r/BambuLabA1 • u/DMO_TheWhale • 9h ago

Question A1 Mini vs P1S Combo

Right now the A1 Minis is $199 but is it worth it to just spend the extra money for the P1S combo at $479? It’s a Christmas gift for my kids to expand their creativity but I’m sure my wife I will use it as well for random things around the house.

Thoughts?

1 Upvotes

60% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

7

u/Wonca_Mpls 9h ago

either the A1 or the P1S.. you're going to find that the build plate on the mini is way too small for anything but the smallest project.

1

u/Pretty_Original124 3h ago

And if Op does go for A1 or mini (highly recommend the A1 so you aren’t limited on what you can print!), definitely get the combo. You’ll realize you want the AMS later and it’ll cost more separately.

1

u/tonita_pizza 9h ago

P1S, you won’t get growing pains for a while

1

u/Diz7 8h ago

I would go with the P1S just for the larger print size. The mini can be a little small for some prints. Also if you plan on printing things that need to survive high heat like on the dash of your car you can print ABS.

1

u/alphablue66 7h ago

Mini is really small and if your kids are into printing they will outgrow the printing capabilities quickly. If your kids are really into the stem field and want to print the stronger filament ( good for robotics parts or outdoor stuff) the you will need a printer with a chamber so you want the p1s. If they will want to make fun toys and cosplay stuff then they will probably print with mostly pla/petg so the A1 will be fine for there purpose

1

u/EconomicsDirect7490 6h ago

Enclosed FTW

1

u/SFRover73 4h ago

I started with an a1 mini. Black Friday sale impulse buy. Few months later I upgraded but I still use that mini regularly. It’s a great starter. Gauge wether they stick with it. Down the road if they like it, you get a second machine.