Bambu Lab P1S vs Creality CR-M4
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and Creality CR-M4 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $449 vs $599. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Bambu Lab P1S takes the crown with 9/10 vs 6/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Creality CR-M4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $599 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 450 x 450 x 470 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 200 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 38 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 6/10 |
Pros & Cons
Bambu Lab P1S
+HEPA filter actually handles ABS fumes, not just PLA smell
+CoreXY at 500mm/s inside an enclosed chamber
+Reliability track record is as good as anything at this price
+AMS multi-material works without the constant jams you get on cheaper systems
−$449 without AMS, which adds another $100-150 on top
−Enclosure lid has to come off to reach prints mid-job
−P1P owners considering an upgrade: this is it, but it stings
Creality CR-M4
+450mm build volume: print a torso, a chest plate, a full helmet in one run
+Dual Z axis keeps a bed this large from sagging mid-print
+Relatively affordable for the volume: comparable machines cost $1,500+
+Direct drive handles flexible and abrasive materials on a large scale
−200mm/s is the slowest print speed on the list by a wide margin: large prints take days
−38kg: this printer lives where you put it, forever
−Open frame on a 450mm machine means ABS warping is brutal without a DIY enclosure
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Bambu Lab P1S if you want:
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for abs
- A great printer for enclosed
- Enclosed
- Multi-material (AMS)
- WiFi
Choose the Creality CR-M4 if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for cosplay
- A great printer for professional
- 450x450x470mm build volume
- Auto bed leveling
- Dual Z motors
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Creality CR-M4?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Creality CR-M4 may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Creality CR-M4?
The Bambu Lab P1S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 4/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Creality CR-M4 worth $150 more than the Bambu Lab P1S?
The Bambu Lab P1S actually scores higher (9/10) despite costing $150 less. The Creality CR-M4 only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Creality CR-M4?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 450x450x470mm) and print speed (500 vs 200 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the Creality CR-M4 targets large-prints.