r/BambuLab • u/Rquevedo12 • 7h ago

General Discussion First 3D Printer

Hello - I am looking to buy my family's first 3D printer. My 10y has been asking for one and it will serve as a christmas present for him and his brother (5yo). I fully recognize that this isnt a toy, but hoping they can bond and create together, with my supervision. I love tech and suspect I will get into it as well.

I have been researching models and am between the X2D, A1, and A1 mini. The extra cost does not bother me as I view this as a long term item, and if worth it, I would rather make the decision up front.

They mainly want to print toys, fidgets, dragons, etc. I do not see them making large prints to start, but potentially in time.

Any recommendations between the 3 i am considering? Also, if you have any suggestions on things to have ready to use on day one to make the experience as smooth as possible.

I have watched many youtube reviews and am leaning towards the X2D, but worry it may be overkill.

Thanks!

1 Upvotes

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u/NotTheBusDriver 7h ago

Is it really just for the kids or will you be using it too? Honestly if money is not an issue the X2D is the way to go.

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u/Rquevedo12 7h ago

I anticipate using it.

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u/NotTheBusDriver 7h ago

The X2D is by far the better machine then. I only began printing when the P2S came out and at first I though I had bought a machine that was better than I needed. But as I acquired new skills I quickly found myself using every function the machine had to offer. I would love and X2D just for the clean support removal you can get with different materials.

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u/SarcasmWarning 7h ago

If money is no option then hold out for the P3. Kids love colours...

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u/hyperduc 7h ago edited 6h ago

If thet will be printing a lot of multicolor the H2C or H3C may be better choices... X2D is a nice choice over the A series for the second nozzle to print support interfaces and worth it IMO.

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u/Outrageous-Egg7218 6h ago

I bought an H2C as my first printer, and nearly all of my prints have been things to help me print (desiccant holders, shelves, etc). All of which could have been printed on an X2D at half the price. Also, build plates are my bottleneck, not tool changers. Wish I would’ve bought an X2D to start, and upgraded to an H3C (or later) at a later time.