Bambu Lab A1 vs. P1S: Which 3D Printer is Best for Cookie Cutters?
If you're looking to 3D print cookie cutters, choosing the right printer can make a huge difference in cost, quality, and ease of use. With Bambu Lab offering multiple options, it's not always clear which one is the best fit for home bakers and small business owners.
The A1 Mini, A1, and P1S are three of the most talked-about printers in the Bambu lineup. While they share similarities in print quality, their price, maintenance, and running costs vary significantly. And if you're running a small cookie business, every dollar you save on equipment and electricity adds up.
So, which printer should you choose?
In this post, we'll compare the A1 Mini, A1, and P1S based on:
- Price & Build Volume – Which one gives you the best value?
- Print Quality – Which printer produces the sharpest embossers and cleanest cookie cutters?
- Ease of Maintenance – Which one requires the least effort to keep running smoothly?
- Power Consumption & Running Cost – How much will each printer cost to run long-term?
- Noise Levels – Which printer is quietest, and does it matter?
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear answer on which Bambu Lab printer is the best choice for printing cookie cutters. Plus, I’ll share my personal experience and why I prefer the A1 series over the P1S for this specific purpose.
Price & Build Volume: Which Printer Offers the Best Value?
When investing in a 3D printer for cookie cutters, price and build volume are two of the most important considerations. You need a machine that fits your budget while offering enough print space to accommodate a variety of designs. So, how do the A1 Mini, A1, and P1S stack up in terms of cost and print area?
Breaking Down the Cost vs. Build Volume
| Printer | Base Price (Without AMS) | Build Volume (mm) | Cost per cm³ |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 Mini | $329 | 180 × 180 × 180 | $0.056/cm³ |
| A1 | $499 | 256 × 256 × 256 | $0.029/cm³ |
| P1S | $899 | 256 × 256 × 256 | $0.054/cm³ |
Looking at these numbers, the A1 Mini is the most affordable option, making it ideal for home bakers or small businesses just starting out. However, it also has the smallest build volume, meaning you may need to print larger cookie cutters in multiple pieces.
If you're looking for the best value overall, the A1 is the clear winner. It provides the same build volume as the P1S at nearly half the price, making it the most cost-effective option for bakers who need a balance of affordability and print size.
The P1S is the most expensive option, yet it doesn’t offer any additional build volume over the A1. The extra cost comes from its fully enclosed design, which helps with high-temperature materials like ABS but isn’t necessary for printing cookie cutters made from PLA.
Bambu Lab’s “Sales” – Don’t Be Fooled
One thing you might notice when shopping for a P1S is that it’s almost always on sale. It’s easy to assume you’re getting a great deal, but the truth is that Bambu Lab has been running a constant “discount” since the printer launched.
This means the “sale price” is actually just the regular price.
The A1 and A1 Mini, on the other hand, are newer releases, and Bambu Lab hasn’t inflated their pricing with false discounts. So if you see the P1S on sale for $899 down from $999, don’t assume you’re getting a bargain—it’s just a marketing tactic.
Why Build Volume Matters for Cookie Cutter Printing
When printing cookie cutters, you’ll want enough space to print multiple designs at once or accommodate larger, single-piece designs.
- A1 Mini: Ideal for smaller cookie cutters, but limited in size.
- A1 & P1S: More flexibility due to larger build volume, allowing you to batch print multiple cutters at once.
One thing to consider: if you're printing large custom cookie cutters or embossed stamps, the A1 Mini's build volume may feel restrictive. The A1 offers the best cost-to-space ratio, giving you more room to work with without the unnecessary cost of an enclosed frame like the P1S.
Final Verdict on Price & Build Volume
- Best budget-friendly option: A1 Mini
- Best overall value: A1
- Not worth the extra cost for cookie cutters: P1S
Key Takeaway: If you need maximum value for money, the A1 is the best choice. If space is an issue, the A1 Mini is a great budget alternative. Unless you specifically need an enclosed printer, the P1S isn’t worth the extra cost for cookie cutter printing.
Print Quality: Does the A1 Series Perform Better?
When it comes to printing cookie cutters and embossers, print quality is crucial. You want sharp edges, clean details, and minimal post-processing. So, how do the A1 Mini, A1, and P1S compare in real-world performance?
Print Resolution & Detail Comparison
At their core, all three printers use the same Bambu Lab slicer and have similar motion systems, so they should theoretically produce similar results. However, in practice, the A1 series often outperforms the P1S when it comes to printing fine details—especially on embossers and intricate designs.
The A1 Mini and A1 produce sharper embossers and less stringing than the P1S. This comes down to the improved motion system and better tuning on the A1 series.
Key Differences in Print Quality:
- Less Stringing & Cleaner Embossers – The A1 series handles detailed embossers better with less post-processing required.
- Sharper Text & Fine Details – A 0.2mm nozzle on the A1 Mini or A1 produces crisper embossing compared to the P1S.
- Better First Layer Consistency – The A1 series has a more reliable first-layer calibration, reducing failures.
Side-by-Side Print Quality Comparisons
Let’s break it down further by comparing how each printer handles fine details, stringing, and first-layer consistency:
| Feature | A1 Mini | A1 | P1S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fine Detail Quality | Crisp, accurate embossers | Same as A1 Mini | Slightly more stringing |
| Stringing Issues | Minimal stringing | Minimal stringing | More stringing, requires cleanup |
| First-Layer Consistency | Reliable first layers | Reliable first layers | Can require more tuning |
| Best for Cookie Embossers? | Yes! | Yes! | Needs cleanup |
Key Takeaway: If you’re printing detailed cookie embossers, the A1 Mini & A1 are the better choices. The P1S tends to produce more stringing, meaning you’ll spend more time cleaning up prints before using them.
First Layer Performance: Why It Matters for Cookie Cutters
A strong first layer is critical for printing cookie cutters and embossers because:
- It ensures clean, sharp edges for cutters.
- It prevents warping or weak adhesion, which can ruin a print.
- A well-calibrated first layer reduces failed prints, saving time and material.
The A1 series has a more reliable first-layer calibration system than the P1S. This means fewer failed prints, and you don’t have to fine-tune the bed leveling as often.
Nozzle Size & Print Quality: Why It Matters for Embossers
One of the biggest advantages of 3D printing your own embossers is the ability to switch to a 0.2mm nozzle for sharper details.
| Nozzle Size | Best For | Works Well On |
|---|---|---|
| 0.4mm | Cookie Cutters, Simple Shapes | A1 Mini, A1, P1S |
| 0.2mm | Fine Text, Detailed Embossers | A1 Mini, A1, ❌ P1S (requires more post-processing) |
While all three printers support swapping nozzles, the A1 Mini & A1 make the process significantly easier. On the P1S, swapping nozzles requires removing screws and disassembling the hotend, whereas on the A1 series, it’s a quick-release clip system.
Final Verdict on Print Quality
- Best for crisp embossing & details: A1 Mini / A1
- Best for first-layer consistency: A1 Mini / A1
- Requires more cleanup: P1S
Key Takeaway: If you regularly print detailed embossers, the A1 Mini or A1 will give you better results with less stringing and cleanup. The P1S is still capable, but you may spend more time post-processing prints.
Maintenance & Ease of Use: Which Printer is Easier to Maintain?
When you’re running a small business or regularly printing cookie cutters, the last thing you want is a printer that requires constant adjustments, maintenance, or complicated part swaps.
One of the biggest reasons why I prefer the A1 series over the P1S is ease of maintenance. The A1 Mini and A1 are designed to be low-maintenance, whereas the P1S requires more hands-on upkeep, especially when it comes to belt tensioning and nozzle swapping.
Linear Rails vs. Belts: Why It Matters
One of the biggest maintenance differences between the A1 series and the P1S is how they move.
- The A1 Mini & A1 use linear rails, which provide smoother movement and reduce long-term wear and tear.
- The P1S uses belts, which require occasional tensioning to keep prints accurate.
Why does this matter?
With a belt-driven printer like the P1S, over time the belts can stretch, causing print shifts or inaccuracies. This means you’ll need to manually check and adjust belt tension, which isn’t something everyone wants to deal with.
Advantage: The A1 series requires almost no motion system maintenance, while the P1S needs occasional belt tensioning.
Do the A1 Mini & A1 Require Maintenance?
Yes, the A1 Mini and A1 do require occasional lubrication for their linear rails. However, the difference is:
- The printer reminds you when it’s time to lubricate (so you won’t forget).
- It’s a quick and easy process—just apply lubricant to the rails.
- No manual adjustments are needed, unlike belt tensioning on the P1S.
While both printers need occasional maintenance, the A1 series makes it easier with automated reminders and a simple lubrication process.
Nozzle Swapping: A1 Series is Much Easier
If you’re printing cookie cutters and embossers, you’ll likely want to swap nozzles at some point—using a 0.4mm nozzle for cutters and a 0.2mm nozzle for fine embossing.
Here’s how nozzle swapping compares:
| Printer | Nozzle Swapping Process | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| A1 Mini / A1 | Quick-release clips, no screws required | Under 1 min |
| P1S | Remove screws, disassemble hotend | 5+ mins |
On the P1S, swapping nozzles is a hassle because you have to remove screws and take apart the entire hotend assembly. If you don’t have a spare hotend, you’ll need to fully disassemble your existing one just to change nozzles.
On the A1 Mini & A1, the process is much faster—just pop open a couple of clips, swap the nozzle, and you’re done.
Key Takeaway: If you plan to switch between a 0.4mm and 0.2mm nozzle, the A1 series makes the process significantly easier.
Auto-Bed Leveling: Another Win for the A1 Series
A properly leveled bed is critical for getting clean, even first layers, especially when printing cookie cutters.
- The A1 Mini & A1 have improved auto-bed leveling, making first layers more consistent with less manual tuning.
- The P1S sometimes requires additional fine-tuning and manual adjustments.
This means fewer failed prints, which saves time and material costs.
Advantage: The A1 series offers more reliable auto-bed leveling, reducing print failures.
Final Verdict on Maintenance & Ease of Use
- Easiest to maintain: A1 Mini / A1 (No belts, auto-lubrication reminders, quick nozzle swaps).
- Requires more manual upkeep: P1S (Belt tensioning, manual nozzle swaps, occasional bed tuning).
Key Takeaway: The A1 series is significantly easier to maintain, especially if you plan on switching nozzles frequently. While all printers require some maintenance, the A1 Mini & A1 require less hands-on effort compared to the P1S.
Power Consumption & Running Cost: How Much Does Each Printer Cost to Run?
When you’re printing cookie cutters regularly, electricity costs can start to add up—especially if you’re running multiple printers at once. The A1 Mini, A1, and P1S all have different power requirements, so let’s break down how much each one costs to run over time.
Power Consumption Breakdown
Each printer has different idle power usage, average printing power, and peak power draw. Here’s how they compare:
| Printer | Printing Power Usage (W) | Max Power Draw (W) |
|---|---|---|
| A1 Mini | 80W | 150W |
| A1 | 95W | 1300W |
| P1S | 185W | 1100W |
- The A1 Mini is the most energy-efficient, using the least power overall.
- The A1 uses slightly more power than the A1 Mini, but significantly less than the P1S.
- The P1S has the highest average power draw, which means higher electricity costs over time.
Why Is the A1’s Max Power Draw Higher Than the P1S?
One unexpected detail is that the A1 has a higher max power draw (1300W) than the P1S (1100W).
Why? The A1 uses a mains-powered heated bed, which allows it to heat up faster. However, this high power draw only happens for a short burst during bed heating. The actual average printing power is much lower than the P1S, meaning the A1 still costs less to run overall.
Electricity Cost Comparison
Using an average electricity rate of $0.30 per kWh (common in Australia), here’s how much each printer costs to run:
| Printer | Weekly Cost (AUD) | Monthly Cost (AUD) | Yearly Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| A1 Mini | $0.72 | $2.88 | $37.44 |
| A1 | $0.86 | $3.42 | $44.46 |
| P1S | $1.67 | $6.66 | $86.58 |
Key Findings:
- Running an A1 Mini for a full year costs less than $40—making it the most energy-efficient choice.
- The A1 costs slightly more than the A1 Mini but is still much cheaper than the P1S.
- The P1S costs more than double to run compared to the A1 Mini—and that cost stacks up fast if you have multiple printers.
Why Power Efficiency Matters for Small Businesses
If you’re only running one printer, the difference in electricity costs might not seem like a big deal. But if you’re scaling up and running multiple printers, these costs add up quickly.
Example:
- Running 3x A1 Minis for a year = ~$112
- Running 3x P1S printers for a year = ~$260
That’s a difference of over $148 per year—just in electricity costs.
For small business owners, reducing ongoing costs like electricity means higher profits.
Final Verdict on Power Consumption & Running Costs
- Most energy-efficient: A1 Mini (Cheapest to run long-term).
- Best balance of power & cost: A1 (Low running costs, larger build volume).
- Most expensive to run: P1S (Highest power draw, over double the cost of A1 Mini).
Key Takeaway: If you want to save on electricity bills, the A1 Mini or A1 is the better choice. The P1S costs significantly more to run over time, which isn’t ideal for small business owners or anyone running multiple printers.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
"Power consumption figures are based on manufacturer data and estimated average usage. Actual energy usage may vary depending on print settings, ambient temperature, and other factors. Electricity cost calculations are based on an assumed rate of $0.30 per kWh (Australian average). Please check with your local utility provider for exact rates applicable to your area."
Noise Levels: Which Printer is the Quietest?
If you’re running a 3D printer in your home, kitchen, or workspace, noise levels can make a big difference. No one wants a machine that sounds like a jet engine running for hours on end—especially if you’re printing overnight or in a shared space.
So how do the A1 Mini, A1, and P1S compare when it comes to noise levels?
Noise Level Comparison: A1 Mini vs. A1 vs. P1S
| Printer | Noise Level (dB) | Noise Source |
|---|---|---|
| A1 Mini | ~45-50 dB | Fans & stepper motors |
| A1 | ~45-52 dB | Slightly larger motors, fans |
| P1S | ~55-60 dB | Fans, belt-driven motion system, enclosure airflow |
Key Differences in Noise Levels:
- The A1 Mini is the quietest, making it ideal for home bakers and small spaces.
- The A1 is slightly louder than the Mini but still much quieter than the P1S.
- The P1S is the loudest due to its aggressive cooling system and enclosure fans.
Why Is the P1S Louder?
The P1S produces more noise for a few reasons:
- More aggressive cooling system – The P1S has additional fans to cool the enclosed chamber, which increases noise levels.
- Belt-driven motion system – Unlike the A1 series, which uses linear rails, the P1S has belts that can create additional vibration and noise.
- Ventilation fans inside the enclosure – The enclosed design requires extra airflow to prevent heat buildup, making it noisier than an open-frame printer like the A1 or A1 Mini.
Key Takeaway: If you’re printing in a shared space, the A1 Mini or A1 will be much quieter than the P1S.
How Loud Are These Printers Compared to Everyday Sounds?
To put the noise levels into perspective, here’s how they compare to everyday sounds:
| Noise Level (dB) | Example Sound | Which Printer is Similar? |
|---|---|---|
| 40 dB | Quiet library, soft conversation | A1 Mini (at idle) |
| 45-50 dB | Light rainfall, office background noise | A1 Mini & A1 |
| 55-60 dB | Refrigerator running, normal conversation | P1S during printing |
| 60+ dB | Vacuum cleaner, noisy office | P1S with all fans running |
If you’re used to the noise of an office environment or a running fridge, the P1S will sound similar while printing. The A1 Mini and A1, on the other hand, are much quieter, making them less intrusive in a home workspace.
Can You Reduce the Noise?
If you already own a P1S or are considering one but worry about the noise, here are a few ways to reduce sound levels:
- Place it on a vibration-dampening mat – Reduces noise from vibrations and movement.
- Lower print speeds slightly – Slower movements reduce motor noise (at the cost of longer print times).
- Keep it in a separate room – If possible, move the printer to an area where noise won’t be a problem.
However, if low noise is a priority, the A1 series is the better choice right out of the box.
Final Verdict on Noise Levels
- Quietest printer: A1 Mini (Great for home use, minimal noise).
- Good balance of power & low noise: A1 (Slightly louder than Mini, but still quiet).
- Loudest printer: P1S (Cooling system, fans, and belt-driven motion create noticeable noise).
Key Takeaway: If you print in a quiet space or work from home, the A1 Mini or A1 will be much less disruptive than the P1S. The P1S can be quite loud, especially during longer prints, so if noise is a concern, it may not be the best choice.
Which Printer Should You Buy?
Now that we’ve compared the A1 Mini, A1, and P1S in terms of price, build volume, print quality, maintenance, power consumption, and noise levels, it’s time to answer the big question:
Which Bambu Lab printer is the best choice for printing cookie cutters?
Breaking It Down: Which Printer is Best for You?
| Category | A1 Mini | A1 | P1S |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Price-to-Value | Yes | Yes (best overall) | No (overpriced) |
| Best for Small Spaces | Yes (compact size) | Larger footprint | Bulky, enclosed |
| Best Print Quality | Great for embossers | Same as Mini | More stringing issues |
| Easiest to Maintain | No belt tensioning | No belt tensioning | Belts need adjustments |
| Easiest Nozzle Swaps | Quick clips | Quick clips | Requires hotend disassembly |
| Lowest Running Cost | Cheapest electricity cost | Still affordable | Most expensive to run |
| Quietest Printer | Yes (lowest noise) | Slightly louder | Loudest (fans, enclosure) |
Summary of Recommendations:
- Best overall value: A1 – Best balance of price, size, and performance.
- Best for small spaces: A1 Mini – Compact and budget-friendly.
- Not worth the cost: P1S – No real benefits for cookie cutter printing.
When Should You Choose the A1 Mini?
The A1 Mini is ideal if you:
- Want the most affordable printer that still delivers great results.
- Don’t need a large build volume and are okay printing smaller designs or in batches.
- Want a quiet, low-maintenance machine that’s easy to use at home.
When not to choose the A1 Mini: If you need to print large cookie cutters in one piece, the A1 is a better option.
When Should You Choose the A1?
The A1 is the best overall choice if you:
- Want the best value for money – The lowest cost per cm³ of build space.
- Need a larger print area to handle bigger cookie cutters or batch printing.
- Want a printer that’s low-maintenance, efficient, and easy to use.
When not to choose the A1: If you only need a small printer and want to save money, the A1 Mini is a better fit.
When Should You Choose the P1S?
For cookie cutter printing, the P1S isn’t worth it.
The P1S is only necessary if you need an enclosed printer for high-temp materials like ABS. Since cookie cutters are almost always printed in PLA or PETG, the enclosure is unnecessary.
Why the P1S isn’t worth it for cookie cutters:
- Costs nearly double the A1 for the same build volume.
- Requires belt tensioning and manual hotend disassembly for nozzle swaps.
- Consumes more power, making it more expensive to run long-term.
- Loudest printer of the three, which can be disruptive in small spaces.
When should you consider the P1S? If you specifically need an enclosed printer for high-temp materials (ABS, ASA, Polycarbonate) or need an enclosure for safety reasons (e.g., young kids or pets around).
Final Verdict: A1 Mini vs. A1 vs. P1S
If you’re printing cookie cutters, embossers, and layered stamps, both the A1 Mini and A1 outperform the P1S in almost every way that matters.
- Best overall: A1 – More print space, lower running costs, and easy maintenance.
- Best for tight budgets or small workspaces: A1 Mini – Still excellent quality, just smaller.
- Worst choice for cookie cutters: P1S – Overpriced, louder, and unnecessary features.
Final Thoughts
This guide should give you everything you need to make an informed decision about which Bambu Lab printer is best for cookie cutters. If you’re serious about printing for a small business or personal use, the A1 series is the best option.
What do you think? Have you used any of these printers for cookie cutters? Let me know in the comments.
Thinking of buying an A1 Mini or A1? Here’s where you can grab one: