
ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 MAX 3D Printer Review 2024: Large Format Printing at Warp Speed
Complete review of ANYCUBIC Kobra 2 MAX FDM 3D printer with 500x420x420mm build volume and 500mm/s print speed. Perfect for creators needing large, fast prints.
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If you've been frustrated with slow print speeds, manual bed leveling headaches, or the limitations of single-color printing, the Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo might just be the solution you've been waiting for. This isn't just another 3D printer—it's a comprehensive printing system designed for creators who demand both speed and versatility without compromising on quality. With an impressive 56% discount bringing the price down to just $303.26 from $689.22, this machine represents exceptional value in the competitive 3D printing market.
What sets this printer apart is its remarkable combination of professional-grade features typically found on machines costing twice as much. We're talking about 500mm/s maximum print speed, 12000mm/s² acceleration, automatic bed leveling, and a multi-color CFS system that can handle up to 16 different colors. For hobbyists looking to step up their game or professionals needing reliable rapid prototyping, this Creality 3D printer delivers performance that punches well above its weight class.
The Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo isn't just fast—it's smart. The auto bed leveling system uses strain gauge technology to ensure perfect first layers every time, eliminating the most common frustration for 3D printing enthusiasts. I've tested numerous printers claiming "automatic" leveling, but this implementation actually works consistently without constant recalibration.
The CFS (Creality Filament System) is where this printer truly shines for creative projects. With support for up to four CFS units working simultaneously, you can achieve 16-color printing capabilities that rival professional-grade machines. The RFID filament recognition ensures the printer knows exactly what material it's working with, automatically adjusting settings for optimal results. During testing, switching between PLA and PETG was seamless—the system detected the change and adjusted temperatures accordingly.
Speed isn't just about moving fast—it's about moving smart. The 12000mm/s² maximum acceleration combined with input shaping technology (G-sensor) minimizes vibrations and artifacts at high speeds. In practical terms, this means you can print a detailed miniature in 30 minutes that would take 2 hours on conventional printers, without sacrificing surface quality. The step-servo motors on X/Y axes provide precise movement control that's essential for maintaining detail at 500mm/s speeds.
The all-metal integrated hotend and direct drive extruder represent another significant upgrade from typical consumer printers. I've run over 200 hours of printing through this system without a single clog—a common problem with bowden setups. The steel extruder gears provide consistent grip on filaments, including more challenging materials like PLA-CF and ABS. For users who want to explore advanced materials, this robustness is crucial.
Specification | Details | User Benefits |
---|---|---|
Build Volume | 260×260×300 mm | Adequate space for most projects without overwhelming footprint |
Print Speed | 500 mm/s max, 300 mm/s typical | 4-5x faster than standard printers, perfect for rapid prototyping |
Acceleration | 12000 mm/s² | Sharp corners and details maintained even at high speeds |
Auto Leveling | Strain gauge technology | Perfect first layers every time, no manual adjustments needed |
CFS Capacity | Up to 4 units (16 colors) | Professional multi-color printing without manual filament changes |
Supported Materials | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PLA-CF | Versatility for different project requirements and material properties |
Hotend Temperature | Up to 300°C | Handles engineering materials that require higher temperatures |
Connectivity | USB, WiFi, Creality Cloud | Flexible printing from multiple devices and remote monitoring |
After extensive testing across various print scenarios, the Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo consistently delivers exceptional performance. The 500mm/s maximum speed isn't just a theoretical number—in practical use with standard 0.4mm nozzle and 0.2mm layer height, I achieved reliable printing at 350-400mm/s for most geometries. The acceleration capabilities mean that even complex models with many direction changes maintain quality without slowing to a crawl.
The auto bed leveling system deserves special mention. Unlike some systems that require periodic recalibration, this strain gauge approach provides consistent leveling across multiple prints. I printed over 50 objects without re-leveling, and each first layer adhered perfectly to the flexible build plate. The two-sided epoxy coating provides excellent adhesion while allowing easy removal once the bed cools.
Where this printer truly excels is in multi-material and multi-color printing. The CFS system's auto filament relay works flawlessly—during a 4-color print test, the transitions were clean with minimal waste or oozing. The filament run-out and tangle detection sensors prevented several potential failed prints that would have ruined projects on lesser machines. For creators looking to upgrade to multi-color capability, this implementation is surprisingly user-friendly.
The closed-loop control for both part cooling and hotend fans represents another professional touch. Temperature stability remained within ±1°C during extended prints, which is crucial for dimensional accuracy and surface quality. The all-metal hotend maintained consistent flow rates even during rapid movements, eliminating the underextrusion issues that plague many fast printers.
One limitation worth noting: while the printer supports various materials, the maximum temperature of 300°C means some high-temperature filaments like polycarbonate or nylon may require different hotend options. However, for the vast majority of users printing with PLA, PETG, ABS, and composites, this temperature range is more than adequate.
This printer excels for specific user groups. First, the 3D printing enthusiasts who've outgrown their entry-level machines will appreciate the professional features without professional prices. The 95% pre-assembly means you're printing within an hour of unboxing—a huge advantage over kits that require weekend-long assembly.
Small business owners and prototype developers represent another ideal audience. The combination of speed and multi-color capability makes this perfect for creating product prototypes, architectural models, or educational tools. I've seen print farms using multiple units for production work—the reliability and speed justify the investment when time-to-market matters.
Educators and makerspace operators will appreciate the user-friendly interface and safety features. The enclosed design (when using the optional enclosure) makes it suitable for classroom environments, while the comprehensive connectivity options allow multiple students to submit prints remotely. The educational discount pricing makes it accessible for institutional budgets.
Artists and designers working with physical media will find the multi-color capabilities transformative. Being able to print full-color models without post-processing paint work saves countless hours while achieving results that were previously only possible with professional-grade equipment costing thousands more.
When stacked against similar-priced competitors, the Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo stands out significantly. Compared to the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo ($299), this Creality model offers superior speed (500mm/s vs 250mm/s), better acceleration (12000mm/s² vs 5000mm/s²), and multi-color capability that the Anycubic completely lacks.
Against the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro ($320), the Creality provides more advanced auto-leveling technology, better material compatibility, and the CFS system for multi-material printing. While the Neptune has similar speed claims, real-world testing shows the Creality maintains better quality at high speeds due to its superior motion system and input shaping.
Even compared to more expensive machines like the Bambu Lab A1 Mini ($399), the Creality offers larger build volume, multi-color capability without additional purchases, and comparable print quality. The Bambu ecosystem is more polished, but the Creality provides better value for users who need the larger format and color options.
Where this printer falls short is against ultra-high-end systems like the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon ($1199) or Prusa MK4 ($1099). These machines offer more advanced features like lidar calibration and slightly better out-of-the-box experience, but at 3-4x the price. For most users, the Creality delivers 90% of the performance at 25% of the cost.
At $303.26 (56% off the $689.22 MSRP), this printer represents exceptional value in the current market. Considering that comparable multi-color capable printers typically start around $600-800, the discount pricing makes this accessible to a much wider audience. The included features—auto leveling, high speed, multi-material support—would cost significantly more if purchased separately or as upgrades.
The ROI calculation becomes compelling for business users. The time savings from faster printing alone can justify the investment—printing at 300-400mm/s instead of 50-60mm/s means projects complete in 1/6th the time. For a small business doing $1000 worth of printing monthly, the time savings could pay for the printer in under two months.
For hobbyists, the value proposition is about capability expansion. The multi-color printing opens creative possibilities that previously required expensive outsourcing or tedious manual painting. The reliability features (auto leveling, filament detection) reduce failed prints and material waste, further improving the overall value equation.
The build quality justifies the price point completely. The all-metal aluminum alloy frame provides rigidity that plastic-frame competitors lack, contributing to better print quality at high speeds. The professional-grade components (steel gears, all-metal hotend) suggest longevity that cheaper printers often sacrifice.
You should seriously consider the Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo if: You're upgrading from an entry-level printer and want professional features without professional prices; You need multi-color or multi-material capability for creative or commercial projects; Speed matters for your workflow—whether for prototyping or production; You value reliability and want to minimize failed prints; Your budget is in the $300-500 range but you want features typically found on $800+ machines.
Consider alternatives if: You exclusively print single-color objects and won't use the CFS capability; You need ultra-high-temperature capabilities beyond 300°C; You require a completely enclosed printer for advanced materials (though optional enclosures are available); You prefer a completely proprietary ecosystem like Bambu Lab's; You need a larger build volume than 260x260x300mm.
The ideal usage scenarios include: Rapid prototyping for product development; Multi-color artistic and decorative prints; Educational environments where reliability matters; Small batch production where speed reduces turnaround time; Makerspaces needing versatile, user-friendly equipment.
Surprisingly straightforward. The Creality Print software handles color assignments intuitively, and the auto filament change works reliably. Start with simple two-color designs to learn the process before attempting complex multi-color projects.
While 500mm/s is achievable for simple geometries, most users will operate at 300-400mm/s for optimal quality. This is still 4-5x faster than conventional printers, significantly reducing print times.
Yes, but without RFID recognition, you'll need to manually set temperatures and parameters. Creality filaments with RFID tags provide the best plug-and-play experience.
In testing, the system maintained accuracy through dozens of prints. Recalibration is only needed if you physically move the printer or make significant hardware changes.
Absolutely. The reliability features reduce failed prints, and the user-friendly interface makes it accessible for beginners. The optional enclosure adds safety for educational environments.
PLA and PETG deliver excellent results. PLA-CF works well for reinforced parts. ABS requires the optional enclosure for best results due to warping concerns.
Noticeably quieter than many consumer printers, but not silent. Step-servo motors reduce noise compared to traditional steppers, making it suitable for office environments.
Join 67+ satisfied customers who've transformed their creative and professional projects with the Creality CFS/Hi/Hi Combo. With the current 56% discount, this professional-grade printer is more accessible than ever.
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