Late in cycle — a new model is likely coming soon
Best for: Professional makers, studios, and engineers who need large-format printing with genuine multi-material capability, open-source hardware, and Prusa's long-term support.
Full details →Overdue for a refresh — no successor announced yet. Prices should be at their lowest
Best for: Budget-conscious beginners who want Bambu's ease of use and multicolor printing in a compact footprint.
Full details →| Prusa Research XL | Bambu Lab A1 Mini | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Professional | Entry |
| Motion | CoreXY | BedSlinger |
| Build Volume | 360 × 360 × 360 mm | 180 × 180 × 180 mm |
| Max Speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Multicolor | ✅ 5 slots | ✅ 4 slots |
| Enclosure | ❌ | ❌ |
| Auto Calibration | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open Source | ✅ | ❌ |
| Upgrade Kit | — | — |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA, PA-CF, PC | PLA, PETG, TPU |
| Released | Nov 20, 2023 | Oct 19, 2023 |
| Cycle length | ~730 days | ~365 days |
| Cycle advice | Wait | Wait |
| Deals advice | Buy | Buy |
| Next model | Prusa XL 2 (Expected late 2026) | — |
Unlike filament-switching AMS/MMU systems, the XL physically swaps print heads. Each material has its own nozzle, eliminating purge towers entirely and enabling true multi-material prints.
One of the largest build volumes available in a CoreXY printer at this price point — suited for large props, architectural models, and batch production.
Every component is documented, parts are stocked for years, and the community has developed hundreds of modifications and improvements.
The A1 Mini sets up in minutes with automatic calibration and Bambu's guided first-print workflow.
Up to 4 colors with the AMS Lite accessory — Bambu's filament switching system with minimal waste purging.
Fits on a desk or shelf without taking over your workspace, while still printing at 500 mm/s.