Creality K1 vs K1 Max: An In-depth Comparison
The K1 and K1 Max are outstanding FDM 3D printers with a number of common features. Both support a wide range of filaments including PLA, Hyper PLA, PETG, ABS and TPU. Print accuracy for both models is 100±0.1mm and they offer a build height range of 0.1-0.35mm. Both the K1 and K1 Max use a 1.75mm diameter filament and are supplied with a flexible build plate. With the promise of remarkable print speeds of up to 600mm/s and an acceleration of 20000mm/s2, both models offer exceptional performance.
Although these printers are part of the same product line, they offer different features, specifications and user experiences. This article aims to provide an in-depth comparison between the Creality K1 and K1 Max to help potential buyers make an informed decision..
Part 1: K1 vs K1 Max: What Are the Differences
Have a quick look what the differences between Creality K1 and Creality K1 Max
| Model | K1 | K1 Max |
| Printing Technology | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 220*220*250mm | 300*300*300mm |
| Product Dimensions | 355*355*480mm | 435*462*526mm |
| Package Dimensions | 415*415*550mm | 508*508*608mm |
| Net Weight | 12.5kg | 18kg |
| Gross Weight | 16kg | 23kg |
| Supported Filaments | PLA, Hyper PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU,ABS,PA | PLA, Hyper PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU,ABS,PA |
| Printing Accuracy | 100±0.1mm | 100mm±0.1 |
| Layer Height | 0.1-0.35mm | 0.1-0.35mm |
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm | 1.75mm |
| Build Surface | Flexible build plate | Flexible build plate |
| Heatbed Temperature | 100℃ | 100℃ |
| Nozzle Temperature | 300℃ | 300℃ |
| Nozzle | Copper Alloy | Hardened Steel |
| Extruder Count | 1 | 1 |
| Nozzle Diameter | 0.4mm | 0.4mm |
| Printing Speed | 300mm/s | 300mm/s |
| Max. Printing Speed | ≤600mm/s，≤20000mm/s² | ≤600mm/s，≤20000mm/s² |
| Display Screen | 4.3" color touch screen | 4.3" color touch screen |
| UI Languages | 10 Languages | 10 Languages |
| Rated Input Voltage | 100-120V~/200-240V~ | 100-240V~ |
| Output Voltage of Power Adapter | 24V | 24V |
| Rated Power | 350W | 1000W |
| Silent Mainboard | √ | √ |
| Extruder | Dual-gear direct drive extruder | Dual-gear direct drive extruder |
| Power Loss Recovery | √ | √ |
| Filament Runout Sensor | √ | √ |
| Dual Z-axis | 3 Z-axis | 3 Z-axis |
| Leveling Mode | Hands-free auto leveling | Dual hands-free auto leveling |
| Remote Printing | √ | √ |
| Enclosure | √ | √ |
| Remark | AI Camera(Optional), AI LiDAR(Optional) | AI Camera, AI LiDAR |
Part 2: Creality K1 Max Review
The Creality K1 Max is a high-performance 3D printer that offers excellent print accuracy and consistency. It uses FDM technology to produce high quality prints with smooth surfaces and intricate detail. Its large build volume of 300x300x300mm allows larger models to be printed without splitting or joining parts.
The K1 Max features a high quality touch screen interface for easy navigation and control. Its dual Z-axis design and sturdy frame construction ensure stable and accurate prints. One of the outstanding features of the K1 Max is its silent printing capability, which significantly reduces noise and provides a quiet working environment. The printer also has an auto levelling function that simplifies the calibration process and ensures optimal print quality.
The Creality K1 Max also supports a variety of filaments, including PLA, ABS, PETG and more, giving users a wide range of options for their print projects. All in all, the Creality K1 Max is a reliable, efficient and versatile 3D printer that delivers high-quality results.
Part 3: Creality K1 Review
The Creality K1 stands out as a compact and budget-friendly 3D printer, catering perfectly to beginners and hobbyists. Despite its modest size, the K1 provides a respectable print volume of 220x220x250mm, ample for most small to medium-sized projects. Its interface is straightforward and user-friendly, ensuring easy setup and operation.
The K1's commendable build quality is evident in its robust metal frame, providing stability throughout the printing process. Utilizing FDM technology, the printer achieves good print quality with a resolution of up to 0.1mm. It also accommodates various filaments, including PLA and ABS, offering flexibility in material choices.
Notably, the Creality K1 operates quietly, making it well-suited for home use. An exceptional feature is its resume printing function, allowing the printer to continue the printing process following a power outage or filament change, minimizing the risk of print failures. In summary, the Creality K1 proves to be an excellent entry-level 3D printer, delivering outstanding value for money.
Part 4: Which one should you buy? K1 or K1 Max?
The choice between the K1 and K1 Max largely depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget.
If you prioritize performance and advanced features, then the K1 Max could be the better option for you. With its higher storage capacity, faster processor, and extra features, it offers superior performance and efficiency. This makes it perfect for heavy users who need a device for demanding tasks like gaming, multitasking, or professional use.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a more affordable option and don't require the high-end features that the K1 Max offers, then the K1 could suit your needs. It still offers a decent performance, but at a more budget-friendly price point. This makes it a great choice for casual users or those who only need a device for basic tasks like web browsing, checking emails, or watching videos.
Ultimately, both the K1 and K1 Max have their own strengths and can cater to different types of users. So, you should consider your individual needs and preferences when deciding which one to buy. If budget is not a concern, and you want the best performance, opt for the K1 Max. However, if you want to save money and still get a decent performance, the K1 could be the better choice.
Part 5: K1 Series Recommended Filament Parameters
Official Recommended Filament Parameters Setting
| K1 Series Machine Filament Universal Parameters Table | ||||||
Filament Names |
Nozzle Temperature |
Bed Temperature |
Optimal Printing Speed (0.2mm Layer Height) mm/s |
Maximum Volume Flow mm³/s |
Model Cooling |
Auxiliary Cooling |
| Hyper PLA | 220 | 45 | 300 | 23 | 100% | 80% |
| CR-PLA | 230 | 45 | 150 | 20 | 100% | 80% |
| PLA-silk | 230 | 45 | 120 | 10 | 100% | 80% |
| Generic PLA | 230 | 45 | 200 | 18 | 100% | 80% |
| Generic PETG | 250 | 70 | 120 | 9 | 80% | 0% |
| Generic ABS | 260 | 100 | 250 | 20 | 70% | 0% |
| Generic TPU | 230 | 50 | 50 | 3.5 | 100% | 70% |
| CR-PLA Carbon | 220 | 45 | 150 | 11 | 100% | 0% |
| CR-PA Carbon | 250 | 100 | 120 | 10 | 80% | 0% |
| Generic ASA | 260 | 100 | 150 | 15 | 80% | 0% |
| Generic PC | 260 | 100 | 120 | 10 | 80% | 0% |
Tips:
- Filament print speed depends on material properties; follow manufacturer's advice and slicing software settings.
- Apply solid glue evenly on the print bed to enhance first layer adhesion.
- Dry moisture-sensitive materials like PA/PA-CF/TPU prior to printing or store in a dry place.
- For non-official filament, choose generic filament settings in slicing software.
- Use official high-speed filament for superior print quality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the K1 and K1 Max share many features, the K1 Max offers a larger build volume, higher heatbed temperature, and more standard features.
Despite these differences, both printers uphold Creality's commitment to quality, making them excellent choices for anyone looking to venture into 3D printing.
