A1 vs X-Smart 3
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
A1 and X-Smart 3 are two fused filament fabrication (fff/fdm) in a similar class. Choose A1 if work area and max colors 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 33/100 for A1.
| Parameter |
A1
Bambu Lab
F2 · Intermediate
|
X-Smart 3
Qidi Tech
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | 429 € | ~350–450 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 38.5 × 41 × 43 cm | 37 × 36.2 × 39.7 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 8.3 kg | 10.5 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 256 × 256 mm | 175 × 180 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 256 mm | 170 mm |
| Power (W) | 1300 W | 350 W |
| Voltage (V) | 220 V | — |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | — | 0.1 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) | 256 mm | 175 mm |
| Build height Z (mm) | 256 mm | 170 mm |
| Kinematics | Cartesian | CoreXY |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | 300 °C | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | 100 °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 | The A1 works natively with Bambu Studio, Bambu Lab's proprietary slicer available for Windows and macOS, which handles slicing, automatic calibrations, and remote monitoring via the Bambu Handy app. Third-party slicers — including PrusaSlicer, SuperSlicer, and Ultimaker Cura — are supported via standard G-code export, but advanced features such as vibration compensation and active flow control are only available within the Bambu ecosystem. | 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
- Work area: A1 256×256 mm vs X-Smart 3 175×180 mm — A1 wins (+108%)
- Max colors: A1 4 vs X-Smart 3 1 — A1 wins (+300%)
- Build height Z: A1 256 mm vs X-Smart 3 170 mm — A1 wins (+51%)
- Enclosed chamber: X-Smart 3 yes, A1 no
- Native Klipper: X-Smart 3 yes, A1 no
Which one to choose
Choose X-Smart 3 if…
you value enclosed chamber, native klipper and price.
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.