There is a quiet shift happening in the world of toys. Away from noisy plastics and fixed instructions, and towards objects that invite imagination, patience and pride of place. The TRIDO Laguna range sits firmly in that space, and it is easy to see why it is gaining so much attention.
Created by TRIDO, Laguna is a premium magnetic construction set designed not around winning or finishing, but around thinking, building and displaying. It is less about knock-it-down play and more about creating something worth keeping on the shelf.
Why This Minimalist Magnetic Toy Is Taking Over Creative Play
Built for Expression, Not Instructions
At the heart of every Laguna set are TRIDO’s distinctive geometric forms. Octahedrons, tetrahedrons and half-tetrahedrons, each engineered to connect on every side. Strong internal magnets mean pieces snap together effortlessly, giving complete freedom to explore form, balance and symmetry without frustration.
There are no instructions to follow and no final model to replicate. Instead, children are encouraged to experiment, rebuild and refine. It turns play into a creative process rather than a task, which is a refreshing change from many construction toys that funnel children towards a single outcome.
Why This Minimalist Magnetic Toy Is Taking Over Creative Play
A Toy That Feels at Home in Grown-Up Spaces
One of the standout aspects of the Laguna range is its visual design. The calm, modern colourway feels deliberate and considered, making it something that happily lives in a family space rather than being hidden away in a toy box.
This is a magnetic construction toy that invites display. Finished builds feel sculptural, and with the included magnetic eyes, creations can become expressive characters as well as abstract forms. It blurs the line between toy, art object and learning tool in a way that feels genuinely thoughtful.
Why This Minimalist Magnetic Toy Is Taking Over Creative Play
Open-Ended Play With Real Benefits
Laguna is designed for children aged three and up, and the benefits go well beyond entertainment. Open-ended play supports imagination, confidence and problem-solving, while naturally introducing early STEM concepts such as geometry and spatial awareness.
Fine motor skills are developed through precise placement and balance, and the lack of rules makes it equally suitable for independent play or collaborative family sessions. It is also completely screen free, which feels increasingly important in modern homes.
All pieces are made from durable, non-toxic ABS plastic with smooth, rounded edges, designed to last through years of use without losing their appeal.
Three Sizes to Grow With Your Creativity
The Laguna range is available in three sizes, making it easy to choose a set that fits both budget and ambition.
Laguna Small
A compact introduction to TRIDO, ideal for younger children, travel or gift giving.
12 pieces. £44.90
Laguna Medium
More pieces allow for more complex designs, characters and storytelling.
24 pieces. £79.90
Laguna Large
The most expansive set, perfect for collaborative play, classrooms or long creative sessions.
34 pieces. £129.00
Each size builds on the same core idea, meaning sets can be combined as creativity grows.
More Than a Magnetic Construction Set
TRIDO Laguna shows that magnetic construction toys do not have to be about speed or destruction. By focusing on art, imagination and thoughtful design, it creates something that grows with the child and continues to feel relevant well beyond the early years.
Laguna Small, Medium and Large are available now from trido.uk. For families looking for a toy that encourages creativity without noise or screens, this minimalist magnetic set makes a very strong case for itself.
There’s a smell that stays with me from my earliest forays into additive fabrication — the warm tang of PLA as fresh layers nestle into place under a glowing nozzle, the low hum of stepper motors dancing through another night of prints in my workshop. Over the years I’ve watched the 3D printing landscape evolve, machines becoming faster, more capable and kinder to the budding maker. Today there’s a fresh breeze on the horizon as Elegoo lifts the curtain on its latest creations: the eagerly anticipated Centauri Carbon 2 and its fully fledged sibling, the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo.
Elegoo Unveils a New Chapter in Desktop 3D Printing with the Centauri Carbon 2 Series
Traditionally, multicolour 3D printing has been a pursuit laced with complexity. Intricate purge towers, multiple extruders or tool-changing heads are often the price of entry. Elegoo’s new Carbon 2 family promises to change that narrative. With a CANVAS multicolour system that handles up to four filaments and even lets you switch colours mid-print, the Combo aims to bring vibrant, multi-hued prints to makers who might otherwise shy away from such workflows.
The heart of both machines remains faithful to what made the original Carbon such a joy: a CoreXY motion platform that sings with precision and speed, and a 256 × 256 × 256 mm build area that gives you room to dream — be it scenic terrain for your table-top battles or functional parts for your next project.
For those who relish material versatility, the Carbon 2 and Combo step things up with a 350 °C hardened steel nozzle, letting you venture beyond PLA into PETG, TPU and engineering-grade filaments that demand a bit more heat. Auto-leveling and intelligent sensor systems help reduce the faff of setup, giving you more time at the keyboard tweaking slicer settings or sipping tea as layers stack into life.
Watching a four-colour print unfold is something special. The transparent glass door on the Combo lets you glimpse that slow symphony of motion as filament dancers on their own tiny stages blend and separate to form gradients and patterns that used to be the exclusive domain of much larger machines.
From a personal perspective, the arrival of these printers feels like watching a familiar friend return from an extended journey having brought back new skills and stories. There’s a tangible sense that desktop additive fabrication is growing up, without leaving the joy of hands-on making behind.
Both models are now available direct from Elegoo’s UK store and global channels, with the Combo bringing multicolour creativity within reach of hobbyists, educators and professionals alike. Prices start at an accessible point for what is fundamentally a step change in capability, and if you’ve ever found yourself yearning for more expressive prints without wanting to wrestle with complexity, these new Carbon 2 machines may be the ticket.
As with all tools of creation, the true magic isn’t in the spec sheet or glossy launch photos — it’s in the quiet hours spent watching your imagination take shape, layer by patient layer.
Every so often a product lands on my desk that pulls me straight back to the excitement of discovering music on a physical format. This week it is the WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition from We Are Rewind, a modern portable cassette player created with the band’s full blessing and visual flair.
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
If you grew up with cassettes, you will remember the thrill of flipping an album over, hearing the clunk of the keys, and watching the spools spin. This special edition brings all of that back with a welcome dose of modern engineering. Even better, it arrives with a fresh cassette reissue of Pop Trash, complete with those familiar metallic and neon touches that have always followed Duran Duran through their career.
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
A cassette player built for the present day
The WE-001 looks and feels like something from the band’s own design board. The aluminium shell has a satisfyingly weighty feel, the buttons have a smooth mechanical action, and the audio side of things has been taken very seriously. A dedicated headphone amplifier gives the tapes far more presence and clarity than the portable players many of us owned the first time round.
It connects to wireless headphones and speakers thanks to Bluetooth and charges by USB C, giving around twelve hours of playback. It even records. Plug in a powered mic or use the line input and you can capture your own mixtapes in proper analogue fashion.
For anyone who wants the full nostalgic experience, a pencil is included in the box. You know exactly what that is for.
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
A collaboration with real heart
The band’s creative art director Andrew Day summed up the project perfectly. When Pop Trash came out, streaming barely existed. Two and a half decades later, celebrating the album with a beautifully designed cassette player feels surprisingly right. He described the finished product as “more Pop and less Trash”, which is a very neat way of putting it.
We Are Rewind founder Romain Boudruche added that Duran Duran’s long history with physical media made the project a natural fit. At a time when music discovery is often reduced to an endless scroll of digital tracks, it is refreshing to see an artist celebrate the value of something you can actually hold.
Interestingly, UK cassette sales rose by more than two hundred percent in the first quarter of this year, so the timing could not be better.
Duran Duran teams up with We Are Rewind for a gorgeous new cassette player
Price and availability
The WE-001 Duran Duran Special Edition is priced at £149 and is available directly from We Are Rewind. If you are a fan of the band, a lover of physical media, or simply someone who enjoys a beautifully built gadget, this is well worth a look.
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
There’s something oddly thrilling about letting technology take creative control. I’ve spent years testing gadgets, reviewing innovations, and exploring the limits of artificial intelligence — but this time, I let the tech get a little more personal.
A few weeks ago, I asked Midjourney — my go-to AI image generator — a simple question: “What would The Gadget Man look like with a fresh new hairstyle?”
The result was, quite frankly, impressive. The AI produced a series of strikingly realistic portraits featuring a textured, platinum-blonde cut that looked part cyberpunk, part 21st-century rockstar. I loved it. The catch? It wasn’t real… yet.
The AI Concept
Armed with a few reference prompts and an experimental mindset, I spent an evening fine-tuning the digital version of myself. Midjourney, in its infinite wisdom, decided that bleached hair and choppy texture were the future of The Gadget Man brand.
At first, it was just a bit of fun. But the more I looked at the AI render, the more I realised — this was something I could actually pull off. So, I decided to make it happen.
Turning AI Into Reality
I booked an appointment with my stylist and brought along the AI images on my phone — full 360-degree green-screen shots of the “digital me.” It’s not every day you walk into a salon and say, “I’d like this look, please — it was designed by artificial intelligence.”
To their credit, they didn’t flinch. Instead, we broke it down into human-achievable steps:
The Cut: Short, faded sides with plenty of texture on top.
The Style: Tousled and natural, with enough lift to keep things casual.
The Colour: A cool, silver-white platinum tone — bold but clean.
The Result
Wait and see!!!
AI as a Creative Partner
This little experiment isn’t just about hair — it’s about what happens when AI moves from the screen into the real world. Whether it’s designing products, testing ideas, or in this case, reinventing a hairstyle, AI has become a kind of creative partner.
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
Coming soon: a behind-the-scenes video of the full transformation — from my original hairstyle to the final platinum reveal. Keep an eye on The Gadget Man socials for the big unveil.
If you grew up in the 1980s, you’ll remember that unmistakable feeling of loading a game on your ZX Spectrum, Commodore 64, or BBC Micro. The hypnotic screech of the cassette loading, the colour bars flickering on screen, and that eternal moment of suspense — would it load this time, or had the tape stretched just enough to doom you to a R Tape Loading Error?
Loading the KLF Adventure
Fast forward to the 2020s and, somewhere between my love of retro computing, The KLF’s music, and an itch to make something creative, I decided: I’m going to write a text adventure game. Not just any text adventure, but one dripping with late-night 80s energy, pop culture references, and a healthy dose of KLF mythology.
The KLF Adventure Begins
It started innocently enough — I wanted to relive the magic of the Scott Adams-style adventures I played as a kid. Those games weren’t about graphics; they were about imagination. Every location, every object, every strange instruction was something you had to picture in your head. And if you were a bit obsessive (guilty), you’d spend hours mapping every room on graph paper.
Finding the Right Ingredients
The KLF have always been masters of mystery — their story threads through pop hits, art projects, strange performances, and burning a million pounds on a remote Scottish island. That mix of chaos, humour, and myth-making was perfect for a game world.
I started building a map: fictional places merged with real ones from KLF history. Bold Street in Liverpool. The Cavern Club in the 1960s. A boathouse with a roaring fire. And, naturally, Trancentral — the spiritual HQ of The KLF. I even included surreal locations like the “Little Fluffy Cloud Factory” and “Maze of Caves” for that dreamlike adventure feel.
Travel Back in Time to The Cavern Club in 1961
The NPCs? Oh, they had to be special. Sigmund Freud gives cryptic instructions. Ivan Pavlov demands you “Lie Down” before telling you to “Keep Calm”. Even Denzil the Baker makes an appearance, along with other nods that KLF fans will appreciate.
Building It Like It’s 1984 — With a 2025 Twist
I didn’t just want to write about the 80s — I wanted it to feel like the 80s. So I coded the game in a modern environment but kept the old-school constraints: short descriptions, tight vocabulary, and a parser that understands commands like GO NORTH, GET TICKET, or SAY CHILLOUT.
Don’t get stuck in the record industry execs meeting!!!
But here’s the twist — I didn’t do it alone. My coding partners were Gemini CLI and OpenAI Codex, coding with me directly in my command line. The imagery was created using ChatGPT, with animations by Midjourney. The music came courtesy of Suno, while the sound effects were crafted by ElevenLabs. Together, these AI tools became my team of coders, designers, composers, and consultants, enabling me to bring this game to life in a way that would have been impossible on my own.
And because I couldn’t resist going full retro, I’ve also been experimenting with encoding the game into audio so it can be loaded into a ZX Spectrum emulator straight from a physical cassette tape. Because why not?
Timeslips abound in Bold Street with alternate timelines showing Mick Hucknall driving the Ice Kream Van!
The Result
What emerged is The KLF Adventure — part game, part interactive art piece, and part love letter to the days when imagination did the heavy lifting. It’s an 80s-inspired world you can explore, puzzle over, and get gloriously lost in. It rewards curiosity, nods knowingly to KLF lore, and might just make you say “What Time Is Love?” at least once.
For me, this wasn’t just a coding project. It was a way of reconnecting with that kid who sat cross-legged in front of a rubber-keyed Spectrum, waiting for the next adventure to begin. Only now, I’m the one writing the adventure — with a 21st-century team of AIs by my side.
You can even find me in the game… But where?
If you fancy diving in, the game is live at klfgame.co.uk. Just remember: keep your wits about you, don’t trust every whisper, and above all… CHILLOUT. Twice.
Do you love gaming but now find yourself wishing that it could be more fun? You are not alone. It is a situation that many people find themselves in. This is despite the fact that graphics and tech capabilities are greater than ever.
So, how can you restore the fun factor to your gaming activities? Here’s all you need to know.
Win Money
If you play modern titles, you’ll be familiar with in-game purchases. Players often spend more money on them than they do on the game itself. However, you can nowgrab free spins on registration at casino and bingo sites. Rather than paying out more money to play a game you’ve already paid for, you could win money.
The financial rewards are great. In truth, though, the thrill of winning gives you a dopamine hit that most video games no longer do. Another way to earn money from gaming is to enter tournaments or play eSports.
Play Retro Games
When playing today’s games, it feels like all features are aimed at microtransactions and long-term investments. Back in the day, games had a “pick up and play” quality. Retro games ranging from Pac-Man topopular platformers of the 80s and 90s are far simpler. You can play for an hour and then not worry about them.
You don’t need to dedicate half of your life to the game. You simply have some fun for the duration of play before doing something else. This more balanced approach to gaming will enhance your life in and out of those activities.
Focus On The Fun
Whether playing retro games or modern titles, the focus should be on fun. There’s no need to worry about completing a game to 100% of doing things a certain way. It’s meant to be a recreational activity. So, don’t be afraid to embracecheats or skip sections that you don’t want to do. The aim is to have fun.
Similarly, there should be no pressure to keep playing a game beyond the point you want. If you’ve completed the main story and want to try another title, go for it. This has to be a smarter move than boring yourself just to keep up with other gamers.
Invite Friends Over
When you think about all the fun you had playing games in yesteryear, it’s not just about the great titles. In truth, the company you shared those moments with was an equally key factor. While jumping in a Call of Duty online lobby is great, there’s nothing like being in the same room as friends. Do not ignore it.
It’s not something you’ll do as often as you did in your youth. Still, inviting pals over to play games and havesome snacks is great fun. And it’s certainly cheaper than a night out on the town. Embrace it.
Combine Gaming With Another Love
The one thing that we do love about modern gaming is that it opens the door to doing things your way. Therefore, you may find that streaming or content creation is the perfect way to rediscover your love of gaming. Not least because it encourages you to join the community and find people with similar interests.
Or your love of gaming could be combined with creative writing, films, or other entertainment. The options are endless. And if you can alter your approach to rediscover a love of gaming, it has to be worthwhile.
Sometimes, you have an idea so out there, you just have to run with it. That’s exactly what happened with my latest experiment—writing, editing, and publishing a book in under 24 hours. Yes, you read that right: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter went from a concept swirling in my head to a fully published book faster than you can say “Bob’s your uncle.” Now, before you start expecting War and Peace or something that’ll win a Pulitzer, let me set the record straight: this book is meant to be a laugh. So, get that tongue planted firmly in your cheek and read on!
A Silly Idea Turned Into Reality
I’ve always loved Cockney rhyming slang. There’s something so playful and creative about it, and being a tech nerd, I thought, “Why not merge the two?” With that spark of inspiration and a challenge I set for myself, the idea was born: a humorous book that reimagines the world of tech with Cockney flair. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney would be a light, fun read for anyone who’s ever wondered what you’d call a smartphone (a “dog”) or a smart speaker (a “chirper”) in the East End’s colourful lingo.
But then I upped the stakes: I decided to see if I could write, edit, and publish the whole thing in less than 24 hours. Why? Because life’s too short not to try ridiculous things.
You can buy and read Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney right now and very soon in physical paperback at https://amzn.to/40QzUnI
Don’t Expect High Art—This Is Pure, Unfiltered Fun
Let’s be clear: you’re not about to read a literary masterpiece. This isn’t War and Peace or The Great Gatsby. It’s more like a mate telling you stories down the pub, but instead of talking about football, I’m rambling about gadgets and tech in Cockney slang. This book was written fast, with lots of tea, laughter, and a “who-cares-if-it’s-not-perfect” attitude. If you’re looking for a deep exploration of tech or a polished manual, you might be barking up the wrong tree.
But if you’re after a book that doesn’t take itself seriously, one that pokes fun at tech jargon while teaching you some cheeky Cockney phrases, this might be your cup of rosie-lee.
The Writing Process: Fuelled by Tea and Banter
Once the idea hit me, I got to work with one goal: get it done before the clock ran out. I wrote chapter after chapter, each filled with witty slang, light-hearted anecdotes, and ridiculous comparisons between tech gadgets and everyday London life. Need to know why Wi-Fi is like a “Skyhook” or why a computer’s operating system is the “Guv’nor”? I’ve got you covered.
To keep it fun and breezy, I didn’t worry too much about polishing every sentence. It was all about the charm, the humour, and the Cockney twist. The result? A book that feels like a good ol’ natter with a mate—unpolished, maybe a bit rough around the edges, but full of character.
Editing and Formatting: It’s Good Enough
I gave the manuscript a quick once-over (yes, quick), fixing the obvious typos and ensuring the Cockney slang made sense. But did I spend hours agonising over sentence structure or tweaking every paragraph? Absolutely not. This was about speed and spirit, not perfection. Think of it like street food: messy, but oh-so-satisfying.
I also threw in a handy Cockney slang glossary at the end, so you can brush up on your rhyming slang while giggling at the tech comparisons.
The Cover: Simple, Bold, and Straight to the Point
When you’ve only got 24 hours, you don’t spend ages designing a cover that rivals The Da Vinci Code. I kept it simple and bold, with the title front and centre: Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney by Matt Porter. The cover hints at the humour inside without giving too much away—exactly how I like it.
Publishing: The Final Countdown
With just minutes to spare, I uploaded the book to the publishing platform, hit “Publish,” and breathed a sigh of relief. I did it! A fully published book in less than a day.
Why I Did It
Let’s face it, we all overthink things sometimes. This project was a reminder to embrace spontaneity, take risks, and have fun with creativity. You don’t always need months of preparation or endless rewrites to make something worth sharing. Sometimes, done is better than perfect.
Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney isn’t meant to change your life, but it just might make you chuckle, and that’s good enough for me.
What to Expect When You Read It
Lots of laughs: If you’ve ever struggled to explain tech to your nan or been baffled by a new gadget, you’ll feel right at home.
Cockney charm: From “whirligigs” to “dog and bones,” the slang is in full force.
Zero seriousness: This book is pure entertainment, so don’t come looking for an academic breakdown of microchips.
Final Thoughts: Take It with a Pinch of Salt (and a cup of ‘rosie’)
If you’re the kind of reader who enjoys a bit of banter, a bit of tech, and a whole lot of Cockney rhyming slang, this book is for you. But remember: it’s all in good fun. Don’t take it too seriously—just sit back, grab a cuppa, and enjoy the ride.
So, there you have it. My little 24-hour experiment, wrapped up and ready for you to enjoy. Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney is out now on Kindle and will be available very soon in paperback (As soon as I have approved the… Proof), and I hope it brings you as many laughs reading it as I had writing it.
Cheers,
Matt Porter
February 2025
📚 Want a bit of tech banter with a Cockney twist? Grab your copy of Gizmos and Gadgets in Cockney on Kindle now, and don’t forget to keep that tongue firmly in cheek.
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!
As 3D printing continues to weave its way into our lives—from prototyping and manufacturing to hobbyist creations—there’s a unique phenomenon that many of us in the maker community have either experienced or pondered: the act of watching a 3D print come to life. Whether you’re the creator of the object or a casual observer, the sight of a nozzle meticulously layering molten plastic can evoke a surprising array of emotions.
But the question remains: is it truly satisfying to watch a 3D print? And does the experience differ for the person who designed the print versus a general viewer? Let’s explore this fascinating intersection of technology, creativity, and psychology.
The Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo offers an internal camera for both viewing live print job via the mobile app or slicing software along with a time-lapse function (which you can see above featuring the construction of a ‘poop-bin’).
Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo
The Creator’s Perspective
For those of us who have spent hours—sometimes days—designing a model, watching it come to life can feel akin to witnessing a sculptor carving marble. The experience is deeply personal, tied to the creative process and the anticipation of seeing your vision materialise.
There’s also a practical aspect: watching a print unfold can provide critical insight into potential design flaws. The layers reveal everything, from the perfect flow of filament to those dreaded moments when a miscalculation results in spaghetti-like chaos. For the creator, this isn’t just satisfying—it’s a vital part of refining their craft.
But let’s be honest: once the novelty wears off, even the most enthusiastic maker might find the process a tad monotonous. After all, watching a large print can take hours, if not days. Remote monitoring via a video link often becomes a preferred alternative—practical, yes, but does it carry the same visceral satisfaction?
The Viewer’s Perspective
For the uninitiated, the spectacle of a 3D printer at work can be downright mesmerising. There’s something hypnotic about the rhythmic movements of the print head, the hum of the stepper motors, and the slow but steady transformation of raw filament into a tangible object.
Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are filled with time-lapse videos of prints, condensed into seconds or minutes. These videos are undeniably satisfying, combining the visual appeal of precision engineering with the gratification of seeing a project completed in record time. But is the live experience equally captivating?
Casual viewers often find the real-time process relaxing but not necessarily engaging for extended periods. Much like watching a pot boil, the anticipation can sometimes outpace the actual event. Still, there’s a niche group of enthusiasts who liken the experience to watching a campfire—soothing, meditative, and strangely addictive.
The Role of Remote Monitoring
Remote monitoring adds an interesting layer to the debate. For creators, tools like OctoPrint or a webcam setup allow for constant oversight without being tethered to the printer. This practical solution can also serve as a bridge between creators and viewers, enabling live streams of prints for a global audience.
Most modern printers now come equipped with built-in cameras and the ability to create time-lapse videos. Open-source tools like OctoPrint have even enhanced this experience by homing the print head during time-lapse capture, resulting in cleaner and more engaging footage. These advancements not only make monitoring more practical but also elevate the viewing experience for creators and audiences alike.
However, the satisfaction derived from remote monitoring often depends on the context. Is it a high-stakes print with intricate details? Or a simple functional piece? For viewers tuning in remotely, the experience can feel less immersive but still enjoyable, especially when paired with commentary or a clear narrative about the object’s purpose.
The Verdict
So, is watching a 3D print satisfying? The answer, unsurprisingly, is subjective. For creators, the process can be a blend of satisfaction, anticipation, and anxiety. For viewers, it’s often a mix of curiosity and relaxation, with the level of engagement varying based on personal interest.
Perhaps the real magic lies in the shared appreciation for the technology. Whether you’re a maker checking for flaws, a viewer marvelling at the process, or someone enjoying a time-lapse on social media, 3D printing offers a unique window into the intersection of art and engineering.
So, next time you find yourself mesmerised by a print—either in person or remotely—take a moment to reflect on what it is that holds your attention. Is it the satisfaction of creation, the joy of discovery, or simply the hypnotic beauty of precision in motion? Whatever your answer, one thing’s for sure: 3D printing continues to capture our imagination, one layer at a time.
