Creality K1 3D Printer Review -Worth It or Not?
Creality K1 3D Printer Review Summary
This K1 printer, which claims to have 12 times the printing speed, has greatly improved overall printing speed and smoothness. However, to use a speed of 600mm/s, there are certain requirements for the model and slicing, and it is recommended to slightly lower the speed to 400mm/s for better printing quality.
As a beginner, there are practically no complicated operations and basic tasks such as loading and leveling are all automated, making it quite user-friendly. Additionally, the printing noise is within acceptable levels which is a maximum of around 80 decibels which is a little higher than the Bambu lab p1p 3d printer which is around 75 decibels.
Pros
- Speed&quality improved a lot
- Quick and easy installation for beginners
- Automatic leveling and filament detection
- Prints with various consumables and high-temperature bed
- Built-in fan for excellent printing results
- Real-time monitoring via WiFi
- Automatic detection
- Flexible steel plate for easy removal
Cons
- Many operations cannot be interrupted midway and must be completed before taking any other action.
- Printing at speeds of 600mm/s can be tricky for good quality but lowering the speed can improve results.
- Speed control is unavailable during printing.
- Lightning-Fast Speed: With an upgraded 600 mm/s…
- Hands-free Auto Leveling: An array of strain…
- Sturdy Frame: Featuring a CoreXY structure, the…
- 32mm³/s Max Flow Hotend: Built-in new ceramic…
- Solve Ringing with G-sensor: Eliminate ringing…
Notice: Most of this review has been written based on our testing of the first generation of the K1.
I’m not exactly sure when it started, but there’s been competition between different brands of 3D printers to see who can produce the fastest model. Brands like Bambu Lab, Creality, and Pursa have been promoting their high-speed printers as a result.
Prusa recently unveiled its latest printer, the MK4, which is being sold at $799. With the ability to print a “draft mode” 3DBenchy boat in less than 20 minutes, it is way faster than its predecessors. Following this achievement, Anker released a software update that doubled the speed of its printer to 500mm/s. The $799 AnkerMake M5 can now print a Benchy in just 17 minutes, and even the Creality K1 and K1 Max printers boast 600mm/s default speeds, allowing them to print a Benchy in just 13 minutes.
However, it’s important to note that speed isn’t everything when it comes to your 3D printing needs. So, one must remember to consider all aspects when selecting the right printer. So let’s get started and see this Creality K1 3D printer goes!
Unboxing the Creality K1 3D Printer
The package is very sturdy and upon opening the box, there is foam cushioning surrounding the contents. The top of the box contains a transparent lid, an instruction manual, and a sticker. Removing the lid reveals the machine. In summary, you will receive the following items:
- Transparent machine lid
- Printer
- Charger
- Toolkit bag
- Instruction manual and warranty card
- Random 200g high-speed white filament
- Four machine footpads
There is very little that needs to be installed, saving you a lot of time compared to DIY machines. However, before starting the printing process, there are a few small details to keep in mind. If you’re interested in purchasing a K1 printer, continue reading below for more details.
Getting Started
As shown in the image above, it is crucial to remove all foam pads before turning on the machine. Not only around the machine but also inside the casing, you may find them. Additionally, you need to use the supplied tool to remove three yellow-marked screws inside the machine, located on both sides and close to the back inside.
Taking out the screws may be a bit tricky because they are small and hard to reach due to the angle. However, with a bit of patience, you can easily overcome this challenge.
K1 Set Up
Firstly, you need to install the included display screen onto the machine. The screen size is not very large, smaller than my iPhone 14 and you can easily connect it to the machine’s bottom by snapping it into place. You will hear a clear click sound once it is properly attached.
After turning on the power, you need to select the language on the display screen. Then the machine will prompt you to remove the three screws in the positions previously highlighted by the yellow arrows. The manufacturer has kindly put a noticeable yellow warning arrow behind each screw to prevent users from accidentally damaging the platform board.
Follow the on-screen instructions to enter the machine’s self-check state, which includes 6 processes:
- nozzle heating
- hotbed heating
- heat break cooling fan
- mainboard cooling fan
- vibration optimization
The final step is automatic leveling, which takes about 17 minutes for the first time. Be patient and wait for it to finish, and then you can start loading the material.
Click on the screen to select the feed option and follow the instructions that appear. The machine will show you three steps:
- nozzle heating
- feeding in progress
- feeding completed
The heating speed is very fast, and once the loading process is complete, you can start printing.
Creality K1 3D Printer Features
At 600 mm/s, there’s tough competition between Creality K1 and Banbu Lab P1P when it comes to printing speed. Creality K1 has exceptional features, including a lightweight print head that incorporates innovative motion systems, and integrated G-sensors that eliminate problems such as resonance, ringing, and ghosting commonly experienced during high-speed printing. Now let’s look into more details about its functions.
12X Faster and Improved Efficiency
Accelerating at 20000mm/s², the Creality K1 ramps up to 600mm/s in only 0.03s. Delivering full speed in 90% of the printing time, it is literally 12 times faster than the other regular FDM 3D printers. But according to our test results, the ideal speed is around 400mm/s. If it exceeds 400mm/s, it requires high demands on both the model and the slicing software. For high-quality prints, it is recommended to lower the speed to 400mm/s.
32mm³/s Max Flow Hotend & Dual-gear Direct Extruder
The newly introduced 32mm³/s Max Flow Hotend & Dual-gear Direct Extruder is revolutionizing the world of 3D printing with its state-of-the-art components. One of its main features is the innovative ceramic heater that surrounds the entire hotend, allowing it to heat up to a scorching 200 Celsius in just 40s, and also melting the filament instantly.
Another feature is the dual-gear direct extruder, which has a powerful extrusion force of up to 50N, allowing you to print more efficiently without any clogs or jams. With such exceptional features, the printer has been designed to deliver reliable, seamless, and quality prints every time.
The hotend is constructed using a high-quality titanium alloy, ensuring it can work with flying colors up to 300 Celsius, and that it won’t have any issues withstanding high temperatures regularly. Its copper alloy nozzle also enables you to print more intricate designs with greater ease and accuracy.
Overall, this cutting-edge technology will significantly enhance your 3D printing experience, elevating the quality of the items you produce and reducing the amount of downtime spent on maintenance.
Model Cooling by Dual Fans
The Creality K1 boasts some impressive features that are sure to turn heads. One of its best features is its large fan that’s situated right on the printhead. This fan features unique air ducts that cool the prints directly, resulting in the perfect temperature control for your prints. With this, you’ll no longer have to worry about your prints warping or distorting after printing.
But that’s not all – the Creality K1 also comes with an 18W auxiliary fan that’s situated in the build chamber, further enhancing the cooling effect. This extra cooling power ensures that your prints come out looking crisp, fresh, and well-defined.
Hands-free Auto Leveling
Gone are the days when you have to fumble around with a screwdriver to level your 3D printer bed manually. the Creality K1 is the embedded strain sensor that is situated on the heatbed. These sensors are designed to generate an accurate leveling mesh, which is fantastic news for anyone who has ever struggled with getting the bed level.
Best of all, the whole process happens automatically, which means you don’t have to worry about manually leveling your bed anymore. Once the printing process starts, the magic happens on its own, ensuring you get the perfect print every time.
Flexible Build Plate & Quick-heating Heatbed
Creality K1 is integrated with a sticky and heat-resistant bed, which will allow you to print with a wide range of filaments. Not only that, but the finely frosted surface makes the model bottom fine and smooth, so there are no more worries about rough edges that can ruin the result of your print.
Once you have printed using the K1, removing your model from the bed won’t be a problem. Thanks to the bendable feature, you can easily remove your prints without damaging the bed or the print itself.
Another impressive feature of this printer is its aluminum alloy heatbed that evenly distributes and quickly spreads heat throughout the bed. Reaching 60℃ in just 180 seconds, you can start printing almost right away.
Creality OS and Hardware
K1 adopts the smart Creality OS. It features a straightforward UI, and syncs data and commands with PC, phone, Cloud, and add-on modules. The dual-core 1.2GHz CPU powers high-speed printing with ease. The 8G ROM stores up to 400 model files and enables quick writing and reading.
Support WiFi Connection and Carefree Control.
K1 can print via USB drive or Wi-Fi. With a network connection, K1 can be controlled or monitored remotely from Creality Print or Creality Cloud APP/WEB. Cluster control is also allowed when many K1 printers are online. Once the printing is complete or abnormal, a notice will be sent to your phone or PC.
K1 Ease of Use
Build Volume
The current printer size of K1 is 220*220*250mm. Compared with its competitor P1P, this size is a bit smaller, which may be disappointing for those who want a large-size machine. If you want to print a large-size machine, there are some other options on the market. It is recommended to choose Bambu lab p1p or wait for the new K1 MAX that will be released in the next one or two months.
Touch Screen
Compared with the p1p display screen, the K1 display is obviously more comfortable to use, with a larger size and the continuation of the previous style of Creality, which will be handier for those who have used Creality machines.
We found that on the display screen, you can move the X and Y axes with the settings of 1mm, 10mm, and 30mm, and conveniently adjust the strength of the model fan, auxiliary tomb, and case fan.
Because of the built-in WIFI function, you can also directly select the local file model and U disk model and view the printing history in the display.
Input/Output Ports
The K1 comes with a 16GB USB-C port with 4 model files inside for testing, and you can also connect to Creality Cloud via wifi so you can slice and print directly.
What we’re not a fan of is the fact that the power inputs and filament spool are mounted on the back side of the 3D printer. It makes it more difficult to keep cables tidy and out of the way.
Creality AI Camera for Monitoring & Time-lapse
Great news! The long-awaited AI camera for K1 and K1 MAX by Creativity 3D is finally on sale. It’s currently priced at around $29.99, and installing it is a breeze. Simply snap the camera onto the upper right corner of your machine, and you’re good to go!
I recently got my hands on this amazing camera, and it has truly exceeded my expectations. Now, with the Creativity Cloud App, I can effortlessly monitor the real-time progress of my 3D prints from anywhere, anytime. Each morning before heading to work, I conveniently set up the machine, and when I return home in the evening, my completed models are ready for me.
What’s more, I can even share captivating time-lapse videos of my printing process with friends. Although the current time-lapse video quality isn’t as crystal-clear as I’d like, I’m actively researching ways to improve it, and I’ll keep you updated. If you’re interested in purchasing this remarkable camera, simply click the link below to get started!
6 Tips for the Creality K1
If you’re using the Creality K1 3D printer, we’ve got some helpful tips that can ensure you get the best possible prints. Here are six tips that will help you get the best results:
Tip #1: Make sure to turn off the arc configure enable setting in the slicer. When this feature is enabled, it can cause artifacts to appear in your prints. To avoid this, simply turn off the arc feature and you’ll get better results.
Tip #2: If you’re printing with TPU, the default profile may be a bit too cool. Try bumping up the temperature to around 250 degrees for better results. Also, slow down your print speeds to around 50 mm/s to get the best performance.
Tip #3: The filament removal routine on the K1 is more automated than you might think. When removing filament, simply press the retract button and let the printer do the work. Don’t manually push the filament in, as this can cause issues. Simply press the extrude button once you’ve inserted your new filament to finish the process.
Tip #4: The bed glue stick may look damaged, but this is normal. Each time you remove a print, some of the glue stick will come off with it. To keep your bed working properly, wash it off periodically and apply a fresh layer of glue stick as needed.
Tip #5: Keep up with firmware updates. Since the K1 is a brand-new printer, updates are being released frequently. These updates can improve the performance of the printer and fix any bugs that may be present.
Tip #6: Inside the slicer under the devices tab, you can select details next to your printer. This will allow you to manage the internal memory and storage on your slicer, making it easy to remove older prints you no longer need.
By following these tips, you can achieve the best results possible when using the Creality K1 3D printer. And if you have any other tips or questions, feel free to leave them in the comments below.
K1 Print Quality
Due to limited time, we printed several files built into the machine for reference.
We will be updating more testing results with details soon.
Specifications:K1 vs K1 Max
| K1 | K1 Max | |
| Product Dimensions | 355*355*480mm | 435*462*526mm |
| Package Dimensions | 415*415*550mm | 508*508*608mm |
| Gross Weight | 16Kg | 23kg |
| Net Weight | 12.5kg | 18kg |
| Input | 100-120V~, 200-240V~, 50/60Hz | 100-240V~, 50/60Hz |
| Output | 24V DC | 24V DC |
| Rated Power | 350W | 1000W |
| Display Screen | 4.3″ Color Touch Screen | 4.3″ Color Touch Screen |
| Printing Technology | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 220×220×250mm | 300×300×300mm |
| Layer Height | 0.1-0.35mm | 0.1-0.35mm |
| Printing Accuracy | 100±0.1mm | 100±0.1mm |
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm | 1.75mm |
| High-speed Filaments | ABS, Hyper PLA | ABS, Hyper PLA |
| Regular Filaments | PLA, PETG, PET | PLA, PETG, PET |
| Flexible Filament | TPU | TPU |
| High-strength Filaments | PA, ABS, ASA, PC | PA, ABS, ASA, PC |
| Wear-resistant Filaments | PLA-CF, PA-CF, PET-CF | PLA-CF, PA-CF, PET-CF |
| Typical Speed | 300mm/s, 12000mm/s² | 300mm/s, 12000mm/s² |
| Max Speed | 600mm/s | 600mm/s |
| Max Acceleration | 20000mm/s² | 20000mm/s² |
| Count | 1 | 1 |
| Extruder | Dual-gear Direct Drive Extruder | Dual-gear Direct Drive Extruder |
| Max Hotend Temp | 300℃ | 300℃ |
| Hotend Heating | Heating to 300℃ within 70s | Heating to 300℃ within 70s |
| Heatbreak | Titanium Alloy | Titanium Alloy |
| Nozzle | Copper Alloy | Hardened Steel |
| Standard Nozzle Diameter | 0.4mm | 0.4mm |
| Optional Nozzle Diameter | 0.6/0.8mm | 0.6/0.8mm |
| Type | Enclosed | Enclosed |
| XY Structure | CoreXY | CoreXY |
| Frame | Unibody Die-cast Aluminum Alloy Frame | Unibody Die-cast Aluminum Alloy Frame |
| Auxiliary Cooling Fan | Yes | Yes |
| Build Surface | Flexible Build Plate | Flexible Build Plate |
| Max Heatbed Temp | 100℃ | 120℃ |
| Heatbed Heating | Heating to 100℃ within 6min | Heating to 100℃ within 3min |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Power Loss Recovery | Yes | Yes |
| File Transfer | WiFi, USB Drive | WiFi, Ethernet, USB Drive |
| Lighting Kit | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Control | Yes | Yes |
| Input Shaping | Yes | Yes |
| Leveling | Hands-free Auto Leveling | Dual Hands-free Auto Leveling |
| Air Purifier | / | Yes |
| Sleep Mode | Yes | |
| Self-test | Yes | |
| Error Notification | Yes | |
| Log Management | Yes | |
| Real-time Monitoring | Optional | Yes |
| Time-lapse Filming | Optional | Yes |
| Failure Detection | Optional | Yes |
| Foreign Object Detection | Optional | Yes |
| Motion Advance | Optional | Yes |
| First Layer Inspection | ||
| Printable File Format | G-code | G-code |
| Slicing Software | Creality Print; Compatible with Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer | Creality Print; Compatible with Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer |
| Supported OS | Windows, MacOS | Windows, MacOS |
| APP | Creality Cloud | Creality Cloud |
Verdict: Is the K1 Worth Buying?
Overall, there are a few things that I really like about the K1. Firstly, the machine’s speed and stability have improved significantly, although achieving a printing speed of 600mm/s requires high demands on both the model and the slicing software. For high-quality prints, it is recommended to lower the speed to 400mm/s. Secondly, the K1 price is acceptable at $599, and there are two free filaments as a gift so the final cost is about $200 less than Bambu Lab P1P. However, its biggest disadvantage is its smaller printing size of 220*220*250 compared to the P1P’s 256*256*256.
In conclusion, choosing between the K1 and P1P printers can be a tough call as they are closely matched in terms of speed and quality. However, the P1P may be a better fit if you have a bigger budget and need a larger printing size. For those who can wait a little longer, the K1 Max is set to be released soon and may offer even more features. On the other hand, if budget is a concern and size is not an issue, the K1 is a solid choice. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your specific needs and preferences.
Pros
- Quick and easy installation for beginners
- Automatic leveling and filament detection
- Prints with various consumables and high-temperature bed
- Built-in fan for excellent printing results
- Real-time monitoring via WiFi
- Automatic detection
- Flexible steel plate for easy removal
Cons
- Many operations cannot be interrupted midway and must be completed before taking any other action.
- Automatic preparation before printing takes around 17 minutes.
- Printing at speeds of 600mm/s can be tricky for good quality but lowering the speed can improve results.
- Speed control is unavailable during printing.
- Lightning-Fast Speed: With an upgraded 600 mm/s…
- Hands-free Auto Leveling: An array of strain…
- Sturdy Frame: Featuring a CoreXY structure, the…
- 32mm³/s Max Flow Hotend: Built-in new ceramic…
- Solve Ringing with G-sensor: Eliminate ringing…
FAQ on Creality K1
Q: What is the maximum size of 3D models I can create with the Creality K1 Printer?
A: The Creality K1’s printing volume is pretty generous, measuring 220 x 200 x 250mm. This allows you to design and create 3D models that are sizeable and intricate. If you need even more space for your big ideas, the K1 Max model will provide you with an enormous printing volume of 300 x 300 x 300mm.
Q: How fast is the Creality K1 compared to other 3D printers?
A: The speed with which the Creality K1 churns out 3D prints is unrivaled! With printing speeds of up to 600mm/s, it’s a mind-blowing 12 times faster than standard FDM 3D printers. This makes the K1 a game-changer for those time-sensitive projects that demand rapid production and quick turnaround times.
Q: What types of materials are compatible with the Creality K1?
A: The Creality K1 is an incredibly versatile 3D printer that works well with a diverse assortment of filaments. Whether you’re printing with ABS, PLA, PETG, PET, TPU, PA (Nylon), ASA, PC (Polycarbonate), PLA-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA), PA-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced PA), or PET-CF (Carbon Fiber Reinforced PET), the K1 can accommodate and produce a vast spectrum of materials. This variety of material options affords designers, craftsmen, and creatives endless possibilities to experiment and innovate with their 3D printing projects.
Q: Can the Creality K1 print with multiple materials like the Bambu Lab Carbon X1 and AMS?
A: The Creality K1 comes with a single extruder, which means it is not capable of printing multiple materials simultaneously. If you want to print with multiple materials in one job, you will need to opt for a 3D printer that has a dual or multi-extruder setup like Bambu Lab Carbon X1 featuring the AMS system. Nevertheless, the printing versatility of Creality K1 is not lagging as it can offer an extensive selection of materials to bring your imaginative designs to life.
Q: Can I connect the Creality K1 printer to WiFi?
A: The Creality K1 is a fantastic 3D printer that is designed to cater to your creative aspirations and printing requirements. The printer is versatile and enables you to print directly via a USB drive or connect with WiFi. If the printer is connected to a network, it offers the convenience of controlling the printer remotely by using the Creality Print or Creality Cloud App/Web. This feature allows you to keep tabs on your projects and be carefree while managing the printer from your phone.
Q: Does the Creality K1 rely on direct drive?
A: The Creality K1 is part of the speedy series of 3D printers that embodies great technological advancements. The K1 model is designed with a powerful central processing unit (CPU), and a swift CoreXY system to ensure that it delivers the best possible performance. Additionally, the printer is equipped with a dual-gear direct drive extruder that has a rapid flow rate. This direct drive technology ensures that the extruder of the K1 is accurately and efficiently placed to produce intricate and detailed designs. With the Creality K1, you’re sure to get professional-grade 3D prints that are sure to impress and enthrall you.
Q: Which system does the K1 and K1 Max use, Marlin or Klipper?
The K1 and K1 Max utilize Creality OS, a customized 3D printer system developed by Creativity 3D, based on the Linux operating system. Creality OS consists of the printer control system, machine screen interface, and machine web interface.
Creality OS is compatible with commonly used G-code commands from Marlin and Klipper, such as Marlin’s G1/G2/G28/M104/M900 commands, as well as Klipper’s customized commands like PAUSE and RESUME.
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