Bambu Lab P1S vs QIDI X-Max 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and QIDI X-Max 3 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $449 vs $799. 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 8/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Reliability.
Direct answer
Bambu Lab P1S is the better pick for most buyers.
Choose Bambu Lab P1S if you want the stronger overall score, better fit for engineering and abs, and the safer recommendation. Choose QIDI X-Max 3 only if its specific strengths matter more to you than the overall result.
Winner by buyer type
Best overall
Bambu Lab P1S
Best value
Bambu Lab P1S
Best build volume
QIDI X-Max 3
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | QIDI X-Max 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $799 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 325 x 325 x 315 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 25 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 8/10 |
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
QIDI X-Max 3
+325mm enclosed with 60C active heating is a combination you almost can't find under $1,500
+Independent Z motors keep the bed trammed even on 24-hour prints
+Handles PA-CF and PC natively without a fight
+600mm/s in a large-format heated chamber is rare at any price
−25kg: set it up once and it lives there
−$799 with a smaller community than Bambu means you're mostly on your own troubleshooting
−QIDI's slicer profiles are thin for specialty materials
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 QIDI X-Max 3 if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for professional
- Enclosed
- Large CoreXY
- Chamber heating (60C)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the QIDI X-Max 3?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the QIDI X-Max 3 may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or QIDI X-Max 3?
The Bambu Lab P1S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the QIDI X-Max 3 worth $350 more than the Bambu Lab P1S?
The Bambu Lab P1S actually scores higher (9/10) despite costing $350 less. The QIDI X-Max 3 only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and QIDI X-Max 3?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 325x325x315mm) and print speed (500 vs 600 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the QIDI X-Max 3 targets large-prints.