Summary
Highlights
The Prusa CORE One L is introduced as a larger version of its predecessor, with twice the print volume but similar outer dimensions. The video aims to evaluate its performance and address previous annoyances. The machine is priced at €1,699 or $1,799 for the assembled version, with no kit available due to the switch to a mains AC heated bed. Unboxing and setup are straightforward, taking about 10 minutes.
The CORE One L is slightly lighter than the regular CORE One due to the use of aluminum panels. The design features a sturdy black frame, tinted windows, and colored accents, which the reviewer finds unique and appealing, describing it as having a 'steampunk, post-Soviet vibe' in contrast to the clean Bambu Lab aesthetic.
The CORE One L doubles the build volume to 300x300x320 mm. The heatbed reaches 120 °C and acts as an active chamber heater, achieving up to 60 °C, suitable for technical materials. The hotend reaches 290 °C. It includes a brass high-flow nozzle and a hardened steel standard-flow nozzle. The satin PEI spring steel sheet is a good all-rounder, and new plates have QR codes for future compatibility checks. The printer features a linear rail on the X-axis and guide rods on the Y-axis. The Prusa MMU3 will be available as an accessory.
The CORE One L shows improvements in print quality, with reduced VFA (Volumetric Flow Artifacts) due to slicer trickery and belt tension adjustments. While most prints look good, some surface inconsistencies can still be observed on smooth curves and when the printer slows down for cooling. Lowering the external perimeter speed to 70 mm/s significantly improves surface smoothness. The printer can print fast, matching Bambu Lab speeds, but this can introduce VFAs. A 3DBenchy printed in 40 minutes shows good overall quality but still exhibits some VFAs and small gaps due to potentially high pressure advance settings.
The reviewer expresses frustration with the lack of built-in pressure advance calibration in PrusaSlicer, forcing users to use OrcaSlicer for this. Nozzle cleaning errors, a recurring issue on the old CORE One, still occur, highlighting the absence of a nozzle wiper found on many other printers. However, the top vent is now actuated automatically, and the top panel can be removed for maintenance. The filament path is improved, and a switch on the first filament sensor aids in feeding flexible filaments, although a second sensor at the extruder can still cause issues.
The noise level during printing is acceptable, measuring around 50-55 dBA with peaks up to 60 dBA. It is completely silent when idle. The optional Prusa advanced air filtration system (developed with Alveo3D) is highly recommended for filtering fumes and particles, creating slight negative pressure inside the chamber. However, filters can increase internal temperatures.
Prusa Connect, the cloud-based management platform, offers remote print monitoring and management, even for multiple printers, and is comparable to Bambu Lab's cloud experience. Prusa Easy Print allows browser-based slicing for Printables models, catering to less technical users. A future implementation is the OpenPrintTag RFID system for filament spools, which will automatically detect filament type and remaining material. However, the CORE One L does not yet have an RFID reader.
The Prusa CORE One L is deemed a significant improvement over its predecessor, primarily due to quality-of-life enhancements and a better heated bed. While not perfect in print quality compared to some competitors, it offers a solid experience. The reviewer emphasizes that Prusa machines appeal to users who value Western manufacturing, open-source principles, repairability, excellent customer support, and the option to avoid cloud services. It's recommended for those seeking solid quality and long-term support rather than the absolute best 'bang-for-your-buck' machine in terms of features and price compared to competitors like Bambu Lab.