| Category | Winner | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Print Speed | Bambu Lab P1S | The P1S reaches 500mm/s with 20,000mm/s² acceleration on its CoreXY kinematics. The MK4S is a bed-slinger limited to around 200mm/s for quality prints. For functional parts where speed matters, the P1S finishes in roughly half the time. |
| Print Accuracy | Prusa MK4S | Independent testing (CNC Kitchen) measured the MK4S at an average deviation of 0.067mm and a maximum of 0.162mm. The P1S is accurate but Prusa's loadcell-based first layer calibration and 360° cooling produce more dimensionally precise parts, especially for engineering applications. |
| Multi-Material | Bambu Lab P1S | The P1S supports the AMS system for up to 16 colors with automatic filament switching. The MK4S supports the MMU3 for up to 5 filaments. The AMS is more reliable and handles more materials, though both produce significant waste on color changes. |
| Enclosed Printing | Bambu Lab P1S | The P1S comes fully enclosed with an activated carbon filter, making it suitable for ABS, ASA, and PC printing out of the box. The MK4S is open-frame; an enclosure is available as a paid add-on. For high-temp materials, the P1S is ready on day one. |
| Firmware and Ecosystem | Prusa MK4S | The MK4S runs open-source Marlin-based firmware with full community access to source code, custom modifications, and third-party integrations. The P1S runs proprietary Bambu firmware — reliable but locked down. Prusa publishes CAD files, firmware source, and encourages modification. |
| Material Versatility | Prusa MK4S | The MK4S Nextruder high-flow hotend pushes 24mm³/s volumetric flow and reaches 290°C, handling carbon-filled filaments, nylons, and engineering materials with its hardened nozzle option. The P1S handles most materials but the Nextruder's flow rate gives it an edge for filled filaments. |
Data from PAM Finds