Published on Fri May 05 2023 22:05:17 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The Prusa MK4S: A Deep Dive into the Next Generation of Reliable 3D Printing

The Prusa Research name is synonymous with dependable, high-quality 3D printing. The MK4S builds upon that legacy, offering a refined and more streamlined experience compared to its predecessors. This isn’t just an iterative upgrade; it’s a significant leap forward in print quality, ease of use, and speed. Let’s dissect the MK4S and see what makes it tick.

Detailed Specifications:

• Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) / Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
• Build Volume: 250 x 210 x 220 mm (9.84 x 8.3 x 8.7 in)
• Layer Resolution: 0.05 - 0.3 mm (50 - 300 microns)
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (compatible with other nozzle sizes)
• Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
• Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, Polycarbonate, Nylon, Flex
• Bed Temperature: Up to 120°C (248°F)
• Nozzle Temperature: Up to 300°C (572°F)
• Connectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB
• Print Bed Surface: Double-sided PEI spring steel sheet (removable)
• Motion System: Nextruder direct drive extruder with loadcell sensor
• Controller Board: Custom 32-bit board
• Power Supply: 24V PSU
• Enclosure Compatibility: Designed to work with the Prusa Enclosure (sold separately)
• Frame Material: Aluminum extrusion
• Firmware: Prusa Firmware (open source)
• Slicing Software: PrusaSlicer (recommended, but compatible with other slicers)
• Dimensions (without spool holder): 500 x 550 x 400 mm (19.7 x 21.7 x 15.7 in)
• Weight: Approximately 7 kg (15.4 lbs)

Usage Tips for Optimal Printing:

• First Layer Calibration is Key: While the MK4S is known for its ease of use, a properly calibrated first layer is paramount for successful prints. Use the onboard calibration wizard and fine-tune until you achieve a smooth, slightly squished first layer.
• Material Profiles are Your Friend: PrusaSlicer comes pre-loaded with material profiles for various filament types. Start with these profiles and adjust them based on your specific filament brand and desired print quality.
• Clean Your Print Bed Regularly: A clean PEI sheet ensures optimal adhesion. Wipe it down with isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) before each print. Avoid touching the print surface with your fingers.
• Temperature Matters: Different materials require different temperatures. Consult the filament manufacturer’s recommendations and adjust the nozzle and bed temperatures accordingly.
• Use Supports Strategically: When printing complex geometries, use supports to prevent overhangs from collapsing. Experiment with different support settings in PrusaSlicer to optimize support structure and minimize material waste.
• Don’t Overlook the Power of “Brims”: A brim is a thin layer of material printed around the base of your object to improve adhesion, especially for materials prone to warping like ABS.
• Monitor Your Prints: Even with a reliable printer like the MK4S, it’s a good idea to monitor your prints, especially during the initial layers. This allows you to catch any potential issues early on and prevent wasted material.
• Keep Your Filament Dry: Moisture can significantly impact the print quality of some filaments (especially nylon). Store your filament in a dry place and consider using a filament dryer for best results.
• Stay Updated: Regularly update your printer’s firmware and PrusaSlicer to take advantage of the latest features and bug fixes.
• Lubricate Moving Parts: Occasionally lubricate the Z-axis rods and other moving parts with a suitable lubricant (like PTFE grease) to ensure smooth operation.

Evaluation Metrics:

• Print Quality: 9/10 - The Nextruder and loadcell-based leveling system consistently deliver outstanding print quality with fine details and smooth surfaces.
• Build Volume: 8/10 - The build volume is sufficient for most projects, but it’s not the largest on the market.
• Printing Speed: 9/10 - With the Input Shaper update, the MK4S can print significantly faster without sacrificing print quality.
• Material Compatibility: 9/10 - Supports a wide range of materials, including PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, Polycarbonate, Nylon, and flexibles.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 10/10 - The automatic bed leveling system and the PEI print bed provide excellent adhesion and consistent results.
• Reliability: 9/10 - Built with high-quality components and rigorous testing, the MK4S is known for its reliability.
• Ease of Use: 10/10 - The user-friendly interface, automatic calibration features, and comprehensive documentation make the MK4S easy to use, even for beginners.
• Firmware and Software: 9/10 - Prusa Firmware is robust, feature-rich, and constantly updated. PrusaSlicer is a powerful and versatile slicing software that integrates seamlessly with the printer.
• Connectivity Options: 8/10 - Offers a good range of connectivity options, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and USB.
• Build Quality & Durability: 9/10 - The sturdy aluminum frame and high-quality components ensure long-term durability.
• Noise Level: 7/10 - While not the quietest printer on the market, the noise level is manageable, especially with properly tuned settings.
• Maintenance Requirements: 8/10 - Requires minimal maintenance, mainly consisting of occasional cleaning and lubrication.
• Customer Support: 10/10 - Prusa Research is known for its excellent customer support, providing prompt and helpful assistance.
• Upgradeability: 9/10 - Offers a range of upgrade options, allowing you to enhance its features and capabilities.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 8/10 - The MK4S is not the cheapest printer on the market, but its exceptional performance, reliability, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment.

Average Score: 8.87/10

Conclusion:

The Prusa MK4S is a well-engineered and reliable 3D printer that delivers exceptional print quality, ease of use, and a wide range of features. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or a beginner, the MK4S offers a seamless and enjoyable 3D printing experience. The slightly higher price point is justified by the printer’s performance, durability, and the excellent support ecosystem that comes with the Prusa brand. It’s a workhorse that consistently produces high-quality prints, making it a valuable addition to any maker’s arsenal.

Written by Alex