Creality K1 vs. K1 Max vs. K1C: An In-depth Comparison

In April 2023 , Creality launched its flagship 3D printers, the K1 and K1 Max , marking a significant transition from the budget-conscious Ender 3 series toward high-performance fully enclosed, high-speed 3D printing with the integration of advanced AI technology. These innovations not only improved speed and function but also quickly garnered widespread acclaim and popularity.

The K1 series will soon welcome a new addition, the K1C , slated for release in 2024 with pre-sales kicking off on January 25. Marketed as the " Champion of Speed and Skill, " the K1C is tailored for carbon fiber 3D printing, sharing key elements with its predecessors, the K1 and K1 Max, whilst introducing several noteworthy enhancements.

This article aims to offer a detailed comparative analysis of the K1, K1 Max, and K1C models to help you identify the 3D printer that best matches your requirements. For more specific information about the K1C model, please click here .

K1 Series Key Features

Overview of Similarities in the K1 Series

Comprehensive Comparison of Differences in the K1 Series

Finding Your Fit: Choosing Between K1, K1 Max, or K1C

Part1: K1 Series Key Features Let's dive into the technical specs of the K1, K1 Max, and K1C, covering key machine details, printing parameters, print speed, filament compatibility, printer features, and more.

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Information

Product Dimensions 355*355*480mm 435*462*526mm 355*355*482mm Package Dimensions 415*415*550mm 508*508*608mm 428*428*567mm Net Weight 12.5kg 18kg 12.4kg Gross Weight 16kg 23kg 16kg Display Screen 4.3" color touch screen 4.3" color touch screen 4.3" color touch screen Electronic Rated Input Voltage 100-120V~/200-240V~ 100-240V~ 100-240V~, 50/60Hz Output Voltage 24V DC 24V DC 24V DC Rated Power 350W 1000W 350W Printing

Parameters

Printing Technology FDM FDM FDM Build Volume 220*220*250mm 300*300*300mm 220*220*250mm Printing Accuracy 100±0.1mm 100mm±0.1 100±0.1mm Layer Height 0.1-0.35mm 0.1-0.35mm 0.1-0.35mm Sprinting

Speed

Typical Printing Speed 300mm/s 300mm/s 300mm/s Max. Printing Speed ≤600mm/s ≤600mm/s ≤600mm/s Acceleration ≤20000mm/s² ≤20000mm/s² ≤20000mm/s² Supported

Filament

Filament Diameter 1.75mm 1.75mm 1.75mm High speed ABS/Hyper PLA ABS/Hyper PLA ABS/Hyper PLA Regular PLA/PETG/PET PLA/PETG/PET PLA/PETG/PET Flexible TPU TPU TPU Strength PA/ABS/ASA/PC PA/ABS/ASA/PC PA/ABS/ASA/PC Wear-resistant / / PLA-CF/PA-CF/PET-CF Nozzle

Components

Extruder Count 1 1 1 Extruder Dual-gear direct drive extruder All-metal direct drive extruder Nozzle Material Copper Alloy Hardened Steel Tri-metal Nozzle Integrated Nozzle Diameter 0.4mm (Standard) 0.4mm (Standard) 0.4mm (Standard) Nozzle Optional 0.6mm, 0.8mm 0.6mm, 0.8mm 0.6mm, 0.8mm Nozzle Temperature 300℃ 300℃ 300℃ Printing

Platform

Build Surface PEI Flexible build plate PEI Flexible build plate PEI Flexible build plate Heatbed Temperature 100℃ 100℃ 100℃ Heating time 30℃-300℃ ( ≤ 6min. ) 30℃-300℃ ( ≤ 3min. ) 30℃-300℃ ( ≤ 6min. ) Machine

Features

Silent Mainboard Yes Yes Yes Power Loss Recovery √ √ √ Filament Runout Sensor √ √ √ Dual Z-axis 3 Z-axis 3 Z-axis 3 Z-axis Leveling Mode Hands-free auto leveling Dual hands-free auto leveling Hands-free auto leveling Remote Printing Yes Yes Yes Enclosure Yes Yes Yes Air Purifier / √ √ Sleep Mode / / √ Software File Transfer USB drive, WiFi USB drive, WiFi USB drive, WiFi Printable File Format G-Code G-Code G-Code File Formats for Slicing STL, OBJ, AMF STL, OBJ, AMF STL, OBJ, 3MF Slicing Software Creality Print; Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer UI Languages 10 Languages 10 Languages 10 Languages Smart AI AI Camera Optional √ √ AI LiDAR / √ / Part2: Overview of Similarities in the K1 Series

Let's kick off by highlighting what the Creality K1, K1 Max, and K1C printers have in common. First off, all three printers arrive almost fully assembled, making setup a breeze—expect to get them up and running in just about 20 minutes. Once assembled, the touchscreen guides you through automatic calibration and a self-test to ensure the hardware is in tip-top shape. If all checks out, you're all set for your first print.

1. Printing Speed A standout feature they have in common is the CoreXY configuration, which offers enhanced motor precision, a more compact design, and remarkable print speeds up to 600 mm/s, with acceleration hitting 20,000 mm/s².

2. Build Plate The K1 series printers come equipped with a heated aluminum alloy bed for quick and uniform heating. The build platform uses a flexible smooth PEI sheet, ensuring robust adhesion for both minuscule and sizable prints. Sometimes, a dab of glue might further boost adhesion. Its enclosed architecture facilitates effortless printing with high-temperature materials like ABS and ASA.

3. UI Design Each printer boasts a user-friendly 4.3-inch color touchscreen, making it easy to preview your models before printing. They run on a Creality-optimized version of Klipper, upgraded by Creality to let users leverage the advantages of Klipper, including tailored optimization profiles and access to an open-source community eager to dive into more advanced functionalities.

4. Software The Creality K1, K1 Max, and K1C models are supported by the official Creality Print slicing software and are compatible with widely used 3D printing software like Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer, etc. This versatility gives users the freedom to pick the slicing software that fits their preferences and production style best.

Part3: Comprehensive Comparison of Differences in the K1 Series While all models share some core features, there are distinctive differences between the K1, K1 Max, and K1C worth highlighting:

1. Build Volume The K1 Max truly lives up to its "Max" moniker, boasting an expansive build volume of 300 x 300 x 300 mm. This space allows for printing larger models in one piece, eliminating the need for post-print assembly. On the other hand, the K1 and K1C both offer a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250 mm, akin to the standard Ender 3 size.

2. Rated Power & Mainboard With a staggering 1000W power rating, the K1 Max stands head and shoulders above the rest, compared to the 350W of the K1 and K1C. This power advantage enables quick temperature ramps—reaching 60℃ in just 90 seconds—consistent heating at varying voltages (220V and 110V), and the capability to directly power upgrades from the motherboard, including the upcoming Creality multi-material system.

3. Filament Support

Both the K1 and K1 Max are versatile in their filament compatibility, supporting materials like PLA, Hyper PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and PA. The K1C, distinguished by the "C" for "Carbon," expands upon this palette to include wear-resistant filaments such as PLA-CF, PA-CF, and PET-CF.

With an all-metal integrated nozzle and throat, the K1C ensures smooth filament flow, extended durability, and simple upkeep. Its advanced all-metal proximal extruder offers consistent extrusion and precise control, promoting exceptional print quality.

4. Enhanced AI Support The K1, K1 Max, and K1C models each boast innovative AI capabilities, albeit with varying configurations. For instance, the K1 offers a Smart AI camera as an optional enhancement, while the K1C comes standard with the AI camera included. The K1 Max, meanwhile, stands apart by featuring both "AI LiDAR" and an "AI Camera," positioning it at the forefront in terms of functionality.

Specifically, the K1 Max benefits from AI-driven features that improve print quality and minimize the risk of failed prints, ultimately saving on filament costs. Its LiDAR sensors expertly map the initial layer, ensuring optimal adhesion and flow calibration from the get-go. Moreover, its AI camera continuously oversees the printing process, identifies any issues, and records time-lapse videos.

5. Pricing The entry-level K1 is priced at CA$709, with the K1C available for pre-order at $750 (enjoying a 5% discount off its standard price of $789). The K1 Max, with its advanced features, commands an approximate CA$460 premium. While these upgrades mainly offer convenience, they significantly boost print quality and safety. Diving deeper into the enhancements:

The K1 features a ventilation fan, but the K1 Max goes a step further by incorporating a carbon air filter. Additionally, the K1 Max boasts a more substantial build volume of 300 x 300 x 300 mm and is equipped with superior AI-assisted functions like "AI LiDAR" and "AI Camera," enhancing print success rates. That said, for those looking to upgrade the K1 affordably, opting for the AI camera accessory is a cost-effective alternative to purchasing the K1 Max outright.

Part4: Finding Your Fit: Choosing Between K1, K1 Max, or K1C .shop-list { margin: 0 auto; width: 800px; } .shop-wrap { display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; padding-bottom: 20px; border-bottom: 1px solid #A6A6A6; } .shop-img { width: 200px; } .text-content { flex: 1; } .btn-wrap { width: 100%; margin-top: 14px; display: flex; justify-content: flex-end; } .shop-btn { width: 120px; height: 28px; text-align: center; line-height: 28px; background-color: #D8383B; color: #ffffff; font-size: 15px; font-weight: 500; } .shop-title { width: 480px; text-align: center; margin: 0 auto; background-color: #d8383b; color: #fff; padding: 1px 75px; font-size: 15px; font-weight: 500; } .line { width: 100%; height: 3px; background-color: #D8383B; margin-bottom: 14px; } .text-link { font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; color: #1C2AA3; } K1 Speedy 3D Printer Creality K1 Speed Rules All: An Epic Leap Forward CA$709.00 Online 【Rapid Printing: 600mm/s Speed 20000mm/s² Acceleration】 【Effortless Auto-Leveling】 【Solid Unibody Frame】 【Auxiliary Cooling Fan in Chamber】 【Intelligent Control: Remote Control and Self-Tests】 【User-Friendly Design: Suits Beginners and Experts】 BUY NOW K1 Max 3D Printer Creality K1 Max 3D Printer: Speedy. Smart. Super CA$1249.00 Online 【Rapid Printing: 600mm/s Speed 20000mm/s² Acceleration】 【Core XY Nimble Setup for Speed: Agile and Swift】 【Ceramic Heater Encircles the Hotend: Max. 32mm³/s Flow】 【Model Cooling by Dual Fans】 【Max Capacity 300x300x300mm, Efficient Use of Space】 【AI-assisted Carefree Printing】 BUY NOW K1C 3D Printer Creality K1C 3D Printer: Champion of Speed and Skills CA$789.00

【Rapid Printing: 600mm/s Speed 20000mm/s² Acceleration】 【Clog-free All-metal Extruder Kit】 【Supporting Carbon Fiber Filaments】 【Observant Al Camera】 【Pleasant Air While Printing】 【Quieter Than Ever, Silent Mode ≤ 45dB* 】 BUY NOW Determining the best value among the K1, K1 Max, and K1C really boils down to what you value most.

If you're budget-conscious, the K1 offers incredible speed and quality at the most affordable price point.

Those looking to tackle large-scale models and want the latest AI features for seamless printing will find the K1 Max to be perfect. It builds on the K1’s strengths and includes premium upgrades, though it's priced a bit higher.

For enthusiasts interested in working with carbon fiber filaments or who prioritize a quiet printing environment, the K1C is your go-to. It features enhancements in the nozzle and extruder for quiet operation.

In essence, while the K1, K1 Max, and K1C share many core qualities, the distinctions between them introduce significant upgrades that can be seen as high-end features.

Conclusion To wrap up, the Creality K1, K1 Max, and K1C are standout 3D printers offering superb printing speed and top-notch quality. Take the step today and choose the 3D printer that best meets your needs and preferences.

Creality K1 vs. K1 Max vs. K1C: An In-depth Comparison

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