Bamboo Lab’s H2D vs. P1S 3D Printers: Which Enclosed Printer Is Right for You?
If you’re in the market for a high-quality enclosed 3D printer, Bamboo Lab offers two compelling options: the P1S and the H2D. While they look nearly identical at first glance, these two printers cater to very different users and needs — and the price gap between them is significant. The P1S retails for around $2,000, while the H2D costs nearly $4,500. But is the more expensive H2D worth the investment? Let’s break down the details and do the math on time, filament waste, and overall value.
Overview: P1S vs. H2D
Both printers are coreXY systems and come fully enclosed, supporting Bamboo Lab’s AMS multi-material system and Bamboo Studio software. They’re designed for quick setup — you can get started printing multi-color models in under 20 minutes. But beyond the surface, there are key differences:
- P1S: A compact, fast, and budget-friendly multi-color printer. It’s revolutionary for its price point and delivers excellent print quality.
- H2D: A premium machine with a heavier build, glass viewing windows, quieter operation, and a design that screams durability and long-term use. It’s built to run 24/7 with enhanced internals and a heated chamber.
Visually, the H2D is Bamboo Lab’s most elegant machine yet, featuring flush glass windows and a minimalist studio-friendly look.
Key Technical Differences
- Nozzle System: The biggest advantage of the H2D is its dual nozzle setup, drastically reducing filament purge waste during color changes. Because each nozzle can hold a different filament (e.g., black and white), the printer only needs to prime the nozzles rather than purge a significant amount of filament.
- Build Volume & Features: The H2D boasts a larger build volume, a heated chamber, hardened hotend assembly, and numerous sensors for improved reliability and print quality.
- Filament Waste: During testing with a complex multi-color print (a Chibi Stormtrooper model), the P1S wasted nearly 500 grams more filament per print due to frequent purges. At $20 per kilogram of filament, that’s about $9.40 wasted per print.
Print Time Comparison
- P1S: Took an incredible 41 hours to complete the model, swapping filament 799 times due to its single nozzle AMS system.
- H2D: Completed the same model in just 21 hours, with only a single filament swap and minimal purge waste.
This means the H2D is almost twice as fast for multi-color jobs — a crucial factor if you’re running a production environment or printing regularly.
Cost Analysis: When Does the H2D Pay for Itself?
At $9.40 saved per print in filament alone, and nearly halving print time, the H2D’s $1,500 premium can pay off after about 160 multi-color prints. For someone printing three to four models per week, this break-even could happen within a year.
However, if you only print occasionally (once a month or less), the more affordable P1S may be the smarter choice.
Real-World Considerations & Reliability
Neither printer is perfect — the P1S experienced a filament tangle early in testing, delaying the job by 8-10 hours, while the H2D once triggered a false spaghetti detection error during a live stream. These issues highlight that 3D printers, regardless of price, have mechanical limitations.
More important than perfection is how often and reliably they get the job done. Both machines produce stunning, nearly identical final prints, underscoring Bamboo Lab’s quality across their lineup.
Who Should Buy Which?
- Choose the P1S if:
- You want an affordable, reliable multi-color printer.
- You don’t need extremely fast print times.
- You want to build a print farm (you could buy multiple P1S units for the price of one H2D).
-
You’re okay with some filament waste due to purging.
-
Choose the H2D if:
- You print multi-color models frequently and want to save time and materials.
- You value quieter operation, larger build volume, and a premium build.
- You need a machine built for long-term, 24/7 use.
- You want the smartest nozzle system for filament efficiency.
Final Thoughts From the Studio
The H2D is one of the few printers that can actually pay for itself over time through filament savings and faster print speeds. It’s also the nicest machine the studio has ever used, delivering on quality, reliability, and user experience.
The P1S, meanwhile, punches above its weight class, offering excellent value and access to Bamboo Lab’s ecosystem without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your printing volume, budget, and priorities. Both printers are exceptional tools that serve different niches.
For Those Considering Alternatives
If Bamboo Lab isn’t your cup of tea yet, two other excellent printers to consider are:
- Elegoo Centuri Carbon
- Anycubic Cobra S1
Both offer great performance and value, and there are detailed reviews available for each.
Join the Conversation
Which printer would you choose? The value-packed P1S or the advanced, efficient H2D? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! Interested in a follow-up live stream covering long-term ownership costs, maintenance, and real-world tips? Let us know!
Thanks for reading! If you found this analysis helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and check out the links for filament and alternative printer options below. Happy printing!
Links & Resources:
- Polymaker PolyLite PLA Pro filament (15% off with code LMshowfirsttry)
- Elegoo Centuri Carbon review
- Anycubic Cobra S1 review
This post is based on an in-depth comparison and real-world testing of Bamboo Lab’s P1S and H2D 3D printers.