Analysis

Bambu Lab P1S Analysis: Specifications and Performance

The Bambu Lab P1S, released in 2023, is a CoreXY FDM printer with a fully enclosed frame and high-speed printing capabilities, designed for users who need an automated workflow with technical materials. Named best desktop 3D printer of 2023 by VoxelMatters, it occupies the middle tier of the Bambu Lab lineup — above the open-frame P1P and below the X1 Carbon (which adds a LiDAR sensor and touchscreen).

Performance and Mechanics

The CoreXY kinematic system enables a maximum speed of 500 mm/s and 20,000 mm/s² acceleration, paired with integrated vibration and pressure advance compensation. The direct-drive extruder delivers a maximum flow rate of 32 mm³/s — sufficient for high-viscosity materials such as ABS or ASA. Auto-mesh bed leveling ensures a reliable first layer without manual intervention. Noise in standard mode is approximately 45–50 dB, and the enclosure includes an activated carbon filter to capture VOC emissions.

• Build volume: 256 × 256 × 256 mm.
• Max nozzle temperature: 300 °C (all-metal hot end).
• Max bed temperature: 100 °C.
• Bed surface: Dual-Sided Textured PEI Plate.
• Max volumetric flow: 32 mm³/s (measured with ABS at 280 °C).
• Power draw: ~1,000 W at 220 V.

Connectivity and Ecosystem

The P1S features integrated Wi-Fi, a built-in 720p camera for remote monitoring and timelapse, and compatibility with the Bambu Lab AMS. A single AMS unit handles up to 4 filament spools; chaining up to four AMS units enables multi-color printing with up to 16 colors. The printer is managed via Bambu Studio (PC/Mac) or the Bambu Handy mobile app. In addition to Bambu Studio, OrcaSlicer is widely used with the P1S for its advanced calibration profiles.

Supported Materials

The enclosure stabilizes the ambient print environment, making the P1S well-suited for materials sensitive to drafts. While it does not include an actively heated chamber, the combination of full enclosure and heat generated during printing supports most technical filaments.

• Standard materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA.
• Supported technical materials: ABS, ASA, PA (nylon), PC (with appropriate settings).
• The hardened steel nozzle handles abrasive-filled filaments such as carbon fiber and fiberglass composites.

User Profile

The P1S is a strong fit for makers and professionals who need a ready-to-print enclosed machine with minimal setup, and who regularly work with ABS, ASA, or nylon. Its AMS compatibility also makes it a compelling choice for users who want to explore multi-color printing without a fully open-frame printer.

It is not the best choice for users who specifically require an actively heated chamber (no current Bambu Lab model includes one as standard), for those who need LiDAR-assisted first-layer inspection (a feature exclusive to the X1 Carbon), or for budget-focused buyers where the open-frame P1P may be adequate.

FAQ

What is the price of the P1S?

The launch MSRP was 699 USD / 699 EUR. Since 2024, Bambu Lab and authorized distributors have run frequent promotions that have brought the street price significantly lower. Check the official store or authorized retailers for current pricing.

Is it AMS compatible?

Yes. The P1S supports the Bambu Lab AMS. A single AMS unit manages up to 4 spools; up to four AMS units can be chained together for 16-color or 16-material printing.

What software does it use?

The official slicer is Bambu Studio (available for Windows and macOS). The printer is also widely used with OrcaSlicer, an open-source slicer with advanced calibration profiles supported by a large community.

Does it have an actively heated chamber?

No. The P1S has a fully enclosed frame that retains heat generated during printing, but it does not include a dedicated electric chamber heater. Users needing a thermally controlled enclosure above passive levels should look at purpose-built heated-chamber printers.

What resolution is the built-in camera?

The integrated camera captures at 1280 × 720 pixels (720p) at 0.5 fps with timelapse support. It is adequate for remote monitoring but not suited for high-quality video recording.