A1 Mini vs P1S
Entry-level compact vs enclosed all-rounder
Quick answer: Get the A1 Mini ($209) if you only print PLA/PETG in small sizes. Get the P1S ($369) if you need ABS/ASA, larger volume, or an enclosed CoreXY; the $160 gap pays for a genuinely different class of machine.
Specs: Bambu Lab A1 Mini tech specs · Bambu Lab P1S tech specs (PDF), checked October 2, 2026
Daily price history · Links to the Bambu Lab store and Amazon are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Which one should I buy?
A1 Mini if you only print PLA/PETG in small sizes. P1S if you need ABS/ASA, larger volume, or an enclosed CoreXY: the $160 difference ($209 vs $369) pays for a genuinely different class of machine.
A1 Mini
- $160 cheaper at its current $209, best value for PLA/PETG-only users
- Compact size, takes up significantly less desk space
- Quick-swap nozzle and easy beginner-friendly setup
- Sufficient build volume (180mm) for miniatures and everyday hobby prints
P1S
- Full enclosure with activated carbon filter, enables ABS and ASA printing (the filter binds VOCs, not particles)
- 2.9x the build volume (256 mm cube), handles larger functional parts
- CoreXY kinematics, more stable motion system for tall prints
- Takes box AMS units (humidity control) without the extra A Series AMS Hub
Specs comparison
| Feature | A1 Mini | P1S |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $209 | $369 |
| Build volume | 180 × 180 × 180 mm | 256 × 256 × 256 mm |
| Kinematics | Bed-slinger | CoreXY |
| Max speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Enclosure | No | Yes (activated carbon only) |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, TPU | PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA |
| AMS compatible | AMS Lite or AMS via hub | AMS (up to 4 units) |
| Touchscreen | 2.4" color | No (2.7" LCD, buttons) |
| Lidar | No | No |
- Larger build volume: 256mm vs 180mm, 2.9x the volume
- Full enclosure: Enables ABS, ASA, and better temperature stability
- Activated carbon filter: Binds VOCs and odour from ABS/ASA printing. It does not capture ultrafine particles, so ventilation still matters
- CoreXY kinematics: More stable for tall prints
- AMS without an extra hub: the A1 Mini needs the A Series AMS Hub for box AMS units
Not sure which to choose? Ask yourself: will you ever need to print ABS or ASA? If no, the A1 Mini (or A1 for more volume) is probably right. If yes, the P1S is worth every dollar of the difference.
Choose A1 Mini if...
- You only print PLA, PETG, or TPU
- You print small objects (under 180mm)
- You're testing whether 3D printing is for you
- Budget is a hard constraint
Choose P1S if...
- You need ABS or ASA (engineering materials)
- You print functional parts needing larger volume
- You're in a shared space and need fume filtration
- You plan serious prototyping or small production
Full specs and review: A1 Mini page · P1S page