Bambu Lab P1S vs Prusa MK4S
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and Prusa MK4S are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers — $599 vs $799. We scored both 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 7.8/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Print Quality, Speed.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Prusa MK4S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $799 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 250 x 210 x 220 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 200 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 7 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 7.8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Bambu Lab P1S
+Fully enclosed for ABS/ASA
+HEPA filter for fumes
+Rock-solid reliability
+Excellent multi-material
−Pricier than open-frame alternatives
−Enclosure limits access during prints
−AMS sold separately
Prusa MK4S
+Legendary reliability
+Fully open source
+PrusaSlicer is excellent
+Best customer support in the industry
−Expensive for the speed
−Slower than CoreXY competition
−Open frame
−Showing its age vs Bambu
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 MK4S if you want:
- A great printer for reliability
- A great printer for open-source
- Open source
- PrusaSlicer
- Nextruder
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Prusa MK4S?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Prusa MK4S may be the smarter buy if you need reliability.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Prusa MK4S?
Both score 8/10 for beginners. Go with the Bambu Lab P1S to save $200.
Is the Prusa MK4S worth $200 more than the Bambu Lab P1S?
The Bambu Lab P1S actually scores higher (9/10) despite costing $200 less. The Prusa MK4S only makes sense if you specifically need reliability.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Prusa MK4S?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 250x210x220mm) and print speed (500 vs 200 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the Prusa MK4S targets reliability.