[3D Printing] Is the Bambu Lab X1E really worth its price?

Hey 3D printing enthusiasts! Since Bambu Lab launched the X1E, there have been mixed opinions about its value. Below, we'll take a deep dive into this machine to uncover why it's so expensive!

The engineering team at 3D Printing Industry recently reviewed the Bambu Lab X1E desktop 3D printer. This machine not only breaks the mold but also sets new standards, possibly even dividing the 3D printing community much like MakerBot did when it departed from RepRap. Essentially, the Bambu Lab X1E is an FDM 3D printer with enhanced network connectivity and a CoreXY printhead, offering astounding speed and reliability.

Since its debut in 2020, Bambu Lab has released several 3D printers, including the X1 Carbon (September 2022), P1P (November 2022), P1S (August 2023), A1 Mini (September 2023)、X1E (October 2023), and A1 (December 2023). Market intelligence firm CONTEXT noted that Bambu Lab's desktop system shipments reported in Q4 2023 grew by 3000% in 2023.

However, the Bambu Lab X1E is not without its critics. Critics primarily point to its cybersecurity issues, which potential users need to consider.

Want to learn more? Continue reading the full report below and our comprehensive test of over 300 hours on Bambu Lab's latest desktop 3D printer!

Bambu Lab X1E 3D Printer (Photo source: 3D Printing Industry)

Key Features and Benefits of the Bambu Lab X1E

The features of the Bambu Lab X1E are designed to solve common problems with desktop 3D printers and enhance the user experience.

This 3D printer's high-speed printhead can reach a maximum printing speed of 500mm/s. Coupled with finely tuned software, it precisely controls the printing process, preventing failures. The combination of the printhead and software significantly reduces print time and improves production efficiency.

The new hotend can reach a maximum temperature of 320°C, while the actively heated build chamber can withstand temperatures of up to 60°C. These features expand the range of usable materials and unlock more application scenarios.

Air filtration comes from coconut shell particle H12 and G3 air purification filters, specifically designed to eliminate toxic fumes released by materials such as caprolactam or styrene. When certain filaments (like ABS and nylon) are heated during the 3D printing process, they release ultra-fine particles (UFP) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These emissions can be harmful, including known carcinogens, irritants, and developmental and reproductive toxicants.

The X1E's heavy-duty air filter minimizes these emissions, ensuring your safety during prolonged use. Its AI anomaly detection uses a micro-radar camera. This reduces material waste and downtime, greatly benefiting users.

Users concerned about security may be interested in the X1E's new features, which now support WiFi WPA2 Enterprise authentication, WLAN/LAN, and Ethernet, improving connection security through encrypted channels. This is ideal for situations requiring offline printing, such as when design files are controlled.

Hardware and Electronic Design and Manufacturing Quality

The X1E boasts a sleek, modern, and stylish appearance. The gray aluminum alloy and glass enclosure measure 389 x 389 x 457 mm and weigh 16 kg, making it an average weight among printers of the same size.

Two rigid carbon fiber rods support the tool head, ensuring stability through a steel base, while two belt-driven stepper motors provide torque in a CoreXY configuration. The heated bed is supported by 3 lead screws, with a larger stepper motor controlling the Z-axis gantry.

Bambu Lab X1E's interior close-up (Photo source: 3D Printing Industry)