Bambu Lab X1E vs Qidi Tech X-Smart 3
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
X1E and X-Smart 3 are not direct competitors: very different prices (~6.4×). X-Smart 3 costs less (~€400) and is the entry-level choice; X1E offers more capability at a higher price (~€2550). Judge them by budget, not head-to-head.
| Parameter |
X1E
Bambu Lab
F3 · Advanced
|
X-Smart 3
Qidi Tech
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F3 — Advanced | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | ~2400–2700 € | ~350–450 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 38.9 × 38.9 × 45.7 cm | 37 × 36.2 × 39.7 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 16 kg | 10.5 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 256 × 256 mm | 175 × 180 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 256 mm | 170 mm |
| Power (W) | 1350 W | 350 W |
| Voltage (V) | 100 V | — |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | 7 μm | 0.1 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) | 256 mm | 175 mm |
| Build height Z (mm) | 256 mm | 170 mm |
| Kinematics | CoreXY | CoreXY |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | 320 °C | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | 120 °C | 120 °C |
| Max print speed (mm/s) | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Enclosed chamber | True | 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 | 16 | 1 |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | The X1E works with Bambu Studio, Bambu Lab's proprietary slicer, which handles slicing, automatic calibration, and remote monitoring via the Bambu Handy app. Orca Slicer, an open-source Bambu Studio fork with dedicated profiles, is also supported. The firmware is proprietary; Klipper is not natively supported. The printer can run in LAN-only mode, operating fully without an internet connection through the local network. | 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
- Price: X1E 2550 € vs X-Smart 3 400 € — X-Smart 3 wins (+538%)
- Work area: X1E 256×256 mm vs X-Smart 3 175×180 mm — X1E wins (+108%)
- Max colors: X1E 16 vs X-Smart 3 1 — X1E wins (+1500%)
- Build height Z: X1E 256 mm vs X-Smart 3 170 mm — X1E wins (+51%)
- Native Klipper: X-Smart 3 yes, X1E no
Which one to choose
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.