Ultimate Creality Ender-3 S1 Pro Setup Guide: Print Faster, Smarter
Now you have the Creality Ender-3 S1 Pro – a great choice whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker. It’s known for its smart upgrades to earlier models (CR-Touch auto-leveling, dual-gear direct extruder, and dual Z-axis) that balance performance and economy. But even the best printers require precise settings. Ignore a step and you may face setbacks later. Follow this guide carefully to unlock its true potential.
First impressions: Unboxing like a pro
Open the box carefully – avoid damaging components! Arrange everything systematically:
- Main components: Printer frame, pre-assembled gantry, power supply, build plate (PEI coated spring steel), screen module, tool kit.
- Essential accessories: Power cord, USB stick (with test files), screws, hex key, spatula, small filament sample.
- Key checks: Check immediately for obvious transport damage (bent rails, cracked parts). Report problems to the seller promptly.
Pro tip: Keep all packaging – very valuable for warranty claims or future moves. Use labeled containers or magnetic trays to organize screws.
Step-by-step assembly: laying the foundation
The S1 Pro ships partially assembled. Focus on securing critical connections—accuracy prevents future troubles.
- Framework is stable: Place the base rack on a level, solid surface (avoid a wobbly table!). Use the included level tool. Securely attach the upright vertical frame using the bolts provided. Tighten firmly, but avoid overtightening the aluminum threads.
- Z-axis alignment: Install the dual Z-axis lead screws into the stepper motor on the base. Tip:
- Turn each screw by hand to ensure smooth movement up and down.
- Use a machinist’s square to make sure the screws are plumb (basic to prevent binding).
- Gantry accessories: Install the pre-assembled hot end gantry to the vertical frame. Align the rollers on both sides evenly with the V-groove extrusion – they should roll smoothly without any wobble or tightness. Adjust the eccentric nut as needed.
- Screens and electronic devices: Connect the display module. Use cable ties to route the DDR6 cable as reported along the frame – keeping it away from moving parts and heating components. Plug into the designated port on the motherboard.
- Build the board: Fix the magnetic sticker to the heating bed (if no dingdongd was applied beforehand), and then attach the PEI sheet.
Key professional insights: Please carefully check the stepper motor wiring before applying power. Correct wiring sequence (X, Y, Z, E) prevents erratic movement. The labeled connector should match the motherboard.
First power-up and basic calibration
Plug the printer into a grounded outlet. Open it. The touch screen display should light up. It’s time to calibrate!
- Automatic bed leveling (CR-Touch):
- Go to Menu > Leveling > Auto Leveling. CR-Touch detects 16 chess piece positions.
- Actions after leveling: Settings must be saved to E CuttingPROM! choose Store settings. Skipping this will cause the level Seorang data to disappear on a power outage – a common pitfall.
- Z offset adjustment:
- Heated nozzle PLA (~200°C) and bed (~60xmlC) temperature

