Bambu Lab X1 Carbon vs Othermill Pro

The Bambu Lab X1 Carbon is a high-speed FDM 3D printer that has rapidly gained popularity for combining fast print speeds with extensive automation, including AI-powered first-layer inspection, automatic bed leveling, and flow calibration that removes most manual tuning. Paired with the optional AMS (Automatic Material System), it supports up to 16 colors or materials in a single print with automatic filament switching, enabling multi-color prints without manual intervention. A built-in camera lets users monitor and time-lapse prints remotely via the Bambu Handy app, and the enclosed chassis improves temperature stability for printing more demanding materials like ABS.

The Othermill Pro is a high-precision, portable CNC mill designed to bring professional-grade manufacturing directly to your desktop. Engineered for reliability and ease of use, it allows engineers, designers, and educators to mill complex parts out of a wide variety of materials including circuit boards, machinable wax, plastics, and soft metals. Built with an enclosed, sturdy steel and aluminum frame, the Othermill Pro operates quietly and cleanly compared to industrial machines. Paired with its dedicated software suite, it streamlines the workflow from digital 3D model or PCB design to finished physical part, making rapid in-house iteration accessible without a dedicated machine shop.

• Very fast print speeds
• Extensive automation reduces manual tuning
• Excellent multi-material support with AMS
• Strong build quality and enclosure

• Compact desktop footprint fits easily in offices and classrooms
• Enclosed design improves safety and contains debris
• High precision suitable for complex PCBs and fine details
• User-friendly software lowers the barrier to entry for CNC milling

• More closed ecosystem than fully open-source printers
• AMS is a costly separate purchase
• Slicer software is proprietary

• Limited work envelope restricts the size of milled parts
• Relatively slow processing times for large or hard metal jobs
• Higher upfront cost compared to standard 3D printers