Bambu Lab A1 mini vs Qidi Tech X-Smart 3
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
A1 mini and X-Smart 3 are two fused filament fabrication (fff/fdm) in a similar class. Choose A1 mini if max colors and price matters more; choose X-Smart 3 if enclosed chamber matters more. On the category's overall technical index, X-Smart 3 scores 48/100 against 28/100 for A1 mini.
| Parameter |
A1 mini
Bambu Lab
F2 · Intermediate
|
X-Smart 3
Qidi Tech
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | 299 € | ~350–450 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 34.7 × 31.5 × 36.5 cm | 37 × 36.2 × 39.7 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 5.7 kg | 10.5 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 180 × 180 mm | 175 × 180 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 180 mm | 170 mm |
| Power (W) | 150 W | 350 W |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | 50 μm | 0.1 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) | 180 mm | 175 mm |
| Build height Z (mm) | 180 mm | 170 mm |
| Kinematics | Cartesian | CoreXY |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | 300 °C | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | 80 °C | 120 °C |
| Max print speed (mm/s) | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Enclosed chamber | false | True |
| Filament sensor | true | True |
| Auto bed leveling | Mesh | Mesh |
| Standard nozzle diameter (mm) | 0.4 mm | 0.4 mm |
| Multi-extruder | false | False |
| Native Klipper | false | True |
| Input shaper | true | True |
| Multicolor printing | true | False |
| Multicolor requires accessory | true | False |
| Max colors | 4 | 1 |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | Compatible with Bambu Studio (OrcaSlicer-derived) and OrcaSlicer. Supports LAN mode for cloud-free printing. Does not run native Klipper. | The QIDI X-Smart 3 is primarily managed via QIDI Slicer, a proprietary software based on the latest versions of PrusaSlicer, optimized to fully leverage the machine's high speeds and CoreXY structure. The interface offers both a beginner mode and an advanced mode for granular control of parameters. The printer comes with pre-installed Klipper firmware, allowing advanced users direct access to the Fluidd web interface for real-time monitoring, calibration, and macro customization. Nevertheless, compatibility is guaranteed with the most popular third-party slicing software, including Ultimaker Cura, Simplify3D, and standard PrusaSlicer, ensuring a flexible and adaptable workflow. |
The differences that matter
- Max colors: A1 mini 4 vs X-Smart 3 1 — A1 mini wins (+300%)
- Price: A1 mini 299 € vs X-Smart 3 400 € — A1 mini wins (+34%)
- Enclosed chamber: X-Smart 3 yes, A1 mini no
- Max bed temperature: A1 mini 80 °C vs X-Smart 3 120 °C — X-Smart 3 wins (+50%)
- Native Klipper: X-Smart 3 yes, A1 mini no
Which one to choose
Choose X-Smart 3 if…
you value enclosed chamber, max bed temperature and native klipper.
MakerSpecs is an independent atlas. We don't sell products: this comparison links to both sheets, where you'll find complete data and official links.