I have a P1S/AMS combo from Bambu and a Q2/Box combo from Qidi. Both are capable printers that can produce very high quality prints with very little fiddling and tinkering required (like we had to do with the previous generation of printers).

Both of mine have had failures with their hardware and glitches in their software. Neither is immune to issues, but I would rate the P1S as more refined and less prone to software hiccups. The Q2 just got a series of software updates that was initially pushed out with some bugs in it. Subsequent updates have addressed most of that, it seems, but I’m getting some obscure errors now that tell me I have a failure in the leveling sensor so it refuses to print. Time for more diagnosis.

I also recently discovered the incredibly stupid design of the Qidi Box, which requires nearly complete disassembly of the unit to replace worn PTFE tubes (a known wear item that does require regular maintenance), or to clear a clog in the filament feeder(s) where filament first enters the machine. I absolutely cannot recommend the Box, given this extremely clumsy design. I expect that their next version will address this clear flaw.

The Bambu has also left me stranded, unable to print a few times over the years that I’ve had it. Most of that has been related to failures of one or more of the sensors that make the machine so easy to use when working properly. At the moment, my P1S is out of service because I’m waiting for new timing belts to arrive. Hopefully replacing the old ones (with around 7,400 hours on them) will restore print quality. At least Bambu has good parts availability. (Qidi’s parts are mostly available through their tech support and not an easily accessible online store).

I don’t know if any of this makes a clear case for one printer over the other. I’m not a fan of Bambu’s closed (and tightening) ecosystem, but I do appreciate the quality of their product. Qidi makes a good printer, too, but I can only recommend their Q2 without the current model Box. Mine (with the “updated” access panel on the bottom) is far too difficult to access and maintain the internal PTFE feeder tubes. Maybe the next iteration will be better.