Following the first part's overview and evaluation of the Bambu Lab X1E's appearance and functions (see here: [3D Printing] Is the Bambu Lab X1E really worth the price? ) , this article will introduce the second part: product testing. Let's see if the X1E's performance is worth the price!
Bambu Lab X1E Performance Test Report
To test the repeatability of the Bambu Lab X1E , the 3D Printing Industry team 3D printed square, hexagonal, and tubular models 12 times each and compared their dimensions with the original design. Parts with an average deviation of less than 0.1 mm and a standard deviation of less than 0.05 mm were considered successful.
Repeatability test geometry of 3D printed image, photo provided by 3D Printing Industry.
The X1E performed exceptionally well in repeatability tests, with an average deviation of only 0.0573 mm and a standard deviation of 0.021 mm for tubular, square, and hexagonal models. These results demonstrate the X1E's remarkable consistency in precision and accuracy . Therefore, the X1E is ideal for specialized users who require the production of high-quality, repeatable parts, such as jigs and assembly components.
Next, an internal 3DPI test was conducted, in which the X1E achieved an excellent score of 95.85/100, the highest score they had ever tested for any FDM 3D printer.
This result was achieved using the optimal mode with a 0.16 mm floor height. While some issues arose above 70° in the sag test, most FDM systems exhibit floor line sagging at 50°. Therefore, the X1E's performance is significantly above average .
The capability test in the 3D Printing Industry involves printing 150 tubular models and randomly selecting 16 for measurement. Capability testing is crucial for users who want to print large quantities of similar geometries, as it helps to statistically control process variation and determine whether the machine can consistently meet the required tolerances.
The X1E exhibits an excellent Cp (process capability index) of 7.99, indicating that its process output is highly stable and maintains consistent values within specification limits. Its Cpk (minimum process capability index) reaches 3.887, meaning it accurately achieves results within specifications with a very low probability of defects. Overall, the X1E is well-suited for large-scale production operations, providing high quality and consistency .
The 3D Printing Industry team also evaluated the X1E's ability to print small, precision parts. The test piece was a nut and bolt, 28 mm in length, with tight tolerances. This part was successfully printed with clear details and defect-free threads, making it functional. Therefore, the X1E is suitable for producing fixtures in the automotive and aerospace industries .
3D printed nut and bolt test, image courtesy of 3D Printing Industry.
Testing the application of Bambu Lab X1E
3D Printing Industry used PA6-CF material to print a grid pulley on an RC skateboard. It was a high-quality print with no visible defects and no post-processing required!
3D printed grid pulley gears, image courtesy of 3D Printing Industry.
Using ASA material with a glass transition temperature of 110°C, they successfully printed an air intake pipe for a rally car. This intake pipe exhibited no deformation or external defects, making it ideal for automotive applications .
They also 3D printed a functional prototype of the taillight assembly. The lens is made of transparent polycarbonate, allowing light to pass through while also acting as a diffuser. The housing is made of ABS material to prevent wear and tear from environmental factors. The bracket is printed with PLA to simulate a metal plate.
Next, a drone frame was 3D printed using PAHT-CF material. This required the use of support material from Bambu Lab . Although removing the support material was not easy, with the right tools and patience, we eventually succeeded.
For FDM enthusiasts, one of the most appealing features is the multi-color 3D printing tool in Bambu Studio . The Automated Feed System (AMS) allows users to store four spools in its compartment. This system reads RFID chips and automatically loads the consumables into the tool head.
The 3D Printing Industry's company logo and Hue Forge artwork demonstrate the applicability of this tool in the arts and crafts market, enabling the production of multi-color parts in a single 3D printing job.
They also created a high-quality cardiac anatomical model suitable for educational and demonstration purposes. The biomedical industry can utilize the X1E to evaluate life-size 3D printed anatomical models in CT or MRI imaging, allowing medical practitioners to study optimal surgical procedures .
Bambu Lab faces data security allegations
According to some sources, Bambu Labs ' log files contained intellectual property such as 3mf files and g-code when transmitted to the cloud. This appears to be a problem stemming from the lack of security protocols in previous firmware, making it vulnerable to external interception and decryption.
Because Bambu Studio and Bambu devices heavily rely on their cloud services, data breaches or unauthorized access could lead to significant disruptions or the leakage of proprietary designs. The data collected by Bambu Lab devices includes video streams and detailed print information, recorded by onboard cameras and miniature LiDAR. If the system is compromised, this data could be accessed, posing a significant problem for defense sectors that handle extremely sensitive data.
Worse still, in 2023, all Bambu Lab 3D printers connected to the cloud automatically began printing , damaging many devices. This was reportedly due to a cloud service failure after a system reset, causing the 3D printers to reprint their last print job. In response to reports that decrypted log files contained intellectual property collected by Bambu Cloud, Bambu specifically launched X1E to ensure network and user security .
The new Ethernet port on this 3D printer allows the X1E to operate without a connection to the cloud. The X1E also offers WPA2 Enterprise certified connectivity to ensure secure network use and offline printing capabilities, making it ideal for users who want to perform 3D printing under confidentiality agreements .
Bambu Lab X1E: A Desktop 3D Printer That Offers Excellent Value
The X1E is sold exclusively by dealers, and its price includes the Automated Feed System (AMS). The X1E costs almost twice as much as its predecessor, the X1C. The Creality K2 is a direct competitor to the X1E, priced lower and offering similar features, except for enhanced connectivity and the lack of a heavy-duty air filter. The Ultimaker S5 is also a hardware contender, but its price is significantly higher.
Overall, we believe the X1E is an excellent value 3D printer. It offers attractive features, enables high-quality 3D printing , and is compatible with a wide range of materials, making it suitable for various applications.
Bambu Lab X1E: The New Standard in the Desktop 3D Printer Market
The X1E performed exceptionally well in all size tests conducted by the 3D Printing Industry. Designed for the professional market, this 3D printer represents a significant advancement in desktop 3D printing technology, combining high-speed printing capabilities with impressive build quality. The improved hot end and actively heated print chamber greatly increase material versatility, making the X1E ideal for professional applications across various industries .
While Bambu Labs has strengthened the security of its cloud services by introducing additional security protocols, potential customers should still consider data security issues. Users should also perform monthly maintenance checks on the X1E to avoid downtime and inconvenience. This can be done by lubricating the lead screws, removing dirt, and handling the nozzles carefully to avoid damaging the wiring.
Despite its many advantages, the X1E is not without its drawbacks.
Nozzle clogging can occur occasionally, but these issues are easily resolved thanks to the magnetic tool head cap and the two screws securing the nozzle. Disassembling parts is also very simple and requires almost no effort. Bed adhesion issues have also arisen, but these can be easily resolved using the glue sticks included in the accessory box. These minor problems are completely overshadowed by the numerous advantages of the 3D printer , including excellent print quality, speed, and a comprehensive support ecosystem. The Bambu Wiki provides extensive support in a forum format where community members and experts can comment and reply to posted questions. All supplies and spare parts can be found at the Bambu Lab store or on our SanDiMa website!
In summary, the Bambu Lab X1E is a powerful and reliable 3D printer that delivers exceptional performance and user experience, making it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts and professionals who require accurate and stable 3D printing .
Bambu Lab X1E Technical Specifications
| 3D printing technology | FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) |
| Construction volume | 256×256×256 mm |
| 3D printer size | 389 x 389 x 457 mm cubic |
| user interface | 5-inch touchscreen |
| Maximum 3D printing speed | 500 mm/s |
| 3D printing acceleration | 20 m/s² |
| Maximum flow | 32 mm³/s |
| Maximum nozzle temperature | 320℃ |
| Heating construction board temperature | 110℃@220V, 120℃@110V |
| Heating molding chamber | Maximum 60℃ |
| Pre-filtration stage | G3 |
| HEPA filtration level | H12 |
| Activated carbon filter type | Coconut shell pellets |
| Wire compatibility |
PLA, PETG, TPU, PVA, BVOH: Best ABS, ASA, PC, PA, PET: High-quality Carbon/glass fiber reinforced PLA, PETG, PA, PET, PC, ABS, ASA: High-quality PPA-CF/GF, PPS, polyphenylene sulfide CF/GF |
| Nozzle and extruder gear materials | Hardened steel |
| Nozzle diameter | 0.4 mm (with) 0.2 mm, 0.6 mm, 0.8 mm |
| wire diameter | 1.75 mm |
| Number of extruders | 1 |
| Wire cutting machine | Yes |
| hot end | All-metal hot end |
| net weight | 16 kg |
| Slicer compatibility | Bambu Studio |
| Connectivity | WiFi, Ethernet RJ45, WPA2 |
| File output | .g code |
👉Related Product: Bambu Lab X1E 3D Printer
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