Being so similar to the CR-10, you may be wondering what makes the HICTOP CR-10S so special. Namely, why is it $100 more than the original? Our HICTOP CR-10S review answers all your questions and more so you can make the right decision.
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Printing Speed
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Build Size
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Precision
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Value
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Design
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User Experience
HICTOP CR-10S 3D Printer Review Basics
The CR-10S’s specifications are almost identical to the CR-10. That means it has an enormous build space of 11.8”x11.8”x15.7”, or 2100 cubic inches. At this size, your limited only by imagination, especially since you can use almost any filament with the CR-10S. If you plan to print with high-temp filaments regularly, though, we suggest changing out the PTFE hot end for all metal.
This 3D printer also comes with a heated, glass-top aluminum print bed for better adhesion with all filaments. Print at resolutions between 50-400 microns at up to 200mm/s speeds. Even in real world applications, the CR-10S achieves speeds up to 80mm/s with amazing results.
When you’re ready to print, simply connect to the CR-10S via tethered USB or microSD card. This 3D printer’s control box is pretty bare-bones but it at least gives you an interface with the machine.
HICTOP CR-10S Pros
Large Print Area
We’ve argued in favor of smaller 3D printers before, and for most users anything bigger than 8”x8”x8” is wasted. If you balked at that sentence, you’ll love the CR-10S’s gigantic 11.8”x11.8”x15.7” print space. Even at $100 more than the CR-10, it’s difficult to find such a large build space in this price range. That’s not even counting this printer’s exceptional precision and print quality.
Dual Z Lead Screws
Dual Z-axis lead screws are the CR-10S’s first major upgrade. Using two lead screws instead of one improves the printer’s stability and precision, especially with taller prints. Since the CR-10’s print quality is already so good, some users may not see much of a difference. Those who run their printers day and night, however, will find that this upgrade also improves the printer’s durability over time.
Filament Sensor
Another of the CR-10S’s upgrades is its filament sensor. Ever ruined a print by running out of filament mere grams before completion? The CR-10S’s filament sensor detects when filament runs out and pauses the print. It also pauses prints in the case of power outage. This little upgrade may save you hours of print time and tons of wasted filament.
HICTOP CR-10S 3D Printer Review Cons
Poor Accessories
From the included PLA to the instruction manual, the CR-10S’s accessories are pretty questionable. Do yourself a favor by ordering high quality filament and a new microSD card before this printer arrives. You may also want to check resources like Youtube for help getting started.
PLA or Upgrade
The PTFE hot end isn’t the only thing keeping you back from printing with high-temp filaments. Filaments like ABS require a dependable heated build plate and an enclosed print space. Both of these are easy upgrades with the CR-10S, but be prepared to print in PLA only until those upgrades are made.
HICTOP CR-10S 3D Printer Review Verdict
So, is the CR-10S worth buying over the CR-10? Chances are, you expect to do some modding if you’re looking at a printer in this price range. HICTOP has simply anticipated your first moves with upgrades to Z-axis stability, filament monitoring, and the motherboard itself. In our opinion, the extra $100 asking price is well worth it for changes we would have made anyway.
With all the benefits of the CR-10, the CR-10S manages to be even more precise and user friendly. If you’re torn between these two printers, our clear winner is the CR-10S.
