the filament spool’s positioning at the rear can be inconvenient, it’s manageable once your print space is optimized. The addition of rubbery vibration isolators has been a game-changer, preventing the printer’s feet from slipping off and ensuring smoother operation.

Personal Recommendations

When contacting customer service, it helps to be concise and polite. Providing detailed information in your initial communication can greatly speed up the support process. Clear descriptions and relevant details help the support team understand and address your issue more effectively.

Overall Satisfaction

Overall, I couldn’t be happier with the Creality K1 as my primary 3D printer. Its speed, quality, and reliability make it a fantastic machine for both casual and professional use. I was so impressed that I added a K1 Max to my collection for additional capabilities and convenience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Creality K1 offers great value for money, especially when compared to earlier, more expensive models. Its high performance, enhanced features, and excellent customer support set it apart in the 3D printing world. If you own or are considering purchasing a Creality K1, I highly recommend sharing your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Your insights could be invaluable to others in the community.

Thank you for staying tuned, and I hope this review helps you make an informed decision about the Creality K1. Happy printing!

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