STACK #265 November 2026

3D PRINTERS FIND YOUR PERFECT FIT continued

TECH FEATURE

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One nozzle or a toolhead changer?

Bambu Lab X2D Combo 3D Printer (Enclosed) & AMS 2 Pro [Excludes Filament] Two nozzles, fewer compromises

The X2D can switch between two nozzles instead of forcing every job through one. That’s particularly useful for complex prints: one nozzle can make the object while the other lays down supports (temporary structures that hold up tricky overhangs) using a different compatible material. The result can be easier cleanup and more freedom with intricate shapes. The second nozzle is best suited to compatible support materials and has more limited filament options than the main nozzle. Turn up the ambition

Conventional automatic multicolour systems usually feed several spools through one nozzle, flushing out the old colour between changes. The Snapmaker U1 swaps among four complete toolheads instead, saving time and greatly reducing purge waste – although not eliminating it. Bambu’s X2D takes another route with two switchable nozzles, useful for combining compatible materials and supports.

An actively heated chamber, rated up to 65°C, helps control the temperature around demanding prints and reduce warping. With a nozzle reaching 300°C, the X2D can handle compatible materials such as ASA, ABS, and nylon. For PLA, it uses ventilation to keep prints from overheating. The main nozzle’s 256 × 256 × 260mm build volume gives you plenty of room to experiment. A watchful eye on long prints Cameras and sensors can detect problems such as filament tangles or a failed print piling up plastic. The included AMS 2 Pro adds automatic filament switching and filament-drying capability. A three-stage filtration system can help reduce airborne particles and odours, although suitable room ventilation is still important. Best for: Experienced makers who want cleaner complex prints, engineering materials, and multicolour capability.

Snapmaker U1 3D Printer The colour-change shortcut

Most automatic multicolour printers push different filaments through the same nozzle. The U1 has four separate toolheads (the assemblies that feed and melt filament) and swaps between them in around five seconds. That can dramatically cut the waiting around on intricate multicolour jobs. Think colourful figurines with lots of small details, not just a simple two-tone sign. More printing, less purging With a shared nozzle, the printer often has to flush out the previous colour before starting the next. Separate toolheads reduce that waste considerably, although not to zero. Snapmaker claims up to 80% less filament waste in selected comparisons; your savings will depend on the design.

You can also combine compatible rigid and flexible filaments in one print or use a separate toolhead for support material on fiddly shapes. Built for big ideas A 270 × 270 × 270mm build volume means room for bigger props or several smaller pieces at once. Automatic calibration and camera monitoring help with longer jobs. The U1 isn’t fully enclosed as standard; Snapmaker recommends an optional top cover for materials such as ASA. JB’s package includes four 500g PLA spools to get your multicolour experiments underway. Best for: Makers who regularly print colourful, complex, or mixed-material projects and want less time and filament lost to switching.

48 NOVEMBER 2026

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