Bambu Lab introduces A1 Mini 3D color printer

With the A1 Mini, Bambu Lab has added an entry-level printer to its range. The printer has a modest construction volume of 180 by 180 by 180mm, but does have the option to print in four colors. The price of the A1 Mini with AMS lite is 489 euros.

The construction volume of the A1 Mini is equal to that of the Prusa Mini and the construction is also reminiscent of that model. However, Bambu Lab uses linear rails for all three axes and has a ‘direct drive’ print head, where the filament is pushed through the extruder by hardened metal gears in the print head. The print head can be detached with a single clip and is therefore easy to replace, so you can quickly change nozzles. The maximum temperature that the print head supports is 300°C, with the print bed at a maximum of 80°C.

The basic model can print with a single filament roll, but with AMS lite the printer can handle four rolls of filament and thus make multi-colour prints. AMS, or Automatic Material System, is Bambu Lab’s method of changing filaments during printing to enable color prints. AMS lite is a simplified version of AMS that fits Bambu Lab’s larger X1 and P1 series printers. AMS lite can read which rolls of filament are on it via RFID and report this to the slicer, Bambu Studio. AMS lite can be purchased in combination with the A1 Mini or separately: the individual retail price is $249. The separate printer costs $299 and the combination of printer and AMS lite costs $459. A euro price, including German VAT, is known for only that combination: 489 euros.

Bambu Lab A1 Mini with AMS lite

In addition to the option to print in color, the A1 Mini has a number of innovations and advanced features. In addition to automatic bed level calibration with a pressure sensor, the printer measures the resonance of the x- and y-axis motors, after which they are made quieter with resonance compensation. Prints can be sent to the printer via WiFi or a microSD card and the A1 Mini has a 2.4″ touchscreen for local control. A camera is built in for print control and timelapses and to enable print speeds of up to 500mm/s , a form of flow rate control has been implemented. The printer is delivered fully assembled and will be delivered from mid-October, although the printer can already be ordered.