In the ever-evolving landscape of 3D printing, a breakthrough can sometimes be a rarity. However, the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon 3D printer, equipped with its Automatic Material System (AMS), boldly pushes the boundaries, challenging the conventional designs that have long dominated desktop 3D printing.

Born from the innovative minds of five former high-ranking officials at DJI, a brand synonymous with high-performance drones and gimbals, this device is more than just an average 3D printer. Its impressive suite of features, from LiDAR-assisted bed leveling to a high-temperature hot end capable of handling complex materials, immediately differentiates it from the market’s familiar offerings.

The X1 Carbon not only represents a significant leap in technology but also the potential future trajectory of consumer 3D printing.

It’s a refreshing divergence from the typical bed-sliders and underscores a transition from basic, budget-friendly models to sophisticated, efficient, and user-centric devices. The X1 Carbon is truly poised to redefine our expectations, positioning itself as a potential game-changer in the world of 3D printing.

X1 Carbon 3D Printer Specifications:

X1 Carbon 3D Printer Setup and Calibration are a Breeze

The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon with AMS promises a streamlined and efficient setup, a characteristic often desired but rarely delivered in the realm of 3D printing. Upon unboxing, the first thing that catches the eye is the Automatic Material System (AMS), a feature central to the X1 Carbon’s unique offerings. However, before one dives into setting up the AMS, it’s important to carefully unscrew the machine’s parts as indicated by the clearly marked red arrows on the printer’s interior. This ensures the printer’s safety and longevity.

The AMS represents a step forward in filament management. With the capacity to handle up to four different filament types and colors, it simplifies the often-tedious task of filament setup. Even more impressive is the AMS’s ability to “read” Bambu Lab’s proprietary filament chips, automating the importing of filament settings. This level of automation is reminiscent of the intuitive technologies found in today’s smart devices.

Connecting the touchscreen interface is straightforward, with clear indicators for correct orientation. Once the front setup is complete, attention shifts to the back, where tubes and cables need to be connected. Fortunately, distinct connector sizes eliminate guesswork, ensuring each part finds its right place.

A crucial aspect of the setup is ensuring the printer’s stability. As with any precision instrument, its location matters. For the X1 Carbon, this means positioning it on a solid, level surface. Doing so not only guarantees safety but also the quality of the prints it produces.

Calibration, a step that can be daunting for many, is rendered user-friendly with the X1 Carbon. Vibrations during this process are normal and are part of the printer’s self-adjustment routine. Once calibrated, it’s time to load the filament into the AMS.

Here, users will find desiccant packs inside the AMS – an inclusion that demonstrates Bambu Lab’s attention to detail. By keeping moisture at bay, these packs help maintain filament quality.

Loading the filament is intuitive. Upon initiating the feed process, the AMS’s internal motors spring to life, drawing in the filament. With the filament in place and the AMS sealed, the X1 Carbon is primed and ready for action.

In conclusion, the setup process for the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon with AMS is a testament to the company’s commitment to user-centric design. By combining simplicity with efficiency, they’ve crafted a 3D printing experience that is both accessible and sophisticated.

X1 Carbon 3D Printer: Print Quality and Performance

After analyzing multiple firsthand experiences, the Bambu Lab X1 stands out in the realm of print quality and performance. Here are the salient points:

• First Impressions: The initial setup and commencement of printing on the X1 is straightforward and hassle-free. The printer is designed to minimize user intervention, letting novices and experts alike jump right into the printing process.
• Print Plate Efficiency: The dual-sided print plate, with its “Cool” and “Engineering” sides, provides versatility in handling various materials. Whether it’s basic filaments like PLA or more advanced ones like carbon fiber, the X1 delivers consistent quality. The Lidar-assisted leveling and first-layer inspections ensure that adhesion issues are virtually non-existent.
• Performance Consistency: The performance of the X1 has garnered positive feedback. Users highlight the minimal number of issues they face during printing. When issues do arise, such as blockages, the system quickly notifies users. A notable point is the efficiency in multi-material or multicolor printing, although the X1 Carbon variant does produce a noticeable amount of filament waste.
• Speed and Quality: While the calibration processes like vibration checks and filament extrusion assessments may take up a good portion of the print time, once the X1 gets going, it’s impressively fast. This speed does not come at the expense of quality, which remains top-notch.
• Sound and Operation: Although the printer produces distinct sounds, such as banging and shaking during its operation, these noises are standard. They do not reflect any issues or malfunctions but are just a part of its operating mechanism.

In summary, the Bambu Lab X1’s print quality and performance rank highly. Users can expect consistent results, minimal interruptions, and a balance between speed and precision. However, potential users should be cognizant of filament waste during specific types of prints, especially with the X1 Carbon variant.

Bambu Lab X1 Carbon AMS System

The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon AMS (Automated Material System) emerges as a notable innovation in the 3D printing space, setting itself apart with its meticulous attention to detail and enhanced printing flexibility. Here’s a consolidated review based on multiple user insights:

Technical Proficiency: The AMS has three core components: the Filament Slots, the Filaments Hub, and the Filament Buffer. Each of these play a pivotal role in ensuring optimal printing. The four individual Filament Slots, equipped with their own motors and sensors, offer precise filament management by actively controlling its movement. This means that the filament feeding is not just passive; it’s responsive and intelligent.

Unparalleled Multi-Material Capabilities: One of the main draws of the AMS is its ability to handle multiple filament spools simultaneously. The potential to connect four AMS units through a hub is nothing short of impressive, expanding the possibilities to a staggering 16 different filaments for a print job. Such capabilities, however, come with a caveat – while color changes are now broadened, they demand additional time and material for nozzle cleaning.

User-Friendly Indicators: The transparency of the AMS material offers a visual cue about the filament colors loaded, and the distinctive white LED lights provide a real-time status of which filament is currently active. These simple yet effective features enhance the user experience and minimize potential printing errors.

Integrated Moisture-Protection System: While 3D printing, filament moisture can be a significant concern, especially for hygroscopic materials. Bambu Lab’s AMS takes a proactive approach with its Moisture-proof System. The humidity sensor, desiccant packets, and airtight silicon rubber O-rings collaborate to keep the interior environment dry, safeguarding the filament quality.

RFID and Compatibility Features: The RFID system is a standout, effortlessly recognizing Bambu Lab filament spools and updating the slicer software. However, the AMS system, while pioneering, does present some compatibility restrictions. Materials like TPU or those on cardboard spools aren’t ideal candidates for the AMS. While Bambu Lab recommends its filaments for a seamless experience, they do offer solutions like printing direct spools from provided files to enhance compatibility.

Concerns and Drawbacks: Users need to be wary of filament types and spool materials. Softer materials like TPU might encounter hitches within the device, and the friction challenges presented by cardboard spools may impact the longevity and functionality of the AMS’s roller system. The drive for eco-friendliness in the 3D printing community makes the cardboard spool incompatibility a minor setback.

Conclusion: The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon AMS System is a significant leap towards automating and enhancing the 3D printing experience. Its ability to juggle multiple filaments, coupled with the intricate sensor network, makes it a luxury add-on for serious enthusiasts. While it has its limitations, the overall functionality, especially with the added moisture control and user-friendly indicators, makes it a worthy investment for those seeking to elevate their 3D printing capabilities.

Conclusion

The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon AMS System is undeniably a game-changer in the realm of 3D printing. Meticulously engineered, this system showcases a harmonious blend of sophisticated professional-grade features at a price point more accessible to hobbyists.

Our deep dive into its functionalities highlighted not only its groundbreaking multi-filament capabilities, moisture protection, and RFID integration but also its rather minor limitations. While every pioneering technology has its nuances, the AMS System stands as a testament to the blend of innovation and practicality that Bambu Lab brings to the table.

For enthusiasts transitioning to a more professional approach or pros seeking a cost-effective solution without compromising on quality, the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon AMS System is a beacon of what the future holds in 3D printing.

FAQ

What is the AMS feature in the X1 Carbon 3D printer?

AMS, or Automated Material System, is a prominent feature of the X1 Carbon 3D printer. It allows the printer to manage multiple filament spools, with the potential to handle up to 16 different colors when using the AMS Hub. This facilitates complex multi-color and multi-material printing with ease.

Can I use any filament with the X1 Carbon’s AMS?

While the X1 Carbon’s AMS is versatile, Bambu Lab recommends using its proprietary filament spools, especially those equipped with RFID for seamless integration with the Bambu Studio slicer. Some filament types, like TPU and damp PVA, are not recommended as they might get stuck in the device. Additionally, filaments on cardboard spools may pose compatibility issues.

How does the X1 Carbon 3D printer handle moisture control?

The X1 Carbon comes with a built-in moisture-proof system that includes a humidity sensor, desiccant packets, and silicon rubber O-rings. This system ensures your filaments remain dry. If humidity levels exceed the set standard, the sensor will notify users to replace the desiccant bags.

How does the RFID system work with the X1 Carbon printer?

The RFID system in the X1 Carbon can automatically identify the RFID tags on Bambu Lab filament spools. This integration allows the printer to sync filament information directly to the Bambu Studio slicer, optimizing print settings and providing a smoother user experience.

Can the X1 Carbon 3D printer accommodate eco-friendly filament options?

While the AMS system might pose some challenges with cardboard spools due to compatibility with its rollers, the X1 Carbon does allow users to print their own filament holders. This offers flexibility and supports the use of eco-friendly solutions, like filaments attached to cardboard spools.

*(We sometimes earn a commission for purchases made through our links. Please see the ‘Disclosure’ link at the bottom of this page for more information.)