Looking for a big 3D printer that can handle large projects? The Creality CR-M4 might be just what you need. This printer boasts a huge build area of 17.71 x 17.71 x 18.5 inches, perfect for making big models or lots of smaller ones at once.
The CR-M4 has some cool features that make it stand out. It uses a direct drive extruder, which helps print tricky materials like flexible filaments. Plus, it has a 25-point auto-leveling system to make sure your prints come out nice and even.
You’ll find lots of ways to connect and control this printer. It works with Wi-Fi, USB, and even cloud printing. The bed heats up fast and has a flexible surface that makes it easy to remove your finished prints.
Some users say they’ve had trouble with bed adhesion, while others love how quick and easy it is to set up. It seems to work great for some people but others have had issues getting consistent results.
Bottom Line
If you want a large 3D printer with lots of features, the Creality CR-M4 is worth checking out. It’s not perfect, but it could be a good fit for your big projects.
Click here to buy the Creality CR-M4 and start printing big!
Creality Large 3D Printer CR-M4 Overview
The CR-M4 is a big printer that can make large 3D objects. It has a big print area of about 17.7 x 17.7 x 18.5 inches. This means you can print bigger things or many small things at once. The printer has some cool features that make it work better.
It has a system that levels the print bed on its own. This helps make sure your prints come out right. The printer also has a special part that pushes the plastic through better. This helps with printing tricky materials.
The CR-M4 lets you print in different ways. You can use a USB drive, connect it to your computer, or even print over the internet. It’s made for places like schools or businesses that need to print a lot.
While it’s a good printer, it’s pretty heavy at about 59 pounds. You’ll need a sturdy table for it. It also takes up a fair amount of space, so make sure you have room for it.
Quasi-Industrial Large Format
The CR-M4 boasts a huge build volume of 450x450x470mm. This allows you to create bigger, more complex models without splitting them into smaller parts. You can also print multiple items at once, saving time and boosting efficiency. It’s great for prototyping or small production runs.
The printer uses dual Y-axis linear rails made of bearing steel. These can handle loads up to 30 kg and run for 720 hours straight. The Z-axis forms a rigid triangle with two support bars, giving the upper frame better stability.
An all-metal “Sprite” direct dual-gear extruder helps feed filament smoothly. It can print flexible materials like TPU. The 25-point auto-leveling system with CR Touch makes bed leveling a breeze.
You get several ways to connect and control the CR-M4. Options include cloud printing, USB drives, cables, LAN, and Wi-Fi. You can even manage multiple CR-M4 printers from one place using Creality’s software.
Precise and Reliable Dual Y-Axis Linear Rails
You’ll appreciate the stability and accuracy of the CR-M4’s dual Y-axis linear rails. These CNC-machined guides are made of tough bearing steel. They can handle up to 30 kg of weight, making them perfect for big prints. The powerful motor keeps going strong for 720 hours straight. That’s a whole month of non-stop printing!
The Z-axis is rock-solid too. It forms a sturdy triangle with two support bars. This design keeps the upper frame steady, even during long print jobs. You’ll notice less wobble and better print quality as a result.
These features really shine when you’re working on large, complex models. The precise movements mean cleaner lines and smoother surfaces on your prints. It’s a big step up from cheaper printers that can struggle with bigger projects.
All-Metal Sprite Direct Dual-Gear Extruder
The Sprite extruder is a game-changer for your printing needs. It’s all-metal, which means it can handle high temps without breaking a sweat. The dual-gear design grips filament like a pro, pushing it through with up to 80 N of force. This means you’ll get smoother, more precise prints.
Want to print with flexible filaments? The Sprite has got you covered. It feeds TPU and other bendy materials without a hitch. You’ll love how it makes tricky prints a breeze.
But it’s not all roses. Some users say it can be a bit noisy when running. Also, if you’re new to 3D printing, setting it up might take some practice.
Still, for most folks, the Sprite’s pros far outweigh its cons. It’s a solid choice that’ll up your printing game.
Genuine 25-Point Auto-Leveling
The CR-M4 takes the hassle out of bed leveling. Its 25-point auto-leveling system uses a CR Touch sensor to map the print surface. This means you’ll get a perfectly level first layer every time. No more manual adjustments or failed prints due to an uneven bed. The system is fast and accurate, saving you time and frustration. You can start printing quickly without worrying about leveling issues. While it’s a great feature, keep in mind that you may still need to occasionally check and fine-tune the leveling for the best results.
Flexible PC Surface and Fast-Heating Bed
The CR-M4’s flexible PC surface and fast-heating bed are game-changers for your printing projects. You’ll love how quickly the bed heats up, getting you started on your prints in no time. The flexible surface makes it a breeze to pop off your finished pieces. No more struggling with stuck prints! This combo of features means less waiting and easier post-print handling. It’s perfect for when you need to churn out multiple prints fast. The bed also stays level, so you can count on consistent results print after print. Whether you’re making prototypes or fun figurines, this setup has got your back.
Pros and Cons
This 3D printer offers a mix of benefits and drawbacks worth considering before you buy.
Pros
- Big printing area lets you make large models or many small ones at once
- Automatic bed leveling with 25 points for easier setup
- All-metal extruder works well with different materials
- Fast-heating bed with flexible surface for easy print removal
- Multiple connection options including Wi-Fi and Cloud printing
Cons
- Bed adhesion issues reported by some users
- May need adjustments for each print
- Phone compatibility is limited
- Filament sensor location isn’t ideal
- Some units arrive damaged due to shipping
Customer Reviews
The CR-M4 has sparked mixed reactions among users. Many praise its large build volume and easy setup process, with some reporting successful prints within minutes of unboxing. The auto-leveling feature is a hit, making bed calibration a breeze for most. Print quality gets high marks, especially for a printer in this price range.
But it’s not all smooth sailing. Some users have faced bed adhesion issues and struggled with consistent results across different prints. A few received damaged units, highlighting potential shipping concerns. The lack of phone app compatibility disappointed some buyers who expected this feature.
Despite these hiccups, many users find the CR-M4 a solid upgrade from smaller printers. Its speed and print quality impress even experienced makers. If you’re new to 3D printing or looking to scale up your projects, the CR-M4 could be a good fit – just be prepared for a learning curve.
Conclusion
The CR-M4 is a mixed bag. It offers a huge build volume and some nice features like auto-leveling. But it’s not perfect. Some users love how easy it is to set up and use. Others struggle with issues like bed adhesion or inconsistent prints. Think about your needs and skill level. Are you okay with some tinkering? Or do you want something that works flawlessly out of the box? Consider your budget too. This printer could be a great fit if you need big prints and don’t mind some tweaking. But there may be better options if you want hassle-free printing. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious about large-format 3D printing? Let’s dive into some common questions to help you understand the world of oversized 3D printers.
What is the maximum build volume available in consumer 3D printers?
Consumer 3D printers have come a long way in size. The biggest models can print objects up to 1 meter in each dimension. That’s huge! Most large consumer printers fall in the 400-600mm range for each axis. The CR-M4, for example, offers a 450x450x470mm build volume.
How much does a large-format 3D printer typically cost?
Get ready for some sticker shock. Large 3D printers aren’t cheap. Prices start around $1,000 for entry-level models and can soar past $10,000 for high-end machines. Mid-range options like the CR-M4 fall somewhere in between. Remember, you’re paying for size and features.
What are the leading brands offering large build area 3D printers?
Several big names dominate the large-format 3D printer market:
- Creality
- Raise3D
- BCN3D
- Ultimaker
- BigRep
These brands offer a range of options for different needs and budgets.
Are there specific 3D printers recommended for large-scale prototyping and manufacturing?
For serious prototyping and manufacturing, look at:
- Raise3D Pro3 Plus
- BCN3D Sigma D25
- Ultimaker S5
- BigRep STUDIO G2
These printers balance size, precision, and reliability for professional use.
What should be considered when looking to 3D print oversized objects?
Printing big comes with challenges:
- Print time: Large prints can take days
- Material cost: You’ll use a lot more filament
- Warping: Bigger prints are more prone to warping
- Stability: Ensure your printer is on a solid surface
- Post-processing: You might need special tools to finish large prints
Plan ahead and be patient with large prints.
What is the level of precision offered by large bed 3D printers?
Large printers can be surprisingly precise. Many offer layer heights as low as 0.05mm. The CR-M4, for instance, boasts 0.05mm Z-offset accuracy. However, maintaining precision over a large area can be tricky. Factors like bed leveling and temperature control become even more critical.