Bambu Labs has shaken the world with its A1 and A1 Mini models, giving other 3D printers tough competition. Their models incorporate the top-of-the-line X1E, but are popular with hobbyists and enthusiasts, as are the A1 and A1 Mini.
The best part? These prints offer a host of features like filament changes, camera views, and a lot more. However, all these features can only be leveraged if you’re using the right software or slicer for the 3D printer.
So, what slicer should you use for the Bambu Lab A1? Here’s a complete guide.
1. Bambu Studio – The Best in Class
The open-source software built on the ever-popular PuraSlicer, Bambu Studio is the official slicer built by Bambu Lab. This software has amazing compatibility with most Bambu Lab 3D printers, but the thing that made me use it is its minimal user interface.
The feature I love most about Bambu Studio is its project-based workflow. With this style of interface, you can do multiple things like building images, guides, bills of materials, notes, and a lot more.
Ultimately, Bambu Studio gives you comfort and everything is stored in one single file. This includes settings, filaments, models, plates, and a lot more. So, if you’re building something complex with your Bambu Lab A1, then using a tool like Bambu Studio will be perfect for you.
However, the grind doesn’t stop there. If you want to do multicolor printing, then the Bambu Studio will assist you especially if your printer is already equipped with Bambu Lab’s AMS. Overall, this software is the best slicer for any Bambu Lab model.
2. SuperSlicer – A Powerful Slicer
Another software built on PuraSlicer, SuperSlicer is a customizable option for anyone who’s looking to enhance their 3D prints with precision and advanced features. Using SuperSlicer, what I loved the most was all the tuning options it provides.
Just like anyone would want a Bambu Lab A1 enclosure for complete control of their prints, SuperSlicer offers that complete control digitally, where the 3D printer process starts. The best part about using SuperSlice is its options which include pressure advance, flow rate calibration, and shaping.
But with all these customizability features comes a huge learning curve. Since it is more complex than Bambu Studio and even requires manual fine-tuning, SuperSlicer is for the professionals. If you’re someone who is just starting your 3D printing journey, it might be difficult to navigate initially.
Moreover, SuperSlicer isn’t just limited to Bambu Lab A1 but it supports a wide array of 3D printer brands and filaments, making it accessible to almost anyone who is looking for a powerful slicer.
Lastly, another feature that I truly cherish with SuperSlicer is that it is perfect for experimenting with various materials because it supports a lot of them. So, aside from the difficult learning curve and the lack of direct integration with Bambu Cloud, you’re getting everything you need.
3. Orca Slicer – Amazing Support Options
This one might be unique because Orce Slicer connects to Bambu Studio just like Bambu Studio can connect with others. While Orca Slicer feels a little like Bambu Studio, for Bambu Lab A1, it still provides some of the most decent features when it comes to 3D printing.
You have Klipper support and calibration tools so you can get into your 3D printing process relatively quickly. But what I love about Orca Slicer is the fact that it supports a wide array of manufacturers. So, any Bambu Lab printer you have is most likely going to be compatible with it.
Both Orca Slicer and Bambu Studio are open source but with Orca, you have a slight edge since the community is a bit faster to adopt new features. While compatibility-wise Bambu Studio wins, when it comes to the overall feature stack for 3D printing, Orca takes the cake.
4. PrusaSlicer – A Great Bambu Studio Alternative
Developed by PrusaSlicer, this software has extensive customization options along with a similar twist that Bambu Studio offers. Since it has a larger community, you get a lot of support and updates due to PrusaSlicer’s open-source nature.
One thing where this software surpasses Bambu Studio is in terms of advanced customization features. Moreover, even if you’re not using Bambu Lab A1, PrusaSlicer will support most 3D printers all over the world.
But all that glitter is not gold since PrusaSlicer doesn’t support Bambu Cloud or AMS support, so you might be a bit more limited when it comes to actually using all the Bambu Lab products. There’s also another issue with PrusaSlicer that with Bambu Lab A1, it is not optimized for high-speed 3D printing.
On the other hand, the Bambu Studio is much more optimized to print at faster speeds.
5. UltiMaker Cura – Amazing Community Support
UltiMaker Cura incorporates many features of Bambu Studio along with some additional settings like plug-ins and other customization options. Even though things like calibration, AMS support, and networking are not available, this slicer still contains some of the most innovative features.
One specific feature that stood out to me the most is multi-material interlocking which is great for unlocking the true power of multi-material printing.
With plugin support, the community can add new features regularly, which is something that can extend the existing capabilities of the UltiMaker Cura. All in all, this is one of the best Bambu Lab A1 slicers that you can use today.
Final Verdict
Bambu Lab A1 is one of the most popular 3D printers with its mini variant. With the use of the right slicer, you can make your 3D printing easier along with leveraging the necessary features to produce new innovations.
Chitu Systems is one of the few 3D printing accessories brands that has the most diverse range of products that you can buy today. From the 3D printing enclosure for Bambu Lab A1 and A1 Mini or a host of filaments, you can check them out.
