BambuLab H2D 3D Printer Review After Two Months of Real-World Use

H2D 3D Printer - 2 Months Later

I've been involved in 3D printing for nearly a decade, which naturally includes years of fixing and troubleshooting various 3D printers. Most of my 3D prints have been practical; my kids and I have a knack for breaking things, and printing replacements or repairs is an everyday affair.

When I decided to purchase the BambuLab H2D from Microcenter, I couldn't find many real-world reviews. Despite this, I wanted to explore the capabilities this 3D printer promised, and after using it almost daily for two months, I’m ready to share my honest review with both new and seasoned 3D printing enthusiasts. This review reflects my perspective as someone who treats 3D printers like any other essential tool in their workshop.

Printer is a Workhorse

General Impressions

Ease of Use

Starting a print with the H2D is exceptionally easy. In comparison, my older printers required me to go through quite a process: opening a laptop, slicing the model, calibrating, ensuring the nozzle was clean, and leveling the bed correctly. I'd then have to watch the first layer closely, like supervising a toddler near a power outlet. This routine was mandatory for each print.

Closely Watching That First Layer

The H2D changes the game with its seamless operation; I can start a print remotely and feel confident that when I check back, it will be a success.

Quiet Operation

While I wouldn't recommend keeping a 3D printer in your main living space, the H2D is remarkably silent. It's quiet enough to print beside without disturbance, even in the middle of the night. My wife doesn't wake up thinking someone’s in the basement, which is a testament to its quiet operation.

Cost Considerations

Acknowledging the cost is inevitable. However, viewed from another angle, the H2D's built-in features save financial outlay on additional upgrades common with other printers like mini PCs, cameras, or custom enclosures.

Material Handling

A key factor in successful 3D printing is keeping filament dry. The H2D's automatic material system, featuring a built-in filament dryer, addresses this need efficiently. This system automatically feeds filament into the printer, eliminating the need for separate drying solutions.

AMS Keeps Filament Dry and Read to Go

Nozzle Adjustments

The tool-free and quick nozzle change functionality is a tremendous advantage. Switching nozzles to adapt print speed or quality is now a breeze. Adjusting the nozzle on some older printers could take 30 minutes, but not with the H2D. Streamlining this process saves valuable time, allowing more focus on design rather than printer adjustments.

Swapping Nozzle Takes Seconds

Reasons for Beginners to Consider the H2D

1. Reliable First Layer Printing Understanding the significance of the first layer is crucial. Many printers that claimed automatic precision failed to deliver; however, the H2D consistently achieves it.

2. User-Friendliness without Slicers Slicers deter beginners due to their complexity. The H2D mitigates this by operating efficiently out of the box without them, although using a slicer remains an option.

3. Effortless with Proprietary Filament Using Bamboo filament maximizes convenience; the printer automatically adjusts settings for optimal results.

Reasons Pros Should Consider the H2D

1. The H2D's enclosure enhances the success rates of exotic material prints, especially in challenging environments like cold basements.

2. While not novel, the H2D offers dual extruders with high-temperature capacity, supporting intricate prints like breakaway supports without needing post-processing.

3. The H2D demands less babysitting, freeing time for more value-driven activities.

   
   

Considerations Before Purchasing

The H2D might not suit everyone.

1. For those only printing PLA, the printer is overkill.

2. In compact spaces or tight budgets, smaller or cheaper alternatives may suffice. However, upgrading a starter printer may end up costing more than investing upfront in the H2D.

Final Thoughts

The BambuLab H2D is designed for those who want a reliable machine that lets them focus on creativity rather than maintenance. It's approaching the convenience of an inkjet printer in its ease of operation. While not perfect, I haven't experienced a failed print yet.

If you have any questions, please post them in the comments! Thanks for reading!