Introduction
The Creality K1C is a cool new 3D printer for around $560. It’s really fast, makes accurate prints and can handle a bunch of different materials. I’ve been using 3D printers for a while now and this one is even better than I expected. It looks nice & has some really neat features.
This review will talk about what the Creality K1C 3D printer can do, how well it performs & what it’s like to use. I’ll share my thoughts and experiences with the printer, so both people who have used 3D printers a lot before and people who are new to 3D printing can learn about it.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that catches the eye when unboxing the Creality K1C is its striking and well-engineered design. The printer’s frame is constructed using larger, die-cast parts, resulting in a cohesive and sturdy appearance that exudes a sense of quality & dependability.
One of the standout features of the K1C’s design is its transparent acrylic sides & lid, which not only contribute to the printer’s sleek aesthetic but also allow users to observe the printing process in real-time. This transparency is further enhanced by the inclusion of a glass door, providing an unobstructed view of the entire build volume.
Printer Dimensions and Weight Chart
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 355 x 355 x 482 mm |
| Package Dimensions | 441 x 441 x 578 mm |
| Net Weight | 12.4 kg |
| Gross Weight | 16 kg |
Printing Performance
The Creality K1C is a true powerhouse when it comes to printing performance. Boasting a maximum printing speed of 600mm/s & an acceleration of up to 20,000mm/s², this machine is capable of producing high-quality prints at a pace that leaves its competitors in the dust.
Speed and Precision
The K1C’s impressive speed is complemented by its unwavering precision, with a layer height ranging from 0.1mm to 0.35mm. This combination of speed and accuracy ensures that users can create intricate and detailed models with ease, catering to a wide range of applications, from rapid prototyping to the production of end-use parts.
Filament Compatibility
One of the standout features of the Creality K1C is its impressive filament compatibility. It supports a wide range of materials, including PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PC, and even carbon fiber-filled filaments (PLA-CF, PA-CF, PET-CF). Owing to its adaptability, customers can investigate a wide array of printing opportunities, encompassing robust industrial components & long-lasting consumer items.
Clog-free Printing
The K1C’s direct drive extruder is engineered to provide exceptional reliability and clog-free operation. Featuring a bolster spring and a ball plunger, the extruder grips the filament tightly, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted flow. This design, combined with the printer’s tri-metal “Unicorn” nozzle, which incorporates a titanium alloy heatbreak, effectively blocks heat creep and minimizes the risk of clogs.
Cooling System
The Creality K1C’s cooling system is a crucial component in its quest for print quality perfection. The printer’s trio of cooling fans, comprising a hotend fan, a part cooling fan, and an auxiliary fan, work in harmony to ensure optimal temperature control and part cooling throughout the printing process.
The hotend fan mitigates heat creep, preventing premature filament melting & maintaining a consistent extrusion. The part cooling fan, with its strategically designed air duct, quickly hardens the freshly extruded layers, catalyzing layer bonding and refining the overall surface texture.
The addition of the auxiliary fan, situated on the chamber’s side, further enhances the cooling capabilities, minimizing issues such as stringing and warping, particularly on bridges & overhangs.
Auto-Calibration and Leveling
One of the standout features of the Creality K1C is its advanced auto-calibration and leveling system. Gone are the days of tedious manual adjustments and tedious leveling tests with paper. With a simple tap, the K1C can handle the entire calibration process, including auto Z-offset, auto leveling, and auto input shaping test, all while the user can sit back and let the printer do the work.
This user-friendly approach not only saves time but also ensures that the printer is always operating at its optimal level, reducing the likelihood of print failures & delivering consistent, high-quality results.
Electrical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Rated Voltage | 100-120V~, 200-240V~, 50/60Hz |
| Rated Power | 350 W |
User Experience and Ease of Use
The Creality K1C shines not only in its technical prowess but also in its user-friendliness and overall ease of use. From the initial unboxing and setup to the day-to-day operations, the K1C is designed to provide a seamless and intuitive experience for users of all skill levels.
Out-of-the-Box Experience
Upon unboxing the K1C, users are greeted with a well-assembled and thoroughly tested printer, ready to plug and play. The boot-up process is remarkably similar to that of a new smartphone, with the printer guiding users through the initial setup in a matter of minutes.
Intuitive Interface and Connectivity
The K1C’s 4.3-inch color touch screen provides a user-friendly interface, allowing for easy navigation and control of the printer’s various functions. The inclusion of USB & WiFi connectivity further enhances the printer’s versatility, enabling users to transfer files & monitor the printing process remotely.
Display and Connectivity Chart
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Display Screen | 4.3″ color touch screen |
| AI Camera | Yes |
| Power Loss Recovery | Yes |
| Filament Runout Sensor | Yes |
AI Camera and Advanced Features
One of the standout features of the Creality K1C is its built-in AI camera, which serves as a vigilant eye, monitoring the printing process and actively alerting users to any potential issues. This camera can also be used for time-lapse filming and remote monitoring, adding an extra layer of convenience & peace of mind for users.
Additionally, the K1C boasts a range of advanced features, such as spaghetti detection, foreign object detection & power loss recovery, ensuring that users can tackle even the most complex printing projects with confidence.
Noise and Odor Control
The Creality K1C stands out in its ability to provide a pleasant and distraction-free printing environment. With a noise level of up to 45dB in silent mode, the printer operates at a remarkably quiet level, allowing users to work or relax in close proximity without the constant hum of a traditional 3D printer.
Furthermore, the K1C employs an active carbon filter to purify any compounds or particles that may arise from the printing process, ensuring a clean & healthy working environment.
Software and Ecosystem
The Creality K1C’s exceptional performance is complemented by its robust software ecosystem, which includes the Creality OS, Creality Print & the Creality Cloud platform.
Supported Filaments and File Formats Charts
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Supported Filaments | ABS, PLA, PETG, PET, TPU, PA, ABS, ASA, PC, PLA-CF, PA-CF, PET-CF |
| Printable File Format | G-Code |
| Slicing Software | Creality Print, Cura 5.0 and later version |
| File Formats for Slicing | STL, OBJ, 3MF |
| UI Languages | English, Spanish, German, French, Russian, Portuguese, Italian, Turkish, Japanese, Chinese |
Creality OS and Klipper Integration
The K1C utilizes the open-source Creality OS, which is based on the highly acclaimed Klipper firmware. With this update, you get cool new features like smoother printing & faster speeds, and you can still adjust things on your printer to make your creations even better.
Creality Print Slicer
Creality Print isn’t just a regular 3D printer slicer program. It’s got special features to make your prints look amazing, like figuring out cooling on its own & using just the right amount of support material. This means you’ll get top-notch prints that are easy to clean up afterwards.
Creality Cloud Platform
The Creality Cloud platform is an engaging and comprehensive 3D printing ecosystem that complements the K1C. This platform provides users with access to a diverse library of free 3D models, cloud storage, and efficient file management, streamlining the overall printing workflow.
Optional Accessories and Upgrades
The Creality K1C’s versatility is further enhanced by the availability of a range of optional accessories and upgrades, allowing users to tailor the printer to their specific needs and preferences.
Creality Hyper Filaments
Creality offers a selection of high-quality Hyper Filaments, including PLA, PETG & carbon fiber-filled options. These filaments are designed to work seamlessly with the K1C, ensuring consistent performance & reliable print quality
Creality Space π Filament Dryer
If you use 3D printer filament that easily absorbs moisture, a Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer can be a big help. This machine easily dries out different kinds of filament with just one button press, keeping your filament in top condition for printing.
Coarsely Textured PEI Plate
For those seeking enhanced adhesion when printing with engineering filaments, such as PLA-CF, the coarsely textured PEI build plate is an excellent upgrade option.
Open-source Customization
The Creality K1C’s hardware is open-source, allowing users to explore DIY modifications and customizations to further enhance the printer’s capabilities.
Customer Feedback and Experiences
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Creality K1C’s performance and user experience, I delved into various customer reviews & feedback from owners of the printer.
Positive Experiences
Many customers have praised the Creality K1C for its exceptional print quality, speed, and reliability. One customer, Taylor Jones, described the printer as a “masterpiece of precision and reliability,” highlighting its user-friendly interface, consistent performance & impressive noise levels.
Another satisfied customer, Tom Yench, remarked on the K1C’s blazing-fast printing speeds, noting that it is “crazy fast” compared to his previous Ender 3 V2 printer.
Addressing Concerns
While the majority of customer reviews were overwhelmingly positive, there were a few isolated instances of issues, such as a customer receiving a used or pre-owned printer. In response to this, the Creality store acknowledged the problem and expressed a commitment to promptly resolving the situation & ensuring customer satisfaction.
In another case, a customer experienced intermittent layer adhesion problems, which the Creality support team addressed by offering troubleshooting guidance and a willingness to work with the customer to identify and rectify the issue.
Pros and Cons of the Creality K1C 3D Printer
Pros:
- Exceptional Printing Speed: The Creality K1C boasts an impressive maximum printing speed of 600mm/s, allowing users to produce parts and prototypes at a remarkable pace.
- High Precision and Accuracy: With a layer height range of 0.1mm to 0.35mm, the K1C delivers exceptional print quality, ensuring intricate & detailed models.
- Diverse Filament Compatibility: The printer supports a wide variety of filaments, including PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PC, and even carbon fiber-filled materials, catering to a diverse range of applications.
- Clog-free Performance: The K1C’s direct drive extruder and tri-metal “Unicorn” nozzle effectively prevent clogging, ensuring a reliable and consistent printing experience.
- Advanced Cooling System: The printer’s trio of cooling fans, including the hotend fan, part cooling fan, and auxiliary fan, work in harmony to ensure optimal temperature control and part cooling.
- Automated Calibration and Leveling: The K1C’s one-tap auto-calibration and leveling system eliminate the need for tedious manual adjustments, providing a user-friendly experience.
- Sleek and Sturdy Design: The printer’s die-cast frame and transparent acrylic sides and lid give it a visually appealing and durable appearance.
- Quiet Operation: With a noise level of up to 45dB in silent mode, the K1C operates at a remarkably low volume, providing a distraction-free printing environment.
- Comprehensive Software Ecosystem: The Creality OS, Creality Print slicer & Creality Cloud platform offer a robust and versatile software suite to enhance the user experience.
- Open-source Customization: The K1C’s open-source hardware allows users to explore and implement DIY modifications and upgrades to further enhance its capabilities.
Cons:
- Isolated Incidents of Quality Control Issues: While rare, there have been a few reports of customers receiving used or pre-owned printers, highlighting the importance of thorough inspection upon delivery.
- Potential Troubleshooting Challenges: In some cases, users have experienced intermittent layer adhesion problems, which may require more extensive troubleshooting and support from the manufacturer.
- Fragility of Glass Door: The glass door looks nice, but some people are worried it might break easily. There have even been reports of doors arriving already broken.
Printing Specifications Chart
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Printing Technology | FDM |
| Leveling Mode | Hands-free auto leveling |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
| Printing Speed | ≤ 600 mm/s |
| Acceleration | ≤ 20,000 mm/s² |
| Printing Accuracy | 100 ± 0.1 mm |
| Layer Height | 0.1 – 0.35 mm |
| Extruder | Clog-free direct drive extruder |
| Nozzle Temperature | ≤ 300°C |
| Heatbed Temperature | ≤ 100°C |
| Price | $559.00 |
Conclusion
The Creality K1C 3D Printer is a remarkable testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and user satisfaction. With its unparalleled speed, precision & versatility, this printer stands out as a must have addition to any 3D printing enthusiast’s arsenal.
The K1C is a great 3D printer, no matter if you are new to it or a pro. It looks sharp and is well-built, with easy-to-use controls and features you won’t find on just any printer. It can handle lots of different materials & won’t jam up easily, plus it keeps things cool to make sure your prints come out right.
While there have been a few isolated incidents reported by customers, the Creality team has demonstrated a willingness to address these concerns promptly & effectively, showcasing their dedication to customer satisfaction.
The Creality K1C is a winning 3D printer – fast, accurate, and easy to use. It’s great for beginners & experts alike. You’ll get reliable prints every time, no matter what you’re making. This K1C will take your 3D printing projects to the next level!
My opinion: Is the Creality K1C 3D Printer Worth Your Purchase?
I’ve looked closely at the Creality K1C, and it’s a great pick for beginners or people who already know their way around 3D printing.
This K1C printer is super fast & makes really accurate prints, which sets it apart from others. It’s got a fancy cooling system to prevent jams and self-levels the printing bed, so you get good results every time with less messing around.
While there have been a few isolated incidents of quality control issues and potential fragility concerns with the glass door, the Creality team has demonstrated a willingness to address these problems promptly and effectively. Many customerlove the K1C, and for good reason! It’s a powerful 3D printer that makes your projects turn out great, If you’re looking for a top notch printer, this is a good choice.
Furthermore, the comprehensive software ecosystem, including the Creality OS and Creality Print slicer, as well as the open-source customization possibilities, provide users with a well-rounded & enriching experience.
The Creality K1C is an impressive 3D printer – it’s fast, accurate, and easy to use. It can handle many different materials & works well for lots of projects. If you are looking for a reliable 3D Printer that can do a lot, the K1C is definitely worth checking out!
:FAQs:
What is the Creality K1C?
The Creality K1C is a high-performance 3D printer known for its exceptional speed, precision & diverse filament compatibility. It features advanced cooling, automated calibration & a sleek, transparent design.
Is the Creality 3D Printer Good?
Creality is a respected brand that offers quality 3D printers with a good balance of features, performance & affordability.
What Does K1C Stand For?
The “K1C” in the Creality K1C’s name is a model designation, not an acronym. The “K1” likely refers to the printer’s CoreXY kinematics, while the “C” may indicate a unique feature.
Is Creality a Good Brand?
Creality is generally considered a reliable brand in the 3D printing industry, known for their innovative products & affordable solutions.
Is Creality Made in China?
Yes, Creality’s 3D printers, including the K1C, are manufactured in China. There were some issues with how well the machines were made before, but the company fixed those problems.
Summary
The Creality K1C 3D printer is a remarkable machine that offers exceptional speed, precision & versatility. With a maximum printing speed of 600mm/s, a layer height range of 0.1mm to 0.35mm, and support for a wide range of filaments, the K1C delivers high-quality prints across a diverse range of applications.
The printer’s advanced features, such as the automated calibration and leveling system, clog-free extruder & comprehensive cooling system, contribute to its reliable and consistent performance. The Creality OS, Creality Print slicer & Creality Cloud platform provide a robust software ecosystem, further enhancing the user experience.
While there have been a few isolated incidents of quality control issues, the Creality team has demonstrated a willingness to address these concerns promptly. Overall, the Creality K1C 3D printer is a solid investment for both novice & experienced 3D printing enthusiasts seeking a high-performance & user-friendly solution.
