CR-10 VS CR-10 V2 Comparison Review
Taking what they learned from the CR-10, Creality released the CR-10 V2 as an upgraded, updated model. What’s changed and what’s stayed the same between these two models, and is the CR-10 V2 worth the added price? Find out today in our CR-10 vs CR-10 V2 3D printer review.
CR-10 Basics
Veterans in the 3D printing world may already know the CR-10’s specs by heart. This large printer comes with a huge print volume measuring 12” x 12” x 15.5” across a heated glass build plate. Print ABS or PLA at resolutions as high as 100-microns and at suggested speeds around 30-50mm/s. Connect using either a mini SD card or cabled USB, and interact with the printer through the CR-10’s famously bad turn-knob interface. Lastly, be aware that the CR-10 comes unassembled and requires some TLC before you start printing. Learn more with our full CR-10 review.
CR-10 V2 Basics
The CR-10 V2’s base specs are hardly discernible from its predecessor’s. Enjoy an 11.8″ x 11.8″ x 15.7″ build volume, both ABS and PLA filament compatibility, and resolutions as small as 100-microns small. Like the CR-10, the CR-10 V2 uses a glass print bed, turn-knob interface and simple yet effective SD-card and cabled USB connectivity. These are both big workhorse printers without a lot of bells and whistles. Learn more about this 3D printer with our CR-10 V2 review.
CR-10 VS CR-10 V2 Similarities: Basic Specs
As you can see from our section above, both these 3D printers have the same basic specifications. They have the same print volume, the same maximum resolution, the same connectivity options, the same user interface, and the same filament options.
To be fair, Creality had no reason to upgrade the base specs. Customers gravitated to the CR-10 for its build volume and ability to print in both ABS and PLA. The 100-micron print resolution, while relatively low, works better for large models than 50-micron resolution. These are the features fans love about the CR-10, so it’s smart to carry them over to the CR-10 V2.
CR-1O VS CR-10 V2 Differences: Stability, Price, and Noise
You might be wondering then, what are the CR-10 V2’s supposed upgrades? To start, the CR-10 V2 features additional frame supports, creating an A-frame or triangular design, which greatly improves the stability of the printer. Where the CR-10 was prone to misalignment over time and vibrating during prints, the CR-10 V2 is a much sturdier platform.
The CR-10 V2 is also extremely quiet during operation, unlike the CR-10. While printing, only the cooling fans are audible from the CR-10 V2. This makes it much more practical for use inside the home and even in “quiet places” like the den or bedroom. Upgraded stepper motors and motherboard combine for a smooth printing experience without all the racket.
The glass print bed has also received an upgrade in the CR-10 V2. The bed now features a textured ceramic top which helps models adhere to the plate and aids in removal of finished models.
Finally, the CR-10 V2 is quite a bit more expensive than the CR-10. Considering the success of the CR-10 was built on its inexpensive price tag, the CR-10 V2 boldly charges almost $200 more. That said, for some users, the benefit of a stronger structural foundation, better build plate material, and silent printing are worth the money.
CR-10 VS CR-10 V2 Verdict
So, will the CR-10 V2 replace the CR-10 as Creality’s most popular model? Not likely. With similar specs, the CR-10 V2 just isn’t a big enough upgrade for most people to pay a premium. What’s more, Creality have always suffered from issues with quality control and the CR-10 V2 is no different. We could see the appeal if the CR-10 V2 had fewer issues out of the box, but it’s not such a great deal considering you’ll have to do just as much work to both printers to get to reach their full potential.
Still, as mentioned above, the extra money paid for the CR-10 V2 might be worth it for you if you intended on upgrading the CR-10 anyway. Improving frame stability, build plate insulation, and upgrading the print bed are all timely and cost money. You can always save yourself some time and effort by paying out upfront. That said, most makers on a budget will still prefer the CR-10 for its comparable print quality and cheaper price tag.
