The original post: /r/3dprinting by /u/pekkzi on 2024-12-23 13:30:28.
I got my first 3D printer, the Sidewinder X1, during the 2020 lockdown. It was a fun hobby, and I upgraded many parts, for example, swapping out the hotend, adding a 3d touch, switching to a PEI bed, and installing Klipper, etc. I love tinkering, but at times, it felt like I was spending more time tuning than actually printing anything functional.
Fast forward to now: the Sidewinder has been sitting unused since 2022 because of a weird issue I never troubleshot. Fixing it would cost some money, and I’m debating whether it’s worth putting the effort into modding and upgrading the X1 or just starting fresh with a new printer.
Recently, I got interested in the hobby again and found some printers that look interesting—the Bambulab A1 Mini for €200 and the A1 for €350. From what I’ve read, these printers seem all-around better than the X1, even with upgrades.
So, what do you think? Should I invest in fixing the Sidewinder or go for one of the Bambulab options? Thank you all in advance!