3D printing has revolutionized the way we create and design objects, making it possible to turn digital designs into physical products. While 3D printers were once considered a luxury for professionals, advancements in technology have made them more accessible and affordable. One printer that stands out in the budget-friendly category is the Qidi i-Fast.
This compact and feature-rich machine has gained recognition for its balance of affordability and capability. It caters to both hobbyists and professionals looking for a reliable and versatile tool. In this article, we will dive into the performance and potential of the Qidi i-Fast. We will explore its technical specifications, performance in various printing scenarios, ease of use, and user experience. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what this printer can do and whether it fits your individual requirements.
Overview of Qidi i Fast
The Qidi i-Fast is a desktop 3D printer designed by Qidi Technology, a Chinese company founded in 2015. The company’s goal is to provide affordable and high-quality 3D printers to consumers. With the i-Fast, they have certainly delivered on their promise.
The printer has a build volume of 260 x 200 x 200 mm, making it suitable for small to medium-sized prints. It uses Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) technology, which involves melting plastic filament and laying it down layer by layer to create an object. The i-Fast is compatible with both PLA and ABS filaments, giving users the option to choose the material that best suits their needs.
One of the standout features of the Qidi i-Fast is its dual extruder system, allowing for multi-color and multi-material printing. This feature is often found in higher-end printers, making the i-Fast unique in its price range. Additionally, the printer comes equipped with a heated bed, automatic bed leveling, and a touch screen display for easy navigation.
Benefits of using Qidi i Fast
Cost-effective
One of the main advantages of the Qidi i-Fast is its affordability. With a price point of under $500, it offers excellent value for money compared to other printers in its category. The printer’s cost-effectiveness makes it an attractive option for beginners or those on a budget who want to try out 3D printing without making a significant investment.
Dual extruder system
As mentioned earlier, the i-Fast’s dual extruder system allows for multi-color and multi-material printing. This feature can be a game-changer for those looking to add more creativity and complexity to their prints. Whether you want to create colorful models or experiment with different materials, the i-Fast gives you the flexibility to do so.
Convenient setup
The Qidi i-Fast comes mostly assembled, with only a few parts that need to be attached before it is ready to use. The included tool kit and instructions make it easy to set up, even for those who are new to 3D printing. Additionally, the printer’s compact size makes it suitable for small spaces, making it an ideal choice for home use.
User-friendly interface
The touch screen display on the i-Fast adds to its user-friendly design. It provides a straightforward and intuitive interface, allowing users to navigate through menus and select options easily. The display also shows real-time information, such as the print progress and temperature settings, making it convenient to monitor the printing process.
High-quality prints
Despite its low price, the Qidi i-Fast delivers impressive print quality. The heated bed ensures better adhesion, resulting in smoother and more precise prints. The dual extruder system also helps to reduce stringing and improve overall print quality. Additionally, the printer has a layer resolution of 50 microns, allowing for fine details and intricate designs.
Quick solutions provided by Qidi i Fast
Easy maintenance
Maintaining a 3D printer can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. However, the Qidi i-Fast’s simple design makes it easy to maintain. The tool kit included in the package has everything you need to clean and maintain your printer, such as a scraper for removing excess filament and wrenches for tightening screws. Additionally, the printer’s enclosed build chamber protects it from dust and debris, reducing the chances of maintenance issues.
Fast print speed
The i-Fast is equipped with a high-quality stepper motor that allows for fast and smooth movements while printing. This results in quicker print times compared to other budget-friendly 3D printers. The printer also has a print speed of up to 100 mm/s, making it suitable for producing large or complex objects within a reasonable timeframe.
Wide range of compatible filaments
While the i-Fast is compatible with PLA and ABS filaments, it also supports other materials such as PETG, TPU, and Wood PLA. This gives users the flexibility to experiment with different filaments and create prints with unique properties, such as flexibility and wood-like texture. It also opens up possibilities for creating functional parts and prototypes using more durable materials.
Effective solutions provided by Qidi i Fast
Automatic bed leveling
The Qidi i-Fast comes with an automatic bed leveling feature, which ensures that the print bed is leveled accurately before every print. This eliminates the need for manual leveling, which can be time-consuming and tricky for new users. With the i-Fast, you can start printing right away without having to worry about adjusting the bed.
Large build volume
Despite its compact size, the Qidi i-Fast has a decent build volume of 260 x 200 x 200 mm. This means that you can print larger objects without having to break them down into smaller parts. This is especially useful for creating functional prototypes or larger decorative objects.
Versatile software
The i-Fast comes with two software options: Qidi Print and Cura. Qidi Print is the company’s proprietary software, while Cura is a popular open-source software used by many 3D printer owners. Both options provide a user-friendly interface and offer a wide range of settings and features for customization. Users can choose the software that best suits their needs and preferences.
How to unlock the secrets of Qidi i Fast
To fully utilize the capabilities of the Qidi i-Fast, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:
- Use high-quality filaments – While the i-Fast is compatible with various filaments, using high-quality ones can significantly improve print quality and reduce clogging.
- Adjust bed leveling – Even though the i-Fast has automatic bed leveling, it is still essential to check and adjust it occasionally to ensure accurate prints.
- Experiment with print settings – The i-Fast’s software allows for customization of print settings such as layer height, infill, and print speed. Experimenting with these settings can help achieve the desired results for different types of prints.
- Clean the extruder regularly – To keep the dual extruders in good condition, it is essential to clean them regularly, especially when switching between different filaments.
- Choose the right printing temperature – Different filaments require different temperatures to melt and adhere correctly. It is crucial to find the optimal temperature for each material to achieve the best results.
Conclusion
The Qidi i-Fast is a budget-friendly 3D printer that offers a balance of affordability and capability. Its compact size, user-friendly interface, and versatile features make it an attractive option for both beginners and professionals. With its dual extruder system, automatic bed leveling, and compatibility with various filaments, the i-Fast provides quick and effective solutions for a wide range of printing needs.
In this article, we have uncovered the secrets of the Qidi i-Fast by exploring its technical specifications, performance, and potential. We have also provided tips on how to get the most out of this printer. Whether you are looking to create functional prototypes, decorative objects, or experiment with different materials and colors, the i-Fast has you covered. With its impressive print quality, ease of use, and affordability, it is definitely a 3D printer worth considering.