Qidi Tech X-Smart 3 vs Snapmaker U1 3D Printer
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
X-Smart 3 and U1 3D Printer are two fused filament fabrication (fff/fdm) in a similar class. Choose X-Smart 3 if price matters more; choose U1 3D Printer if work area matters more.
| Parameter |
X-Smart 3
Qidi Tech
F2 · Intermediate
|
U1 3D Printer
Snapmaker
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2023 | 2026 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | ~350–450 € | 849 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 37 × 36.2 × 39.7 cm | 58.4 × 49.9 × 73 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 10.5 kg | 18.2 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 175 × 180 mm | 270 × 270 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 170 mm | 270 mm |
| Power (W) | 350 W | 1150 W |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | 0.1 mm | 0.04 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) | 175 mm | 270 mm |
| Build height Z (mm) | 170 mm | 270 mm |
| Kinematics | CoreXY | CoreXY |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | 300 °C | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | 120 °C | 100 °C |
| Max print speed (mm/s) | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Enclosed chamber | True | False |
| Filament sensor | True | True |
| Auto bed leveling | Mesh | Mesh |
| Standard nozzle diameter (mm) | 0.4 mm | 0.4 mm |
| Multi-extruder | False | True |
| Native Klipper | True | True |
| Input shaper | True | True |
| Multicolor printing | False | True |
| Multicolor requires accessory | False | False |
| Max colors | 1 | 4 |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | 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 primary software is Snapmaker Orca, an optimized version of the popular OrcaSlicer, which provides native management of the four toolheads and factory-calibrated material profiles. The printer can also be seamlessly managed via the Snapmaker mobile app for remote monitoring, taking advantage of the built-in 1080p camera. The internal firmware is built on Klipper, Moonraker, and Fluidd, which Snapmaker has made open-source, allowing experienced users to customize the machine and integrate it into complex workflows. |
The differences that matter
- Price: X-Smart 3 400 € vs U1 3D Printer 849 € — X-Smart 3 wins (+112%)
- Work area: X-Smart 3 175×180 mm vs U1 3D Printer 270×270 mm — U1 3D Printer wins (+131%)
- Max colors: X-Smart 3 1 vs U1 3D Printer 4 — U1 3D Printer wins (+300%)
- Build height Z: X-Smart 3 170 mm vs U1 3D Printer 270 mm — U1 3D Printer wins (+59%)
- Enclosed chamber: X-Smart 3 yes, U1 3D Printer no
Which one to choose
Choose X-Smart 3 if…
you value price, enclosed chamber and max bed temperature.
Choose U1 3D Printer if…
you value work area, max colors and build height z.
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.