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3D Printing, Anycubic, Kobra S1 Combo

Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo – CoreXY 3D Printer – An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests

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If you’ve been following my reviews on The Gadget Man, you’ll know I have a deep appreciation for innovation and practicality, particularly when it comes to tech that enables creativity. Enter the Anycubic Kobra S1 – a device that has transformed my 3D printing experience and firmly established itself as an indispensable tool in my workshop. After clocking over 100 hours of printing with this machine, I can confidently say it’s a game-changer in the world of consumer-grade 3D printers.

Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo
Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo

Dimensions and Specifications

The Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo boasts a compact yet highly functional design. It operates at 46dB in standard mode and an impressively quiet 44dB in quiet mode, making it suitable for home and office environments. The maximum nozzle temperature of this printer reaches an impressive 320°C, allowing for compatibility with a variety of filament types. Additionally, the print head features a quick-release mechanism, simplifying maintenance and filament swaps. With a build volume of 250 x 250 x 250 mm, it offers ample space for a wide variety of projects while maintaining a manageable footprint. The printer’s enclosed design ensures consistent environmental conditions, and the carbon filter reduces fumes, particularly useful when printing with materials like ABS. The sturdy frame and high-quality components reflect Anycubic’s commitment to durability and reliability. The machine’s heated bed, capable of reaching temperatures up to 120°C quickly, is paired with a magnetic PEI print bed, ensuring excellent adhesion during printing and easy removal of finished models. and its precision extruder provide a professional-grade 3D printing experience.

Anycubic S1 Combo - CoreXY 3D Printer - An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests
Anycubic S1 Combo – CoreXY 3D Printer – An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests

Unboxing and Package Contents

The Anycubic Kobra S1 arrives neatly packaged with everything you need to get started. The box includes the main printer components, a toolkit, a sample filament, the 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit, and a detailed user manual. The inclusion of these extras reflects Anycubic’s commitment to delivering value and convenience to users. The unboxing experience is satisfying, and the care in packaging ensures everything arrives in pristine condition.

Assembly and Initial Setup

Straight out of the box, the setup process is impressively straightforward. The clear and concise user manual walks you through installing the print head, screen, and filament holder. Even for those new to 3D printing, the step-by-step instructions make assembly approachable and stress-free. Connecting the multi-colour ACE unit is a simple task, and the machine is designed for intuitive use. Within an hour, I had the printer fully assembled and ready to begin its first calibration.

One standout aspect of the setup process is the printer’s resonance compensation system. During initial configuration, the Kobra S1 moves the print head rapidly in a controlled pattern to measure vibrations. This data allows the printer to adjust and compensate for resonance during printing, resulting in smoother, more accurate outputs. This feature is particularly impressive as it demonstrates Anycubic’s dedication to precision and innovation.

Anycubic S1 Combo - CoreXY 3D Printer - An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests
Anycubic S1 Combo – CoreXY 3D Printer – An indispensable tool for professionals and hobbiests

Software and User Interface

The Anycubic Kobra S1 supports widely-used slicing software like Cura and Anycubic’s own Photon Workshop. It is compatible with a range of nozzle diameters, including the standard 0.4mm as well as 0.2mm, 0.6mm, and 0.8mm options for expanded versatility in project designs. These platforms offer intuitive interfaces and extensive options for fine-tuning your prints. Once the software is installed, connecting the printer is a breeze, and the user-friendly touchscreen interface on the printer itself makes controlling print jobs straightforward. It’s a well-thought-out ecosystem that bridges functionality and ease of use.

Performance and Material Versatility

In terms of performance, the Kobra S1 punches well above its weight. I began with PLA and PLA+, and the results were remarkable. Prints exhibited exceptional precision, fine details, and consistent layer adhesion. The enclosed design minimizes environmental factors, ensuring stable and reliable results.

Venturing into ABS printing was where the Kobra S1 truly shined. The enclosed chamber with a carbon filter ensured stable temperatures, reducing warping and odours. The heated bed and high-performance extruder proved their worth, handling ABS effortlessly and delivering smooth, robust prints. The addition of the multi-colour ACE unit enabled stunning multi-material prints, allowing for creative designs that were previously out of reach with single-extruder systems.

Before using the Kobra S1, I was limited to manual filament changes when attempting multi-colour prints. The Kobra S1’s full support for multi-colour printing has been a revelation, saving time and reducing errors. However, it’s worth noting that the use of prime towers for filament flushing can lead to some filament waste, a consideration for those conscious of material efficiency.

Standout Features

The heating 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the Kobra S1. This innovative unit is also heated, allowing for in-print filament pre-heating, which ensures consistent material flow and print quality. The quick-release print head further enhances convenience, making it easy to swap or maintain the unit. The Kobra S1 also supports advanced features like Pressure Advance and Flow Calibration, ensuring optimal performance and precision across a range of printing scenarios. This innovative unit is also heated, allowing for in-print filament pre-heating, which ensures consistent material flow and print quality. This advanced feature facilitates seamless multi-material and multi-colour printing, unlocking unparalleled creative potential. Whether it’s intricate models, functional prototypes, or artistic creations, the ACE unit’s reliability and precision make it a joy to use.

Another highlight is the auto-levelling system. This feature eliminates one of the most common frustrations in 3D printing—manual bed levelling. With the Kobra S1, you can count on a perfectly levelled print bed every time, ensuring optimal print quality from the very first layer.

Safety and Maintenance

Anycubic has also prioritised user safety and maintenance ease. The enclosed design minimizes exposure to fumes, especially when working with ABS. Routine maintenance is simplified with easy access to key components and a helpful guide in the user manual. The sturdy build ensures durability, making this printer a long-term investment.

Value for Money

The Anycubic Kobra S1 stands out as an affordable yet feature-rich 3D printer. Priced competitively, it delivers professional-grade results that rival much more expensive models. With its ability to handle a wide range of materials, including PLA, PLA+, and ABS, and its advanced multi-material capabilities, the Kobra S1 offers exceptional value for hobbyists, tinkerers, and small businesses alike.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Anycubic Kobra S1 sets a new standard for consumer-grade 3D printers. Its versatility, reliability, and professional-grade performance make it a standout choice for both beginners and experienced makers. From the heating 4-reel multi-colour ACE unit to its intuitive design, exceptional print quality, and advanced resonance compensation system, this printer offers an unparalleled user experience. If you’re in the market for a feature-packed 3D printer that doesn’t break the bank, the Anycubic Kobra S1 is a top contender. Highly recommended!

Don’t forget to enter the special offer code GADGETMAN to get a further £20 discount on your order!

 

3D Printing, Gadget Man, Matt Porter, Review, Technology, The Gadget Man

From Manual Filament Swapping to Automatic Colour Changes: Ender 3 vs Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo

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From Manual Filament Swapping to Automatic Colour Changes: Ender 3 vs Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo

As someone who’s had the opportunity to tinker with various 3D printers over the years, I’ve experienced both the joys and frustrations of colour swapping during prints. My journey started with manual filament swaps on the Ender 3, and now I’ve moved on to the seamless (albeit not waste-free) world of automatic colour swapping on the Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo. Let’s dive into the key differences between these two approaches and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Manual Filament Swapping on the Ender 3

The Ender 3 is a fantastic workhorse for beginners and enthusiasts alike. However, when it comes to multi-colour printing, you’re limited to manual filament swaps, which can only be done at specific layer heights. While this technique is simple in concept, it comes with its own set of challenges:

How It Works

  1. Design the model with clear layer divisions for each colour.
  2. Use your slicer software (e.g., Cura) to insert filament change commands (commonly M600 G-code) at the desired layer height.
  3. Monitor the printer closely and manually swap the filament when prompted.
  4. Restart the print after the filament is loaded.

Advantages

  • Cost-Effective: No need for additional hardware or upgrades.
  • Straightforward: Simple to set up with basic slicer adjustments.
  • Customisation: Allows for precise colour placement, as long as changes align with flat layers.

Challenges

  • Time-Consuming: You must stay near the printer to swap filament, especially for prints with multiple transitions.
  • Limited to Layers: Colour changes are restricted to flat transitions between layers, making it unsuitable for gradient or complex designs.
  • Risk of Errors: Improper filament loading or extrusion can result in print failures or layer inconsistencies.

The Ender 3 is a simple “bed slinger” design, where the print bed moves along the Y-axis during printing. This makes it easy to understand and maintain but limits its speed and precision compared to more advanced designs. Manual filament swaps on the Ender 3 are a rewarding challenge, but they’re not ideal for prints requiring frequent or intricate colour changes.

Automatic Colour Swapping on the Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo

Enter the Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo, a machine that takes the hassle out of colour transitions with its automatic colour swapping capabilities. This feature is a game-changer for multi-colour printing, but it’s not without its quirks.

How It Works

  1. Load multiple filaments into the system’s multi-material module.
  2. Use your slicer software to assign colours or materials to specific parts of the model.
  3. The printer automatically purges and swaps filaments as required during the print.

Advantages

  • Full Automation: No need to monitor the printer for manual swaps.
  • Flexible Design: Supports intricate, multi-colour models and even gradient effects.
  • Time-Saving: Once the print starts, you can walk away and let the machine handle transitions.
  • Advanced Features: Comes with a four-reel filament holder, filament drying capabilities (ACE Pro), and a completely enclosed design with a self-levelling bed for precision and consistency.
  • Core-X-Y Design: The Kobra S1 uses a core-X-Y motion system, where the print head moves along the X and Y axes, while the bed remains stationary in those directions and only moves along the Z-axis. This design allows for faster and more precise printing.
  • Speed: Prints significantly quicker than the Ender 3, reducing overall production time.

Challenges

  • Purge Waste: Automatic colour swaps generate significant purge waste, especially for frequent transitions. This waste can be a mix of materials and colours, making it harder to recycle.
  • Material Costs: Increased waste also means higher filament consumption, which can add up over time.
  • Complexity: The Kobra S1 Combo’s advanced features and capabilities make it a more complex machine to operate and maintain, compared to the hands-on simplicity of the Ender 3.
  • Calibration Required: Achieving perfect transitions may require fine-tuning slicer settings and calibration.

Despite these challenges, the Kobra S1 Combo excels at delivering high-quality multi-colour prints with minimal effort compared to manual methods.

Key Comparisons

Feature Ender 3 (Manual Swaps) Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo (Automatic)
Ease of Use Labour-intensive Fully automated
Print Complexity Limited to layer changes Supports gradients and intricate designs
Material Waste Minimal Significant purge waste
Time Investment High (requires supervision) Low (set and forget)
Cost Efficiency More cost-effective Higher filament consumption
Learning Curve Simple to learn Requires slicer and printer calibration
Features Basic setup Four-reel holder, filament dryer, enclosed design, self-levelling bed, Core-X-Y system
Speed Slower print times Significantly faster

Which System Is Right for You?

The choice between manual and automatic filament swapping depends largely on your needs:

Creality Ender 3
Creality Ender 3

Ender 3: Ideal for budget-conscious users who don’t mind putting in extra effort to achieve basic multi-colour prints. It’s a hands-on machine that’s perfect for learning and tinkering.

Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo
Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo

Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo: Perfect for users looking for convenience and the ability to create complex, high-quality multi-colour designs with minimal manual intervention. Its advanced features make it a powerful tool but with added complexity.

For me, moving to the Kobra S1 Combo has been a revelation. The convenience of automatic colour swapping far outweighs the challenges of purge waste and calibration. That said, the Ender 3 taught me valuable skills and patience, which I still draw upon when troubleshooting more advanced systems.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from manual to automatic colour swapping is like moving from a bicycle to a car—both get you to your destination, but the experience is vastly different. The Ender 3 is a great starting point for learning the fundamentals of 3D printing, while the Anycubic Kobra S1 Combo opens up a world of possibilities for complex, multi-colour creations.

If you’ve been hesitant to make the leap to automatic systems, consider this: while there’s no substitute for learning the basics, automation can free up your time to focus on what really matters—creating amazing prints.

What’s your experience with colour swapping in 3D printing? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

If you are thinking of buying a Anycubic printer, use the discount code MATTPORTER when you check out to receive a £20 discount.