Published on Sat May 23 2020 19:24:35 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Creality Ender 3 S1 Plus: A Deep Dive into the Enhanced 3D Printing Experience

The Creality Ender 3 series has long been a staple in the 3D printing community, known for its affordability and accessibility. The Ender 3 S1 Plus builds upon this legacy, offering a significant step up in terms of build volume and features, making it a compelling option for both beginners and experienced makers. Let’s take a comprehensive look at what this printer brings to the table.

Detailed Specifications:

• Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 300 mm (11.8 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches)
• Machine Size: 557 x 535 x 655 mm
• Net Weight: 10.7 kg
• Printing Accuracy: ±0.1 mm
• Layer Height: 0.05-0.4 mm
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (standard)
• Nozzle Temperature: Up to 260°C
• Heat Bed Temperature: Up to 100°C
• Print Speed: Up to 150 mm/s
• Motherboard: 32-bit Silent Motherboard
• Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
• Supported Filaments: PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS (with enclosure recommended)
• Power Supply: 350W
• Connectivity: SD Card, USB-C
• Display: 4.3-inch Touchscreen
• Leveling Mode: Automatic Bed Leveling (CR Touch)
• Extruder Type: “Sprite” Direct Drive Extruder
• Resume Printing: Yes
• Filament Sensor: Yes

Usage Tips and Tricks:

• Assembly: While mostly pre-assembled, pay close attention to the instructions, especially when connecting the Z-axis gantry to the base. Double-check all screws for tightness.
• Bed Leveling: The CR Touch auto bed leveling is a fantastic feature. However, performing a manual bed leveling with the adjustment knobs before running the auto-leveling routine can greatly improve accuracy.
• Adhesion: Clean the PEI build plate thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) before each print. For stubborn materials like ABS, consider using a brim or raft.
• Slicing Settings: Experiment with different slicing profiles in software like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or Simplify3D. Adjust temperature, speed, and retraction settings to optimize print quality for specific filaments.
• Filament Management: Keep your filament dry! Store it in an airtight container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to printing issues.
• First Layer: The first layer is crucial. Ensure the nozzle is at the correct distance from the bed – not too close (squishing the filament) and not too far (filament not sticking). Adjust Z-offset in the printer settings if needed.
• Print Speed: While the printer can reach 150mm/s, starting with a slower speed (e.g., 50-60mm/s) can help improve print quality, especially with complex models or challenging materials.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean the nozzle, check belt tension, and lubricate the Z-axis lead screws to keep the printer running smoothly.
• Upgrades: The Ender 3 S1 Plus has an extensive upgrade path. Popular upgrades include a dual Z-axis lead screw kit for improved stability, a higher-temperature hotend for more advanced filaments, and a different build plate surface depending on printing needs.

Evaluation of the Ender 3 S1 Plus

Here’s a breakdown of how the Ender 3 S1 Plus performs in key areas, rated out of 10:

• Print Quality: 8/10 - Capable of producing highly detailed prints with proper calibration and settings.
• Build Volume: 9/10 - The expanded build volume opens up possibilities for larger and more complex prints.
• Printing Speed: 7/10 - While it can reach 150mm/s, optimal results are often achieved at slower speeds.
• Material Compatibility: 8/10 - Handles PLA, TPU, and PETG with ease. ABS requires an enclosure for best results.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 9/10 - The CR Touch auto-leveling and PEI build plate provide excellent adhesion.
• Reliability: 8/10 - A solid and dependable printer with proper maintenance.
• Ease of Use: 8/10 - The touchscreen interface and auto-leveling simplify the printing process, especially for beginners.
• Firmware and Software: 7/10 - Creality’s firmware is functional but can be improved. Using community-made firmware like Marlin can enhance functionality and customization.
• Connectivity Options: 7/10 - SD card and USB-C connectivity are standard. WiFi connectivity would be a welcome addition.
• Build Quality & Durability: 8/10 - Solid construction and durable components contribute to a long lifespan.
• Noise Level: 7/10 - The silent motherboard significantly reduces noise compared to older models.
• Maintenance Requirements: 6/10 - Regular cleaning and lubrication are necessary to maintain optimal performance.
• Customer Support: 5/10 - Creality’s customer support can be hit-or-miss. The community is a valuable resource.
• Upgradeability: 9/10 - Highly upgradeable with a wide range of available modifications.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9/10 - Offers exceptional value for the features and performance it provides.

Average Score: 7.6/10

Conclusion:

The Creality Ender 3 S1 Plus is a well-rounded 3D printer that delivers excellent value for its price. Its large build volume, automatic bed leveling, and direct drive extruder make it a versatile machine suitable for a wide range of projects. While there are areas for improvement, such as customer support and firmware, the Ender 3 S1 Plus remains a top contender in the budget-friendly 3D printer market.

Written by Alex