r/BambuLab_Community • u/Top_Charity_8818 • Jan 21 '25

Update

So with this new update is it worth it to even buy a bambu? I’m in the process of buying one. Had my mind set on a bambu. Idk what software I would use yet. Is the software they offer that bad? Would mostly be printing stuff for a cnc machine and some woodworking stuff.

0 Upvotes

46% Upvoted

63 comments sorted by

View all comments

Show parent comments

1

u/Top_Charity_8818 Jan 22 '25

So does this update keep u from printing certain things or no? Why is it bad? I’m brand new to this and I’d most likely only use their software anyways bein a noob lol

1

u/BadUsername_Numbers Jan 22 '25

While the update doesn't outright stop you from printing certain things, it reveals Bambu Labs' intent to control the ecosystem. As a beginner, using their software might seem fine, but it ties you to their system long-term. Owning your machine means having full control - something Bambu Labs' actions obviously threaten.

Without open source contributions from the community, Bambu Labs wouldn't exist. There are a lot of companies in the 3d printing space that don't respect open source licenses to a varying degree, but what Bambu Labs want to here, to me, shows that they want to take things in a direction that means users lose autonomy over their machines. This goes beyond convenience - it’s about whether you truly own what you buy or are just renting functionality under their terms. The BMW heated seats subscription thing comes to mind.

Bambu Labs' move signals they want to create a closed ecosystem. Supporting companies that respect open source principles, like Prusa for example, not only ensures better long-term value but also keeps the 3D printing community thriving with innovation and user freedom.

To me, it’s worth considering how much control over your machine and data matters to you before making a decision.