Prusa i3 MK4 review: Taking FDM desktop printing to new heights
Competition in the desktop FDM (fused deposition modeling) 3D printing world is fierce, but one name consistently comes out on top: Prusa Research. Their printers are known for their open source heritage, superior print quality, and relentless innovation. The latest evolution of its flagship model, the Prusa i3 MK4 arrives not just as an iteration but as a major leap forward, incorporating features once reserved for high-end or industrial machines. As a leader in rapid prototyping solutions, including advanced metal additive manufacturing (SLM), we huge light Keep an eye out for advancements like MK4. High-quality desktop printing is often the gateway to precision manufacturing, and the MK4 sets an impressive benchmark. Let us analyze the charm of MK4.
At the Helm: What’s unique about the MK4?
The Prusa is based on the venerable MK3S+ and not just tweaked, but tweaked. They redesigned it. MK4 introduces groundbreaking features designed for speed, reliability, ease of use and unlocking new capabilities:
- Nextruder MK4 and Pressure Advance: At its core is the redesigned Nextruder extruder/hot end assembly. It has a quick-change nozzle system with an integrated load cell, allowing for early pressure calibration. This firmware-driven technology dynamically adjusts filament flow during acceleration and deceleration, significantly improving print quality at higher speeds and minimizing artifacts such as corner bumps. The nozzle truly becomes "Smart."
- Enter the plastic surgery revolution: Connecting pressure forward is input shaping. This advanced algorithm actively compensates for vibrations caused by rapid movement of the printer. The result? The surface is smoother, the corners are sharper, and the Higher printing speed (Under the same quality, the speed is 2-5 times faster than MK3S+) without sacrificing details. Setup involves a quick calibration using an accelerometer.
- Faster 32-bit architecture and enhanced motion control: Powered by a new 32-bit motherboard and Trinamic 2130 stepper drivers (running in SpreadCycle mode), the MK4 can easily handle complex calculations such as input shaping. Features include:
- Sensorless homing (load cell): Accurately detect bed and nozzle heights at lightning speed.
- Collision detection and power panics: Prevents prints from layer shift when subjected to physical impact and ensures reliable recovery after power outages.
- Automatic first layer calibration: Getting the critical first layer right is largely automated. Combined with the inductive bed leveling sensors and the rigidity of the frame, achieving the perfect squeeze is easier and more consistent than ever.
- Convenience and Modularity:
- Faster build plate swapping: Strong magnetic bed system with simpler front latch.
- UV resin tank compatibility: An optional upgraded Einsy plate unlocks compatibility with the Prusa SL1S resin tank system on the MK4 frame for dual-material functionality.
- Available assembly kits: Prusa continues the tradition of offering fully assembled printers or detailed kits.
Dive Deeper: Performance Benchmarks
- speed: This is the headline news. Printing time has been significantly reduced. Complex models that used to take hours to complete can now be completed in less time thanks to input shaper profiles enabled in PrusaSlicer. You can achieve MK3S+ quality prints many times faster, or go even further with functional prototypes where absolute surface perfection is secondary. Real-world testing has consistently shown that at moderate acceleration settings, significant time savings can be achieved without significant quality degradation.
- quality: Pressure advancement eliminates the age-old problem of lobes and seams. Input shaping removes ghosting/ringing artifacts. This combination produces exceptionally smooth surfaces and crisp details, even when printing at high speeds. Drape and bridging performance remain solid. The overall consistency of the print is excellent.
- Reliability and noise: MK4 continues Prusa’s reputation "working normally" machine. Superior filament path design minimizes clogging. Collision detection gives you peace of mind. While not silent due to the enhanced stepper drivers and cooling fan, the noise level is reasonable for desktop operation. Sturdy frame minimizes resonance.
- Availability: Setup is significantly simplified compared to its predecessor. Automatic calibration routine simplifies getting started. PrusaSlicer integration is seamless, making it easy to generate optimized input shaper G-code. The LCD interface remains clear and fully functional.
Where does it shine? sweet spot
- Archetypal Nirvana: The increased speed makes it ideal for rapid iteration cycles of functional prototypes in engineering and product design. Faster iteration means faster validation.
- Features: The combination of speed and powerful printing (especially Prusament PETG) makes it perfect for stands, mounts, organizers, tools and even gear.
- High detail model: Once in use, print quality is comparable to costlier printers, making it suitable for miniatures, intricate artwork, and role-play props that require fine detail.
Considerations and Tradeoffs
- cost: The price of the MK4 is high, especially the fully assembled version. This is an investment.
- Complexity (suite): The MK3S+ kit is known for requiring patience. The MK4 kit adds new components (Nextruder, accelerometer) and can present significant assembly challenges.
- PLA requires cooling: While performing well on PETG and ABS, perfectly printing PLA at top speeds requires excellent cooling, especially for small features/bridges. For the true PLA speed demons, looking into upgraded fan ducts may be necessary.
- Physical dimensions: The build volume (25 x 21 x 22 cm) is large, but matches the MK3S+. Competitors sometimes offer larger envelopes.
- Proprietary components: The Nextruder’s quick-swap nozzles and load cells represent a step toward a proprietary ecosystem compared to the V6 hotend standard used previously.
PrusaSlicer: the perfect companion
PrusaSlicer remains an integral part of the MK4 experience. Its latest version seamlessly integrates input shapers and pressure advance profiles. Generating optimized, ultra-fast G-code can now be selected via a simple drop-down menu. The MK4 firmly maintains and enhances the slicer’s reputation for robustness, configurability and high-quality output.
Compared to competitors
The main competitors of the MK4 include:
- Bambu Lab P1S: Delivers incredible speed out of the box with AMS multi-material support and core XY architecture, often at a lower price than an assembled MK4. However, Prusa responds with an excellent record of reliability, greater community support, and true open source transparency.
- Ultimaker S3: More industrial-focused FDM machines, with dual extrusion, superior reliability and closed ecosystem ease of use, but significantly more expensive and slower.
- Creative K1: Delivers core XY speed and performance at an affordable price, but sacrifices some build quality, reliability history and advanced firmware sophistication.
Edge of MK4: If ultimate print quality, proven long-term reliability, open-source philosophy, modular upgrade potential (like resin tanks), and backing from a large community/support structure are crucial, then the MK4 justifies its premium price.
Conclusion: Setting the gold standard (again)
The Prusa i3 MK4 is not only the best iteration of the iconic i3 platform; It is arguably the most complex, capable, and thorough it works Filament printers are now available at their price points. By successfully implementing input shaping and stress boosting at the desktop level, Prusa Research has fundamentally changed performance expectations. while achieving significant speed improvements improve The print quality is revolutionary. Considering Nextruder’s smart features, enhanced stiffness, automatic calibration, seamless software integration, and Prusa’s proven commitment to support and iterative improvements, the MK4 makes a strong case for the new FDM benchmark.
Where does GreatLight fit in?
While the MK4 excels at desktop prototypes and plastic end-use parts, product development often moves quickly to materials such as aluminum, titanium or stainless steel that require strength and precision. Industrial Metal Additive Manufacturing. huge light Specializing in rapid prototyping and production Selective Laser Melting (SLM)crafting complex, demanding metal parts that traditional machining or FDM cannot provide. Plus our comprehensive suite of Post-processing and finishing services – From heat treatment and CNC machining to surface finishing – we provide a seamless bridge from Prusa-driven prototypes to certified high-strength metal parts for demanding applications. need Custom materials Or precision parts produced quickly? This is our core competitiveness.
judgment: The Prusa i3 MK4 sets the standard for awesomeness. If your budget allows and you prioritize cutting-edge desktop FDM performance coupled with outstanding reliability and open source flexibility, it’s very hard to beat. This is a printer built for creators looking for quality and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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Is Prusa i3 MK4 much faster than MK3S+?
Absolutely! Due to input shaping implemented in firmware and PrusaSlicer, print times are typically 2 to 5 times faster than MK3S+ prints of the same quality level. Further speed improvements can lead to even greater savings.
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Does input shaping really work? Will it affect the quality?
It works very well. Input shaping actively counteracts machine vibrations. The effect is smoother surfaces, sharper corners, and virtual elimination of ghosting/ringing artifacts. Crucially, it can significantly increase speed No Introduce these issues. Quality is maintained at high speeds not possible with previous models.
- Is it worth upgrading from MK3S+?
This largely depends on your printing style and budget. MK4 provides real, substantial benefits:
- Major speed improvements (input shaping).
- Significant improvement in quality at corners/joints (pressure advance).
- Enhanced convenience (faster automatic calibration, easier bed changes).
- New features (accelerometer,
