Late in cycle — a new model is likely coming soon
Best for: Professional makers, studios, and engineers who need large-format printing with genuine multi-material capability, open-source hardware, and Prusa's long-term support.
Full details →Late in cycle — a new model is likely coming soon
Best for: Makers who need enclosed CoreXY printing for PA-CF and ASA on a budget — and want a capable alternative to Bambu without the ecosystem lock-in.
Full details →| Prusa Research XL | Creality K1C | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Professional | Prosumer |
| Motion | CoreXY | CoreXY |
| Build Volume | 360 × 360 × 360 mm | 220 × 220 × 250 mm |
| Max Speed | 500 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Multicolor | ✅ 5 slots | ❌ No |
| Enclosure | ❌ | ✅ |
| Auto Calibration | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open Source | ✅ | ❌ |
| Upgrade Kit | — | — |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA, PA-CF, PC | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA-CF |
| Released | Nov 20, 2023 | Jan 20, 2024 |
| Cycle length | ~730 days | ~450 days |
| Cycle advice | Wait | Wait |
| Deals advice | Buy | Buy |
| Next model | Prusa XL 2 (Expected late 2026) | K1C 2 or K2 successor (Expected mid-2026) |
Unlike filament-switching AMS/MMU systems, the XL physically swaps print heads. Each material has its own nozzle, eliminating purge towers entirely and enabling true multi-material prints.
One of the largest build volumes available in a CoreXY printer at this price point — suited for large props, architectural models, and batch production.
Every component is documented, parts are stocked for years, and the community has developed hundreds of modifications and improvements.
The K1C ships with a hardened steel nozzle rated for carbon-fiber filaments — a significant cost advantage over printers that require aftermarket nozzle upgrades.
Few printers under $400 offer genuine enclosure capability. The K1C delivers ABS and ASA-capable chamber temperatures.
Competitive speed with Bambu's P-series at a fraction of the price.