I did a lot of research before purchasing a 3D printer. Previously, I owned the Qidi X-Max 3, which had several calibration issues and required frequent adjustments. Initially, I thought their tech support was poor, but in reality, they were quite good—they responded promptly and helped me troubleshoot problems.
Based on my research, I decided to buy the Bambu X1E, expecting it to be a better choice. However, I now realize that was a huge mistake. I wasted $1,000 on what turned out to be an overhyped and poorly supported product.
The local dealer I purchased from was terrible at communication. They kept telling me my replacement parts would arrive “by the end of the week,” but after multiple calls and emails, their only response was that their tech support was unavailable. Eventually, I diagnosed the issue myself: the mainboard and AP board had failed.
When I tried to purchase replacements, I discovered that no one would sell them to me without a service ticket. I contacted the dealer, but since they hadn’t sold the printer themselves, they told me there was nothing they could do. Instead, I was forced to go through Bambu Lab, leaving me stuck with an expensive paperweight.
To make matters worse, nothing from the X1E is interchangeable with the X1C, so I couldn’t even source parts from a more widely supported model. I explained my urgent need to MatterHackers, as I had contracted jobs to complete, but they showed no concern for my deadlines. Even after getting help from friends who use the X1C, I was still unable to get my printer working.
Frustrated, I ended up purchasing a Creality K1 Max, which has been trouble-free so far. I honestly wish I had gone with it from the start.
Right now, I still have an expensive Bambu X1E that I’ve been completely unable to repair due to poor support and the inability to source parts. If you’re considering buying one, don’t do it—unless you want to end up with a high-dollar paperweight like me.
