Bambu Lab P1S vs Prusa Mini+
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and Prusa Mini+ are both FDM 3D printers competing in the same price bracket, $449 vs $459. 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 8.2/10. It pulls ahead in Print Quality, Speed. The Prusa Mini+ still puts up a fight in Beginner Friendliness.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Prusa Mini+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $459 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 180 x 180 x 180 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 180 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 4 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 8.2/10 |
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
Prusa Mini+
+Prusa's reputation for reliability is earned — this is their most-owned printer globally
+PrusaSlicer profiles are the gold standard; third-party slicers treat Prusa as the reference
+Open-source means every component is documented, replaceable, and community-supported
+SuperPINDA gives consistently excellent first layers without manual tramming
+4kg makes it genuinely portable — fits in a carry-on with room
−180×180×180mm is small — limits to desk accessories, figurines, and small functional parts
−180mm/s is slow compared to Bambu or Creality CoreXY machines
−Semi-enclosed means ABS warping is still a risk without an aftermarket enclosure
−Prusa charges a premium; the hardware isn't exceptional by 2025 standards
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 Prusa Mini+ if you want:
- A great printer for reliability
- A great printer for beginner
- A great printer for value
- A great printer for desktop
- MINI/E input shaper toolhead (NextruderMINI compatible)
- SuperPINDA probe for first-layer precision
- Prusa Connect remote monitoring
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Prusa Mini+?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Prusa Mini+ may be the smarter buy if you need reliability.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Prusa Mini+?
The Prusa Mini+ is more beginner-friendly (9/10 vs 8/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Prusa Mini+ worth $10 more than the Bambu Lab P1S?
The Bambu Lab P1S actually scores higher (9/10) despite costing $10 less. The Prusa Mini+ only makes sense if you specifically need reliability.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Prusa Mini+?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 180x180x180mm) and print speed (500 vs 180 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the Prusa Mini+ targets reliability.