If you’re new to 3D printing like I am, this machine was the latest and greatest. I bought it because at its price point, there weren’t any competitors that could execute what it does. It has four print heads that can handle four separate colors. This makes it more efficient and reduces waste, otherwise known as “poop.”
What I’ve come to learn? Although I still find it to be number one in the low-waste department, being an open unit limits what you can do with it. However, much like with cars, aftermarket support closes that gap. Even with upgrades, my total investment still only equates to a mid-tier fancy machine. The reason it lands on top? Those four print heads; it produces much less waste between color changes.
Being an open enclosure meant it lacked the thermal stability required for engineering filaments, which was my main reason for purchasing a 3D printer in the first place. It also lacked high temperature heating functions, but the community had this covered. BIQU adapted their “Panda Breath” heating unit for it, then Snapmaker finally released their ventilated top cover, and just like that, it sprinted to the top of the list once more—making it the best budget platform for 2026.
More better is more badder! To make quality parts, these upgrades are a must. To invent and improve part quality, you must be open to learning its many functions and settings. It’s a huge learning curve, but it’s so fun, exciting, and challenging.
Leave a Reply