Prusa Research has unveiled its latest 3D printer, the Core One, introducing cutting-edge features at a competitive price. Despite being based on CoreXY kinematics, the recently launched MK4S also offers an affordable upgrade path.
“Today, we are ready to take over the world once again,” declared Josef Průša during a press event at Formnext 2024.
The Core One marks Prusa’s second CoreXY system following last year’s Original Prusa XL. This new model features a compact enclosed design while delivering an expanded build volume of 250 x 220 x 270 mm—10 mm more on the X and Y axes and 20 mm more on the Z axis than the MK4S. Remarkably, the printer's overall dimensions are just 415 x 444 x 555 mm, making it highly space-efficient.
Smaller than the MK4S on the X and Y axes, the Core One offers a significantly more compact footprint, especially with its current Prusa enclosure. The design cleverly accommodates material spools in recessed positions, preserving its space-saving profile.
Despite its larger build volume, Prusa has emphasized compatibility with its existing print beds, allowing current users to continue using their existing inventory without the need for replacements.Smaller than the MK4S on the X and Y axes, the Core One offers a significantly more compact footprint, especially with its current Prusa enclosure. The design cleverly accommodates material spools in recessed positions, preserving its space-saving profile.
Despite its larger build volume, Prusa has emphasized compatibility with its existing print beds, allowing current users to continue using their existing inventory without the need for replacements.
The Core One system is optimized for high-temperature materials like ABS, PC, and PA, benefiting from its enclosed design. Prusa highlights its rapid heating capability without the need for additional heating components.
Upgrading the MK4S to the Core One requires disassembling and rebuilding the machine using a Core One kit, priced at €489 (U.S. pricing to be confirmed). While the conversion process is more complex than previous upgrades, it delivers significant rewards. The revamped machine is 50% smaller than the MK4S with an enclosure, offers 30% more build volume, and achieves print speeds up to 20% faster—or even 27% in certain scenarios.
A notable new feature of the Core One is its active chamber temperature control system, which Prusa claims removes the need to open doors or top covers when printing with low-temperature materials like PLA or PETG. This is made possible by two high-performance fans. During a press presentation, the chamber maintained a temperature of just 27ºC, though performance may vary depending on ambient temperatures. For extreme cases, an additional top vent is also included.
Thanks to the active chamber cooling, Prusa asserts that the enclosed system can maintain the impressive 75º overhangs achieved by the MK4S.
"When he showed me the model, I was like 'no way,'" said Průša, referring to the company's Scandic plate 3D model, which was used to showcase Prusa's 75º overhang capabilities. "And then we nailed it."
The Prusa Core One is now available for pre-order at $1,199 for the fully assembled system, with DIY kits and MK4S conversion kits expected to be released later. This price does not include cameras, which will be available soon for €40.
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