How the Bambu Lab P2S and P2S Combo differ from the popular P1S

Author: Carsten Hemmerling
Source: uA BambuLab

With the P1S, Bambu Lab set a price-performance benchmark that has had a lasting impact on desktop 3D printing. Fast, reliable, robust – a perfect all-rounder for makers, businesses, and educational institutions.

But with the P2S and the P2S Combo, Bambu Lab enters the next stage of evolution. Higher precision, more automation, a redesigned optics, and crucial improvements in the thermal system make the new series a logical next step.

In the following, we compare the models in a practical way – not as a data sheet, but from the perspective of real-world applications.

1. Print quality & speed: Precision on a new level

The P1S already delivers excellent results, but the P2S noticeably improves upon them:

• Improved vibration compensation (Active Vibration Compensation 2.0)
• Optimized motion system for finer details
• More stable chassis to minimize resonances

Especially with complex geometries, fine layer heights and rapidly changing directions, the P2S shows a visibly smoother surface quality.
The printing speed is nominally similar, but thanks to its better dynamics, the P2S produces the same quality in less time .

2. Thermal system: Enclosed installation space + improved stability

The P1S already had an enclosed build chamber, thus providing good conditions for ABS, ASA and technical filaments.

The P2S goes a step further here:

• New temperature management for more stable installation chamber temperatures
• Optimized airflow through improved fan architecture
• Less variation in long prints

This is particularly beneficial for large-format components – warping and layer shifts occur less frequently.

3. AI-powered features and automation

The P2S is not only faster or more stable – it is also smarter:

• New AI pressure monitoring with a stronger model recognition algorithm
• Improved camera quality for live monitoring
• Automated calibration processes are even more precise and reliable.

The P1S already offers extensive automation, but the P2S feels closer to a "plug-and-forget printer" – less intervention, more trust.

4. The P2S Combo: Multi-material for professionals

While the P1S already shines as a multi-material printer in combination with the AMS, the P2S Combo brings additional advantages:

• More finely tuned AMS integration
• Improved material feeding, especially for flexible filaments
• Optimized automation of material changeover

Especially in professional environments – prototyping, small series production, functional components – the combo delivers more reliable multi-material performance.

5. Housing, appearance & feel: Fine-tuning for the P-series

The P2S features a revised design:

• clearer lines
• improved lighting
• higher quality material appearance

In contrast, the P1S appears more functional – not a disadvantage, but a visibly different focus.

6. Which printer is right for whom?

P1S – The price-performance champion

Ideal for makers, hobbyists and beginners who want maximum performance at the best possible price.

P2S – The new mid-range model with professional ambitions

Perfect for anyone who:

• The highest level of detail is required
• printing long, demanding materials
• desire more modern AI surveillance

P2S Combo – The solution for multi-material professionals

For studios, companies, engineering offices – anywhere where color or functional material combinations are part of everyday life.

Conclusion: Evolution rather than revolution – but a very strong one.

With the P2S and the P2S Combo, Bambu Lab has not presented a radical reinvention, but rather a consistent further development of an already excellent system.

The P1S remains an excellent choice.
The P2S is the upgrade many have been asking for.
And the P2S Combo is a tool for those who don't want to compromise.