Bambu Lab P1S vs Voxelab Aquila X2
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and Voxelab Aquila X2 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $449 vs $179. 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 6.6/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Voxelab Aquila X2 saves you $270 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Voxelab Aquila X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $179 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 180 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 7.8 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 6.6/10 |
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
Voxelab Aquila X2
+Silent stepper drivers mean it runs without disturbing the room
+Manual leveling teaches you what auto-leveling actually does
+Ender 3-compatible mods are everywhere and cheap
−Manual bed leveling is a chore you'll do every few prints until you upgrade it
−Bowden extruder makes TPU printing a frustrating exercise
−180mm/s is slow in a world where budget printers hit 500mm/s
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 Voxelab Aquila X2 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for beginners
- Resume printing
- Filament runout sensor
- Glass build plate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Voxelab Aquila X2?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Voxelab Aquila X2 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Voxelab Aquila X2?
The Bambu Lab P1S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Bambu Lab P1S worth $270 more than the Voxelab Aquila X2?
The Bambu Lab P1S scores higher overall (9/10 vs 6.6/10). The extra $270 gets you hepa filter actually handles abs fumes, not just pla smell.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Voxelab Aquila X2?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 220x220x250mm) and print speed (500 vs 180 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the Voxelab Aquila X2 targets budget.