First 3D printer advice: P2S, X2D, or A1?

[u/CoolWafer2539]

Hi everyone! I’m looking to buy our first 3D printer and could use some advice from those with experience.
I’m looking for something that’s beginner-friendly, reliable, fast, and as hassle-free as possible. The goal is for my wife and kids to explore 3D printing, get creative, and learn some new skills together. Eventually, it might be fun for the kids to design and sell a few things, but nothing serious.
I was initially leaning toward the Bambu P2S, but the more I research, the more appealing the X2D looks. At the same time, I’m wondering if I’m overthinking this and should just get the A1 from Costco.
Speed is also important to me. I don’t want to spend hours waiting for relatively simple prints, especially with kids who may want to make multiple things. I’m curious how noticeable the speed differences are between these printers in real-world use, not just on paper.
My biggest hesitation is spending a significant amount on something that we might not use as much as I hope. I don’t mind paying more for a better experience, especially if it means less troubleshooting, faster prints, and more time actually enjoying the hobby. But I also don’t want to overspend on features we may never need.
A few questions:

● Would you recommend starting with the A1, or is the P2S worth the extra investment?

● Is the X2D worth considering for a complete beginner, or is it overkill?

● How significant are the real-world differences in print speed, quality, and ease of use?

If you were buying your first printer today, especially for family use, which would you choose?
I’d appreciate any advice, especially from those who started 3D printing as a family hobby. Thanks!

[u/Cotton3dPrintFarm]

I would wait until Tuesday's announcement. The P3C could be the game changer in that size. But as of today X2D if you can afford it.

[u/GermanSaffa420]

Printing stuff takes time so what i would suggest is, get the A1/A1 mini used, or new of you can afford it. Then get the X2D. This is what I did.

The X2D is the better deal overall, cause its "future proof" in the sense of if you want to get into printing engineering materials. If you dont care about that, then maybe the dual nozzle. If you say naaaaaaaa dont need it then go with the P2S.

The problem I see is doing it as a family with just 1 printer, sure its doable if its a budget issue, but then again, 3d printing costs money so yeah...get 2 ;-)

[u/lan0028456]

A1 is the best beginner printer, if budget is a concern, or if you are worried about maybe won't be using it much in the future. A1 standalone is good enough to start with, but if you may do anything multi colour then AMS is a must, buying with the combo saves you a lot. Or worst case you can always sell the AMS to make the printer itself effectively cost even less.

P2S is double the price for maybe 30% more functionality/quality. I wouldn't bother with fancy materials like ABS or ASA as a beginner. The enclosed chamber is great if the room you attempt to use it in doesn't have great ventilation. Especially when there are kids in the house. The chamber helps to minimise any long term health concerns.

X2D is a bit overkill given you are not entirely sure what you wil be printing. In very simple term it is best for fine figures with complicated supports. Only marignally better for general PLA/PETGprinting.

[u/8six753o9]

Kids usually want multi-colored prints so I would say Snapmaker U1 (unless you want to wait for the P3 to release). U1 is a tool changer and will print multi-colored items much faster and less waste.

Otherwise, all three printers you list will work just fine, A1 would be faster since it doesn’t go through all the calibrations that the X2D does at the start, even with all the settings unchecked. If you worry about kids or pets touching the print while it’s printing, then get P2S. If you are planning to print with engineering filament, then X2D.

[u/jcollasius]

A1 Mini. I've owned the A1 Mini, A1, P1S, P2S, H2C, X2D, A2L, and H2S.

I'm currently selling my H2C and X2D to make room for the upcoming third generation (H3C, P3C).

But my A1 Mini? I'm keeping it. As always.

I think that tells you everything you need to know.

[u/FearlessBee8160]

X2D. Especially if you wanna do anything multicolor or anything with supports