The Bambu Lab A1 (256x256x256mm build) and A1 Mini (180x180x180mm) are open-frame printers for PLA, PETG and TPU, while the P2S shares the A1's 256x256x256mm volume but adds an enclosed chamber for ABS, ASA, PA and PC. All three hit 500mm/s top speed with Bambu's Direct Drive extruder.
If you’re wondering which Bambu Lab 3D printer model will best suit your needs, read on as we share a side-by-side comparison of the Bambu Lab A1, A1 Mini, and P2S models to help you make the perfect choice.
| Spec | Bambu Lab A1 | Bambu Lab A1 Mini | Bambu P2S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Build volume | 256x256x256mm | 180x180x180mm | 256x256x256mm |
| Extruder / nozzle | Direct Drive, 0.4mm high-flow | Direct Drive, 0.4mm high-flow | Direct Drive, improved cooling, 0.4mm stainless steel |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, TPU (to 300°C) | PLA, PETG, TPU (to 300°C) | PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, PET, ABS, ASA, PA, PC |
| Top speed / acceleration | 500mm/s, 10,000mm/s² | 500mm/s, 10,000mm/s² | 500mm/s, 20,000mm/s² |
| Noise | Under 48dB | Under 48dB | Not stated |
| Enclosed chamber | No | No | Yes |
Bambu Lab A1
The Bambu Lab A1 is a quiet, efficient, high-speed 3D printer. Its user-friendly design gives beginners and intermediate users the opportunity to step into multi-color printing at an affordable price.
It’s ideal for most standard 3D prints, from tools, toys, and household organisers to masks, dioramas, and phone cases.
Build Volume, Extruder Type, and Material Type
The standard-size Cartesian printer has a build volume of 256 x 256 x 256 mm (10 x 10 x 10 inches). It boasts a user-friendly, full color 2.4-inch touch screen interface, an optional AMS Lite module, and quick-change nozzles aided by active flow rate compensation.
The Bambu Lab A1 features a Direct Drive extruder type and a 0.4mm high-flow nozzle for rapid and precise printing. It’s compatible with PLA, PETG, and TPU materials, with its hot end capable of reaching up to 300°C.
Assembly and Set-up
The Bambu Lab A1 requires a simple setup process before use, starting with attaching the gantry to the base using the screws provided. Then, install the spool holder and filament wiper, and click on the optimal AMS unit before securing it to its stand.
The A1 also utilises automatic vibration calibration to accurately calibrate the device on both its X and Y axes, resulting in more precise printing sessions.
Printing Speeds and Platform
The A1 has a top printing speed of 500 mm/s and an acceleration rate of 10,000 mm/s². It utilises a PEI-textured, heated spring steel sheet build platform with automated bed leveling built in.
It’s also exceptionally quiet thanks to its active motor noise cancellation, which keeps noise levels under 48 dB.
Connectivity
The Bambu Lab A1 offers WiFi and Bambu-Bus connectivity, and can also accommodate Micro SD cards. The printer can be connected to your smartphone using the Bambu Handy App, allowing you to access the MakersWorld menu and print instantly with a wide selection of pre-designed templates and project blueprints.
Bambu Lab A1 Mini
The Bambu Lab A1 Mini is designed specifically for users new to 3D printing. Its functional features and affordable pricing allow you to efficiently print miniatures, models, toys, artistic pieces, and other hobbyist creations.
Build Volume, Extruder Type, and Material Type
The A1 Mini’s petite build volume of 180 x 180 x 180 mm (7 x 7 x 7 inches) is best suited to smaller projects and builds. Like the A1, it features a Direct Drive extruder with a 0.4mm high-flow nozzle and an automatic filament run-out sensor built in.
It’s compatible with PLA, PETG, and TPU material types, handling hot end temperatures of up to 300℃.
Assembly and Set-up
One of the Bambu Lab A1 Mini’s key user-friendly features is its easy assembly process. The printer arrives almost entirely pre-assembled, requiring only the installation of its spool holder, AMS module, and filament wiper, as well as plugging in its Bowden tubes before use.
Printing Speeds and Platform
The A1 Mini’s printing speeds can reach up to 500mm/s with a maximum acceleration performance of 10,000mm/s².
This printer is compatible with three printing platforms: the Bambu Textured PEI Plate, the Bambu Smooth PEI Plate, and the Bambu Dual-Texture PEI Plate, supporting automatic leveling and a maximum build plate temperature of up to 80°C. Its silent mode keeps its noise output below 48 dB.
Connectivity
The Bambu Lab A1 Mini supports Wi-Fi and Bambu-Bus connectivity and has a Micro SD Card slot for effortless storage. Its interface can be controlled via its intuitive Touch Screen, the Bambu Handy App, or the Bambu Studio.
Its access to the MakersWorld design menu also makes it easy to build pre-designed projects with just a few clicks.
Bambu P2S
The Bambu P2S builds on the success of the P1 series with upgraded performance, enhanced reliability, and improved material handling. Designed for speed, precision, and versatility, the P2S supports Bambu Labs’ popular AMS and AMS Lite modules for multi-material and multi-color printing.
Its fully enclosed chamber, improved thermal stability, and refined motion system allow you to print everything from hobbyist pieces to advanced and even engineering-grade functional parts. Additional premium features, such as activated carbon air filtration, power loss recovery, vibration compensation, and a live-view camera integrated into Bambu Studio, ensure a smooth and consistent printing experience.
Build Volume, Extruder Type, and Material Type
With a build volume of 256 x 256 x 256 mm (10 x 10 x 10 inches), the Bambu P2S is well-suited for a wide range of printing projects and designs. The machine comes complete with a Direct Drive extruder, improved cooling, and a 0.4mm stainless steel proprietary nozzle.
It can print with materials such as PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, PET, ABS, ASA, PA, and PC, as well as engineering materials like PAHT-CF/PET-CF and other composites, while maintaining hot end temperatures up to 300°C.
Assembly and Set-up
The P2S arrives pre-assembled, requiring only minimal setup. Attach the spool holder or AMS Lite (if purchased), connect the printer to power, and complete the guided startup sequence.
From there, the Bambu P2S printer can be powered on and connected to the P2S to Bambu Handy via Wi-Fi to run the initial self-test, load filament, and print the built-in calibration model before beginning your first project.
Printing Speeds and Platform
The Bambu P1S can reach top speeds of 500mm/s and 20,000 mm/s acceleration. It features automatic bed levelling, a heated PEI-textured spring steel sheet platform, and a welded steel chassis enclosed in a durable glass-and-polymer chamber.
Connectivity
Use the integrated touchscreen interface to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, or transfer files via the built-in MicroSD card slot.
As with all Bambu printers, the P2S provides full access to MakerWorld, Bambu Studio, and the Handy App for remote monitoring, cloud slicing, and workflow management.
Find Your Ideal Bambu Lab Printer at Envirolaser 3D
Envirolaser 3D brings you all of Bambu Labs’ most popular 3D printer models, including the A1 Mini, the A1, and the P2S.
Whether you’re a hobbyist with creative plans in mind or an experienced printer looking to produce high-quality functional parts, explore our range today to find the Bambu Lab printer that best suits your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the build volume of the A1 compared to the A1 Mini and P2S?
The A1 and P2S both have a 256x256x256mm build volume; the A1 Mini is smaller at 180x180x180mm.
Can the A1 and A1 Mini print ABS?
No. They're rated for PLA, PETG, and TPU up to 300C; the enclosed P2S adds ABS, ASA, PA, PC, PVA, and PET.
How fast do the A1, A1 Mini, and P2S print?
All three reach a top speed of 500mm/s. The A1 and A1 Mini accelerate up to 10,000mm/s2; the P2S up to 20,000mm/s2.
How noisy are the A1 and A1 Mini?
Both run below 48dB during printing.
Does the A1 Mini come pre-assembled?
Yes, almost entirely, you only install the spool holder, AMS module, and filament wiper, and plug in the Bowden tubes.
What extruder and nozzle does each printer use?
The A1 and A1 Mini use a Direct Drive extruder with a 0.4mm high-flow nozzle; the P2S uses a Direct Drive extruder with improved cooling and a 0.4mm stainless steel proprietary nozzle.
How do these printers connect and get managed?
All three connect via Wi-Fi (P2S also supports Bluetooth) and accept Micro SD cards, controlled through the Bambu Handy App, Bambu Studio, and MakerWorld.
Which Bambu Lab printer does Envirolaser 3D recommend?
Pick the A1 Mini for compact/budget needs, the A1 for full-size PLA/PETG/TPU work, and the P2S for enclosed printing with ABS, ASA, PA, or PC.