Bambu Lab have officially announced the launch of their new multi-material 3D printer, the Bambu Lab H2C, taking place on 18 November 2025 at 3:00 PM CET—and I’ll be there at Formnext in Frankfurt to witness the reveal in person.
This is shaping up to be one of the most significant announcements in desktop 3D printing for years.
For the past three years, Bambu Lab have been working on a cleaner, more efficient approach to multi-colour and multi-material printing. Their teaser hints at something genuinely ground-breaking: the end of purge waste.
Back in 2022, the X1 series opened the door to accessible multi-colour printing, but the trade-off was always the same—purging. Endless little strings of wasted filament, time lost, and the compromises that every multi-colour printer still struggles with today.
Bambu’s engineers zeroed in on the real culprit: contamination within the hotend. Their solution? Don’t purge—swap the hotend.
Image and Video Credit: Bambulab
Introducing the Vortec Hotend Change System
The H2C is expected to showcase a brand-new technology called Vortec, described as one of the first induction-heated, fully automated hotend-swap systems.
The innovations highlighted in the teaser include:
• Dedicated hotends instead of purging
Like using a fresh paintbrush for each colour. No cleaning required, no cross-contamination, and no filament waste.
• Induction heating in just 8 seconds
Rapid heating without the slowdown of bulky toolheads or complex gantries.
• Wireless data and power sync
Each hotend contains its own chip that communicates temperature, filament data and status to the printer—without cables or pogo pins to wear out.
• No sacrifice in speed, volume or reliability
Rather than adding multiple nozzles or loading a heavy toolhead, Bambu Lab have focused on keeping things fast, compact and robust.
According to Bambu Lab, Vortec represents “the epilogue to the imperfections of X1” and marks their first major step toward eliminating purge altogether.
I’ll Be Reporting Live from Formnext
As The Gadget Man, I’ll be on the ground at Formnext in Frankfurt when the H2C is unveiled. Expect hands-on impressions, photos, early thoughts and—as always—my honest take on whether this could be the next revolution in multi-material 3D printing.
Stay tuned. This could be the moment multi-colour printing finally becomes clean, fast and… uncompromising.
Black Friday has begun early this year, and Anycubic have already launched a wide range of offers running from 10th November to 4th December. If you have been waiting for the right moment to start 3D printing, upgrade your setup, or stock up on consumables, these prices are well worth a look.
The Kobra S1 Max Combo is the latest addition to the Anycubic line-up. Designed for high-speed and large-format printing, it is suitable for those needing room for bigger parts, prototypes, cosplay elements or batch production.
Early Bird Offer (until 24th November): Pay a £50 deposit to secure £100 off.
Pricing Schedule:
Dates
Price
Extra Perks Included
25 Nov – 1 Dec
£749
Includes perks worth £400
2 Dec – 25 Dec
£799
Includes perks worth £350
26 Dec – 31 Jan
£849
Includes perks worth £300
From 1 Feb
£949
Includes perks worth £200
Filament and Resin Sale
Filaments and resins are currently available from £8.49/kg, making this a very cost-effective time to stock up.
This is one of the broadest and most substantial Black Friday collections Anycubic has offered in recent years, covering everything from first-time starter machines to large-format high-speed systems and precision resin printers.
If you are planning a winter project, expanding your workspace, or simply looking to get the best value for your materials, the timing here is ideal.
If you would like help comparing models or working out which machine is right for your requirements, feel free to ask.
Frankfurt’s iconic tech mecca is lighting up the entire AM world with an expanded programme, more gadgets and gear than ever, and enough buzz to make even the most jaded engineer’s pulse quicken. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re heading to Formnext 2025 — or watching from afar.
Three Stages, One Purpose: Exploring AM’s Bright Future
Formnext 2025 isn’t just about rows of 3D printers humming away like digital sewing machines — though, let’s be honest, we do love that too. It’s about conversations that shape the future.
Application Stage (Hall 11.1): From rocket engines to robot arms and even orthopaedic orthoses (try saying that after a few Glühweins), this is where AM meets real-world problems. Focused firmly on cost-effective innovation, this stage is a must for SMEs looking to dip their toes into the world of 3D production.
Industry Stage (Hall 11.0): Topics like sustainability, Design for AM, and even AI-designed consumer goods take centre stage here. Highlights include a keynote retrospective on the last decade of AM and forward-looking discussions on decentralised production – a very big deal as global supply chains continue to shift.
Technology Stage (Hall 12.1): This is where the nerds (my people!) gather to go deep. Think DED tech, large-format plastic printing, and data-driven design. Pack a notebook.
New This Year: Tours, Livestreams &… a Quiz Show?
Formnext 2025 is not content with “business as usual”. The organisers have added a host of interactive new formats that are both educational and entertaining.
Guided AM Tours: Focusing on post-processing (a criminally underappreciated stage in AM), these 90-minute guided walks will be led by experts. Wednesday tours are in German, Thursday in English. No sign-ups, just first-come, first-served — so set an alarm.
Show and Telling LIVE: YouTube’s own 3D Printing Nerd will be broadcasting live on Tuesday. If you’ve ever wanted to geek out in real time with a global AM celeb, now’s your chance.
Ultimate Additive Quiz Show: Because why not have a game show for engineers? Expect equal parts trivia, tension, and titanium.
From Mechanical Marvels to Mushroom Mycelium: The Special Showcases
Here’s where Formnext really flexes its muscles. The 2025 edition will showcase AM in every industry you can imagine:
Additive4Industry (Hall 12.0): Mechanical engineering applications, brought to you by the VDMA.
BE-AM Symposium: Construction gets the AM treatment — and yes, that means 3D printed buildings.
AM Art Space: SUTOSUTO are back to blur the line between technology and art.
AM Innovation & Standards Summit (17 Nov): Standards, compliance, and certification may not be sexy — but they’re essential.
And let’s not forget the Start-up Area and Young Innovators Booth, where tomorrow’s biggest ideas take their first steps. If you’re an investor or just love spotting the next big thing, bring business cards.
Democratising 3D Printing
A real theme running through this year’s show is accessibility. Whether it’s via desktop 3D printers popping up in more industrial contexts or the Discover3DPrinting seminars for curious newcomers, Formnext is making AM approachable for businesses of all sizes.
There’s even a Career Area with job walls, professional headshots, and career advice — because nothing says “ready for your next move” like a headshot next to a 3D printed turbine blade.
The Formnext Awards – AM’s Red Carpet Moment
Awards aren’t just for Hollywood. The Formnext Awards shine a spotlight on groundbreaking technologies, bold young companies, and sustainable solutions — across six hotly contested categories. The twist? You get to help choose the winners via online voting. Cue the drama.
Partner Country 2025: Spain Steps Into the Spotlight
This year’s partner country is Spain, and it’s not just bringing paella and passion. With around 30 companies showcasing breakthroughs in AM systems, materials, and R&D, Spain is strutting its stuff on the global AM stage — and rightly so.
Whether you’re a long-time Formnext fanatic or a first-time visitor still figuring out what “DED” stands for, this year promises to be unforgettable. Ten years in, and Formnext shows no sign of slowing down — in fact, it’s evolving just as quickly as the technology it celebrates.
So dust off your best trade fair shoes, charge your phone (you’ll need it), and get ready to celebrate a decade of additive excellence.
Have you been to Formnext before? What are you most looking forward to this year? Drop your thoughts
Well, this is exciting. The lovely folks at Anycubic have been in touch again, and this time they’ve got something rather special lined up for the 3D-printing world. If you’ve been following my recent adventures in the workshop — shelves of resin bottles, spools of filament, and printers humming away like a busy beehive — you’ll know I’ve been especially taken with Anycubic’s approach to innovation lately.
And now, they’ve gone and done it again.
Introducing the Kobra S1 Max Combo
A brand-new machine built to push desktop 3D-printing further — louder, brighter, more colourful, and more capable of serious engineering-grade work.
This is not just a quiet upgrade. This is one of those big leaps.
Kobra S1 Max ComboKobra S1 Max
What Makes It Stand Out?
The expanded spec list from the official campaign page reveals some key details:
Up to 16-colour printing: Start with one ACE 2 Pro module for 4 colours; combine up to four for the full 16-colour capacity.
Huge build volume: 350 × 350 × 350 mm.
Enclosed, actively-heated chamber up to 65 °C. Hotbed up to 120 °C, hotend up to 350 °C.
Hardened-steel hotend (0.4 mm standard with extra 0.6 mm included), optional 0.25 mm brass / 0.8 mm hardened steel nozzles.
CoreXY motion system, active carbon-filter air purification, WiFi6/Ethernet support, 720p monitoring, spaghetti-recognition AI, U-disk/app control.
Materials covered: from PLA/PETG/TPU right up to engineering-grades like ABS, ASA, PC, PA, PA6-CF, PC-CF/GF, PET-CF.
Put simply: whoever said “desktop printers are only for PLA” is going to have a rethink when this lands.
Early Bird Deal (This One’s Actually Worth It)
Anycubic are running a clever early-bird scheme:
Pay £50 now → receive £100 discount off the launch price (5th November to 24th November)
After that, the pricing rolls through phased levels — each with perks (as previously noted).
£749 (25 Nov-1 Dec) with £400 worth of perks
£799 (2 Dec-25 Dec) with £350 perks
£849 (26 Dec-31 Jan) with £300 perks
£949 (from 1 Feb) with £200 perks
So yes — if you’re thinking about it, the earlier the better.
And Here’s the Extra Bit I’m Excited About…
I’ll be in Frankfurt on the 18th November attending formnext — the global additive-manufacturing expo. It’s basically the Glastonbury of 3D printing: people everywhere talking filament, lasers, printheads, sintering furnaces — heavenly stuff.
I’m absolutely planning to track down Anycubic while I’m there and get a closer look at the Kobra S1 Max Combo in the flesh. Expect photos, impressions, maybe even first-hand print samples — all coming your way.
If you’ve got questions you’d like me to ask the Anycubic team directly, let me know in the comments.
Final Thoughts
This is shaping up to be a very compelling machine:
✔ Larger build volume ✔ Multi-colour support baked in ✔ Enclosed, CoreXY, heated chamber = better reliability ✔ Designed for real materials, not just for show
If it delivers what the specs promise, this could be one of the stand-out printers of 2025 — especially for makers and small business production.
I’ll bring back everything I learn at Formnext — stay tuned.
—
Matt Porter – The Gadget Man Currently surrounded by printers. Not sorry.
Frankfurt is getting ready to host the world’s largest 3D printing and Additive Manufacturing (AM) event once again. From 18–21 November 2025, Formnext will transform the Messe Frankfurt exhibition halls into a showcase of innovation, collaboration, and real-world applications across industries.
This year promises over 800 exhibitors, including some of the biggest names in the AM world alongside a healthy mix of start-ups and research groups. Expect plenty of world premieres, live demonstrations, and a packed programme across aviation, aerospace, engineering, jewellery, watches, and more.
Spain takes centre stage as the partner country for 2025, bringing around 30 companies to Frankfurt. The Spanish AM sector has been growing rapidly and plays an interesting role as a link between Europe and Latin America, particularly strong in systems, materials, and research.
The Gadget Man will be attending formnext
The supporting programme looks just as impressive as the show floor itself. Three stages will run throughout the event, each with a different focus: industry trends, real-world applications, and the latest technologies. Seminars, talks, and showcases will cover everything from large-format 3D printing to data-driven design and construction AM. Add to that the Formnext Awards, start-up pitches, career opportunities, and networking events, and it’s clear this isn’t just an exhibition – it’s the meeting point for the global AM community.
I’ll be there on Tuesday 18 November for the Press Breakfast and then I’m looking forward to catching up with many of the 800 companies, checking out the latest announcements and exploring the halls. It’s always fascinating to see how far the technology has come, and this year looks set to offer plenty of inspiration.
Tickets are available now from formnext.com/visitors, with an early-bird discount running until 21 October.
I’m always excited to bring you news of cutting-edge tech that blends innovation with affordability – and today is no exception. If you’re into 3D printing or thinking about diving into the world of filament fabrication, this announcement is for you!
Say hello to the Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo – a machine that promises to be Vibrant, Versatile, and Visionary. Developed with creators in mind, this latest printer from Anycubic is loaded with features that make it perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike.
Introducing the Kobra 3 V2 Combo – A Vibrant New Chapter in 3D Printing! Super Early Bird Pricing Announced
Super Early Bird Price – Just £359!
From 15th to 18th May, you can grab the Kobra 3 V2 Combo at a stunning £110 off the retail price – just £359 instead of £469! But you’ll have to be quick: this Super Early Bird offer is available for a limited time only.
Early adopters aren’t just saving money – they’re unlocking exclusive perks worth over £100, including:
50% OFF all filament packs (PLA Special, PLA Metal, High Speed, and even random bundles)
£10–£30 Gift Cards (500 winners up for grabs!)
FREE 8-Colour Hub – When purchasing the 8-colour kit version (exclusive to the Kobra 3 V2 Combo)
Mystery Box – Who doesn’t love a surprise?
Free Access to Premium Quality Models to kickstart your print library
This makes it one of the best value 3D printer launches we’ve seen all year.
Colourful, Creative and Capable
The Kobra 3 V2 Combo is designed for multicolour printing straight out of the box. With its smart automatic material station and easy-to-use touchscreen interface, it’s a dream machine whether you’re printing functional parts or jaw-dropping figurines.
Combine that with high-speed capabilities and robust build quality, and you’ve got a machine that’s ready to keep up with your creative demands.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re upgrading your current printer or taking your first step into the world of multicolour 3D printing, the Kobra 3 V2 Combo is a no-brainer – especially at the early bird price.
If you ever dreamed of flying through the trees of Endor like an Imperial Scout Trooper, that dream just took a huge leap toward reality.
On May 1st, 2025, Volonaut officially unveiled their jaw-dropping personal flight machine: the Airbike. Described as a cross between a superbike and a starfighter, the Airbike is a jet-propelled, single-seat hoverbike that looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a sci-fi film—specifically, Star Wars.
Here’s the video below!!
This groundbreaking vehicle is the brainchild of Tomasz Patan, the visionary engineer behind the Jetson ONE. The Airbike, however, ditches propellers in favour of compact jet engines, creating a safer, sleeker, and incredibly futuristic flying experience. It’s built using carbon fibre and 3D-printed parts, making it exceptionally light—seven times lighter than a conventional motorcycle. With speeds topping 200 km/h, it’s no surprise the internet has lit up with excitement.
But Volonaut didn’t stop at just launching a revolutionary vehicle. They’ve timed their big reveal to coincide with the biggest unofficial sci-fi holiday of them all: Star Wars Day.
Over the past few days, Volonaut has been teasing a special video drop scheduled for Sunday, May 4th—Star Wars Day—with a tantalising image of a rider dressed in full Imperial Scout Trooper gear standing next to the Airbike. The promise? A recreation of the unforgettable speeder bike chase from Return of the Jedi, shot through dense woodland, but this time with a real flying machine.
It’s not every day that technology catches up with our childhood imagination, but this might just be one of those times. As a long-time lover of gadgets, sci-fi, and anything that pushes boundaries, I’ll be watching this premiere with popcorn in hand and a big grin on my face.
Video Credit: YouTube / Volonaut
Star Wars Scout Trooper crounching next to the Volonaut Airbike ready for Star Wars Day on May the Forth – Image Credit: LinkedIn / Volonaut
The world of Additive Manufacturing (AM) is about to experience an exciting shift as Spain takes centre stage as the partner country at Formnext 2025. Running from 18–21 November 2025 in Frankfurt, the world’s premier exhibition for AM technologies will showcase the best of Spain’s dynamic AM sector, solidifying its role as a vital player in global manufacturing.
Spain Joins Formnext 2025 as Partner Country, Highlighting its Role as a Global AM Powerhouse
Spain: An Emerging Bridge Between Europe and South America
Spain’s strategic geographical location on the Iberian Peninsula positions it uniquely to connect Europe and South America, making it an ideal partner for this year’s Formnext. With over 30 Spanish exhibitors attending Formnext 2024, Spain has long been a key participant. According to Sascha F. Wenzler, Vice President at Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH, Spain exemplifies how AM can drive growth and innovation even during challenging times.
“Spain’s AM sector is diverse, rapidly growing, and packed with innovation, making it an ideal partner,” said Wenzler. “We’re thrilled to have such incredible AM companies join us in showcasing the next generation of manufacturing technologies.”
A Flourishing AM Industry with Global Impact
With more than 1,200 people employed in the AM sector, Spain is experiencing double-digit growth rates every year. As per the Wohlers Report 2024, 1.5% of the world’s 3D printers are installed in Spain. Companies such as HP Printing and Computing, Meltio, Triditive, and Reinforce 3D are leading the charge, contributing to a highly innovative ecosystem.
The AM sector also benefits from Spain’s robust manufacturing tradition. With a 7.3% increase in production since 2014, Spain outpaces its European neighbours like France and Germany, where manufacturing output has stagnated. This growth has translated into significant revenue, with the machine-tool sector reporting record sales of €2.157 billion in 2023.
Key Industry Players: ADDIMAT and IAM3DHUB
Two major players driving AM adoption in Spain—ADDIMAT and IAM3DHUB—are partnering with Formnext 2025 to further showcase Spain’s influence on the global stage.
ADDIMAT, founded in 2014, operates under the AFM Cluster and comprises over 100 companies across the AM value chain, from machine manufacturers to material suppliers.
IAM3DHUB, based in Barcelona and managed by Leitat, supports companies with AM integration, offering services ranging from feasibility studies to strategic implementation.
These organisations have been instrumental in positioning Spain as a hub of Industry 4.0, fostering innovation across various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and healthcare.
Strong AM Adoption Across Key Industries
Spain’s AM adoption rate is soaring, with 96% of production companies acknowledging AM’s role in speeding up product development, according to a joint study by HP and 3dbpm Research. This has led to impressive growth in machine and service sales, which increased by 24.5% and 36.2%, respectively, in 2022.
AM applications are particularly thriving in industries like aviation, automotive, and healthcare, with innovations such as custom-fitted 3D-printed shoes, patient-specific implants, and surgical guides.
A Platform for Global Recognition
Formnext 2025 will serve as a global platform for Spain’s AM companies to highlight their contributions and innovations, helping them expand their international reach. The event will also include special exhibitions and networking opportunities designed to facilitate further growth.
To explore Spain’s journey in AM and its impact on global manufacturing, don’t miss the special edition of Formnext Magazine in September 2025.
Stay tuned for more updates on Formnext 2025, where cutting-edge technology, innovation, and growth converge to shape the future of manufacturing.
In the world of 3D printing, where innovation drives progress, Elegoo has unveiled a machine set to redefine the industry: the Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga. This isn’t just another addition to the market—it’s a significant step forward in 3D printing technology, poised to open new creative and industrial opportunities. If you’re ready to see what the future holds, let’s dive into why the OrangeStorm Giga is making waves.
Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga: Redefining Large-Scale 3D Printing
Gigantic Build Volume – A New World of Possibilities
At first glance, the most impressive feature of the OrangeStorm Giga is its massive build volume: 800mm x 800mm x 1000mm. But this isn’t just a size upgrade; it’s a game-changer.
For industrial designers, prototyping specialists, and ambitious hobbyists, the ability to print large, seamless models without splitting them into segments saves time and improves structural integrity. Whether you’re producing industrial parts or massive artistic pieces, this functionality transforms what you can achieve.
To truly appreciate the size of this printer, Elegoo has included a video or 3D model mockup of the Giga, showcasing its full potential.
Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga: Redefining Large-Scale 3D Printing
Intelligent and Efficient Heated Bed
Speed and precision are crucial in 3D printing, but efficiency is just as important—and the OrangeStorm Giga nails this balance with its intelligent heated bed system.
The heated bed consists of four independent 410mm x 410mm PEI magnetic high-temperature platforms. These platforms can heat simultaneously to 90°C in just 17 minutes (with an ambient temperature of 25°C), ensuring fast and even heating.
What sets it apart is its ability to automatically recognize and heat only the area beneath the model for increased energy efficiency. Alternatively, users can manually control the heating zones for even more customization.
Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga: Redefining Large-Scale 3D Printing
Fast Printing with High Performance
The Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga isn’t just big—it’s fast. Thanks to its 64-bit 1.5G clock speed quad-core processor (SOC RK3328), this printer delivers print speeds up to 300mm/s (with 150mm/s recommended).
Compared to standard large-format printers, this speed is six times faster. For those working on large projects, faster prints mean quicker iterations, helping you meet deadlines and get creative ideas into production faster than ever before.
Multi-Nozzle Printing for Versatility
One of the standout features of the OrangeStorm Giga is its multi-nozzle printing capability. It supports up to four nozzles on the X-axis, allowing simultaneous printing of four identical models or models in different colours.
This isn’t just about speed and productivity; it’s also about versatility. Multi-nozzle printing enables complex, multi-material designs and offers enormous potential for prototyping and creative experimentation.
Superior Cooling System for Optimal Results
Elegoo has also paid close attention to cooling, which is critical for print quality and machine longevity. The printer is equipped with thicker dual-sided cooling fans designed to keep prints sharp and precise.
Its intelligent control system automatically turns off the fans once printing is complete, reducing noise, saving energy, and extending the life of the hardware—a thoughtful addition for both home users and industrial environments.
Upgraded Nozzle for Precision and Efficiency
The 300°C high-temperature nozzle features a proximal double-gear extrusion structure and a full titanium alloy heat pipe. With a chrome zirconium copper nozzle and a 60W ceramic heating pad, it ensures smoother and more uniform extrusion for improved printing precision.
Additionally, the nozzle includes PID auto-calibration for precise temperature control and a built-in acceleration sensor for resonance compensation, enhancing overall print quality. The standard nozzle diameter is 0.6mm, with optional sizes ranging from 0.4mm to 1mm.
Auto-Leveling for Hassle-Free Setup
Leveling the bed can be a challenge for many users, but the OrangeStorm Giga simplifies this with an automatic leveling system. This ensures accurate prints without the frustration of manual adjustments.
High-Quality Craftsmanship
The OrangeStorm Giga’s design combines durability and elegance. Its integrated body, linear guides on the X and Y axes, and an upgraded Z-axis rod improve stability and extend the machine’s lifespan. The carbon steel round base and rubber anti-slip pads add to the overall robust construction.
Powerful Features for a User-Friendly Experience
Caterpillar Cable Tracks for smooth and organized cabling.
Filament Detection & Power Loss Recovery to ensure uninterrupted printing.
Portable 7-inch HD Capacitive Screen for intuitive operation.
User-Friendly Belt Knobs for easy adjustments.
Large Spool Holder for handling larger filament spools up to 5kg.
Languages Supported: English, French, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese
Machine Size: 1224 x 1164 x 1425 mm³
Weight: 104kg (Net), 145kg (Gross)
Power Supply: 100-120V / 220-240V
In Summary
The Elegoo OrangeStorm Giga is more than just a large 3D printer; it’s a beacon of innovation for the entire industry. Its massive build volume, intelligent heating system, blazing-fast speed, multi-nozzle capabilities, and superior cooling design make it a printer that stands apart from the competition.
Whether you’re an industrial user seeking faster prototyping or a maker with a passion for pushing creative boundaries, the OrangeStorm Giga is the tool you’ve been waiting for.
If you’ve been following my reviews on The Gadget Man, you’ll know I have a deep appreciation for innovation and practicality, particularly when it comes to tech that enables creativity. Enter the Anycubic Kobra S1 – a device that has transformed my 3D printing experience and firmly established itself as an indispensable tool in my workshop. After clocking over 100 hours of printing with this machine, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer in the world of consumer-grade 3D printers.
Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo
Dimensions and Specifications
The Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo boasts a compact yet highly functional design. It operates at 46dB in standard mode and an impressively quiet 44dB in quiet mode, making it suitable for home and office environments. The maximum nozzle temperature of this printer reaches an impressive 320°C, allowing for compatibility with a variety of filament types. Additionally, the print head features a quick-release mechanism, simplifying maintenance and filament swaps. With a build volume of 250 x 250 x 250 mm, it offers ample space for a wide variety of projects while maintaining a manageable footprint. The printer’s enclosed design ensures consistent environmental conditions, and the carbon filter reduces fumes, particularly useful when printing with materials like ABS. The sturdy frame and high-quality components reflect Anycubic’s commitment to durability and reliability. The machine’s heated bed, capable of reaching temperatures up to 120°C quickly, is paired with a magnetic PEI print bed, ensuring excellent adhesion during printing and easy removal of finished models. and its precision extruder provide a professional-grade 3D printing experience.
Anycubic S1 Combo – CoreXY 3D Printer – An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests
Unboxing and Package Contents
The Anycubic Kobra S1 arrives neatly packaged with everything you need to get started. The box includes the main printer components, a toolkit, a sample filament, the 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit, and a detailed user manual. The inclusion of these extras reflects Anycubic’s commitment to delivering value and convenience to users. The unboxing experience is satisfying, and the care in packaging ensures everything arrives in pristine condition.
Assembly and Initial Setup
Straight out of the box, the setup process is impressively straightforward. The clear and concise user manual walks you through installing the print head, screen, and filament holder. Even for those new to 3D printing, the step-by-step instructions make assembly approachable and stress-free. Connecting the multi-colour ACE unit is a simple task, and the machine is designed for intuitive use. Within an hour, I had the printer fully assembled and ready to begin its first calibration.
One standout aspect of the setup process is the printer’s resonance compensation system. During initial configuration, the Kobra S1 moves the print head rapidly in a controlled pattern to measure vibrations. This data allows the printer to adjust and compensate for resonance during printing, resulting in smoother, more accurate outputs. This feature is particularly impressive as it demonstrates Anycubic’s dedication to precision and innovation.
Anycubic S1 Combo – CoreXY 3D Printer – An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests
Software and User Interface
The Anycubic Kobra S1 supports widely-used slicing software like Cura and Anycubic’s own Photon Workshop. It is compatible with a range of nozzle diameters, including the standard 0.4mm as well as 0.2mm, 0.6mm, and 0.8mm options for expanded versatility in project designs. These platforms offer intuitive interfaces and extensive options for fine-tuning your prints. Once the software is installed, connecting the printer is a breeze, and the user-friendly touchscreen interface on the printer itself makes controlling print jobs straightforward. It’s a well-thought-out ecosystem that bridges functionality and ease of use.
Performance and Material Versatility
In terms of performance, the Kobra S1 punches well above its weight. I began with PLA and PLA+, and the results were remarkable. Prints exhibited exceptional precision, fine details, and consistent layer adhesion. The enclosed design minimizes environmental factors, ensuring stable and reliable results.
Venturing into ABS printing was where the Kobra S1 truly shined. The enclosed chamber with a carbon filter ensured stable temperatures, reducing warping and odours. The heated bed and high-performance extruder proved their worth, handling ABS effortlessly and delivering smooth, robust prints. The addition of the multi-colour ACE unit enabled stunning multi-material prints, allowing for creative designs that were previously out of reach with single-extruder systems.
Before using the Kobra S1, I was limited to manual filament changes when attempting multi-colour prints. The Kobra S1’s full support for multi-colour printing has been a revelation, saving time and reducing errors. However, it’s worth noting that the use of prime towers for filament flushing can lead to some filament waste, a consideration for those conscious of material efficiency.
Standout Features
The heating 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Kobra S1. This innovative unit is also heated, allowing for in-print filament pre-heating, which ensures consistent material flow and print quality. The quick-release print head further enhances convenience, making it easy to swap or maintain the unit. The Kobra S1 also supports advanced features like Pressure Advance and Flow Calibration, ensuring optimal performance and precision across a range of printing scenarios. This innovative unit is also heated, allowing for in-print filament pre-heating, which ensures consistent material flow and print quality. This advanced feature facilitates seamless multi-material and multi-colour printing, unlocking unparalleled creative potential. Whether it’s intricate models, functional prototypes, or artistic creations, the ACE unit’s reliability and precision make it a joy to use.
Another highlight is the auto-levelling system. This feature eliminates one of the most common frustrations in 3D printing—manual bed levelling. With the Kobra S1, you can count on a perfectly levelled print bed every time, ensuring optimal print quality from the very first layer.
Safety and Maintenance
Anycubic has also prioritised user safety and maintenance ease. The enclosed design minimizes exposure to fumes, especially when working with ABS. Routine maintenance is simplified with easy access to key components and a helpful guide in the user manual. The sturdy build ensures durability, making this printer a long-term investment.
Value for Money
The Anycubic Kobra S1 stands out as an affordable yet feature-rich 3D printer. Priced competitively, it delivers professional-grade results that rival much more expensive models. With its ability to handle a wide range of materials, including PLA, PLA+, and ABS, and its advanced multi-material capabilities, the Kobra S1 offers exceptional value for hobbyists, tinkerers, and small businesses alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Anycubic Kobra S1 sets a new standard for consumer-grade 3D printers. Its versatility, reliability, and professional-grade performance make it a standout choice for both beginners and experienced makers. From the heating 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit to its intuitive design, exceptional print quality, and advanced resonance compensation system, this printer offers an unparalleled user experience. If you’re in the market for a feature-packed 3D printer that doesn’t break the bank, the Anycubic Kobra S1 is a top contender. Highly recommended!
Don’t forget to enter the special offer code GADGETMAN to get a further £20 discount on your order!
