Today, we’re starting a series of 3D printer showdowns, starting with the Princes of Polymers: Bambu Lab and Prusa Research. In one corner, we have the Prusa MK4S with an MMU3, Team Orange’s favorite European workhorse. In the other corner, the challenger to the crown, the sleek Bambu Lab A1 Combo.
The philosophies of these two companies reflect the founders of each. Joseph Prusa famously bootstrapped his company as a college student, shipping his first products in pizza boxes. Bambu Lab was started by former engineers from drone maker DJI, who hold doctorates in fluid dynamics and automation. Prusa Research stands for Open Source, community, and DIY tinkering, while Bambu Lab leans into proprietary software, plug-and-play machines, and AI technology.
Both Prusa Research and Bambu Lab have diehard fans, rich ecosystems, and excellent, high quality machines.
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The Prusa MK4S is a classic, with roots going back to the RepRap movement. It’s locked into its form and styling, due to Prusa’s commitment to upgradability. Rather like the Ship of Theseus, it is entirely possible to have bought an MK2 in 2016 and continuously upgraded it to a present day MK4S.