Bambu Lab has released the P2S, an enhanced version of its popular P1S 3D printer, earning praise for its incremental improvements in speed, quality, and usability. The new model introduces advanced features like adaptive airflow and a redesigned extruder, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced users. Priced at $549 standalone or $799 with the multi-color system, it has received CNET's Editors' Choice Award for 2026.
Bambu Lab recently unveiled the P2S, building on the success of the P1S, which was a former best overall 3D printer winner in 2023. This upgrade incorporates elements from the company's flagship X1 Carbon and H2D models, replacing carbon rods with smoother, more maintainable steel rods to reduce costs while preserving performance.
Key enhancements include a redesigned hot end with a magnetic servo extruder from the H2D, boosting maximum force by around 70% for faster filament pushing. It features a hardened steel nozzle and the adaptive airflow system, which pulls cool air into the chamber for materials like PLA and vents warm air out the back. This allows printing with the door closed without quality loss, maintaining optimal chamber temperature.
In testing, the P2S excelled on the CNET test print, achieving a snug 0.2mm tolerance without fusing, sharp steeples free of stringing, and no ringing from vibrations. Overhangs above 65 degrees printed crisply, and multicolor printing remains seamless, compatible with the new AMS2 and original AMS units for up to eight colors—or 20 with multiple units. However, color printing still generates significant waste, with one test model weighing just over half as much as its waste.
The P2S upgrades the P1S's tiny dot matrix display to a large LCD screen running the latest Bambu Lab software, enhancing usability. Setup is straightforward, aided by the Bambu Handy app for monitoring. Reviewers note it fixes minor issues from the predecessor, delivering excellent quality, speed, and accuracy beyond expectations.
At $549 for the base model and $799 for the combo with AMS, the P2S offers strong value, positioning it as the best all-around 3D printer available. It suits users ready to invest in a reliable workhorse for various materials and projects.
