Kate G. - June 8 2025
A1 Mini with SwapMod: The Ultimate Hands-Off Printing Upgrade?
What is the A1 Mini SwapMod?
The Bambu Lab A1 Mini with SwapMod is an innovative add-on that transforms Bambu's beginner-friendly printer into a semi-automated multi-tray 3D printing system. Designed for makers who want unattended batch printing, this upgrade allows the A1 Mini to automatically swap build plates, letting you queue multiple prints in one go.
Who’s It For?
✔ Small business owners printing multiple copies of a product
✔ Hobbyists who want to maximize overnight printing
✔ Anyone tired of manually removing and reloading build plates
Pros of the SwapMod Upgrade
✅ Automated Tray Swapping – No more manual plate changes between prints. Just load multiple trays, and the A1 Mini handles the rest.
✅ Improved Workflow Efficiency – Perfect for small-batch production or printing multiple models in sequence.
✅ Compatibility with AMS Lite – If you already have Bambu’s AMS Lite for multi-color printing, the SwapMod integrates smoothly.
What Users Are Saying
*"This is a game-changer for my Etsy shop—I can now print 10 keychains overnight without touching the printer!"* – Mark T. (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
"Works great, but the extra space needed was a surprise. Make sure you have a deep desk!" – Lisa H. (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
"I reprinted the parts in ABS after my PLA hooks started sagging. Much better now!" – Carlos R. (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)
Important Considerations Before Buying
1. Increased Machine Footprint
The SwapMod adds bulk to the A1 Mini. Since it extends the front with a tray-swapping mechanism, you’ll need more desk space—about 30% extra depth. Measure your workspace before committing!
2. You’ll Need a Catch Bin for Finished
PrintsWhen the printer swaps trays, it ejects the completed build plate forward. Without a proper setup, your prints could drop to the floor. Solution: Place a sturdy storage bin in front of the printer. For extra protection, line it with soft foam or a silicone pad to cushion the falling plate and prevent model damage.
3. ABS is the Best Material for SwapMod Parts
The SwapMod includes 3D-printed components (like the tray hooks and sliding rails). While Bambu Lab provides these in PLA, I strongly recommend reprinting them in ABS for better durability. PLA can warp or weaken over time, especially if your printer sits in a warm environment.
4. Budget for an Extra PEI Plate
The A1 Mini comes with one textured PEI plate, but for smooth swapping, you’ll need at least two. Buying an additional smooth or textured PEI plate (~$30) is a smart investment to avoid downtime between prints.
Final Verdict: Worth It for Small-Batch Printing
If you frequently print multiple small parts or want hands-off production, the SwapMod is a game-changer—despite the extra space and setup requirements. Just be prepared to:
✔ Reprint parts in ABS for longevity.
✔ Add a catch bin to protect finished prints.
✔ Buy an extra PEI plate for seamless swapping.
For casual users, the added cost and space might not justify the upgrade. But for hobbyists and small-scale makers, it’s a huge time-saver.
Rating: 8.5/10 (Great functionality, but requires some tweaks for optimal use.)
Conclusion: A Premium Choice for Demanding Applications
Bambu PPA-CF is not designed for casual users. However, for those needing metal-like strength, high-temperature resistance, or chemical durability, its performance justifies the cost. User-tested tips like chamber temperature optimization (e.g., turning off the fan) can further enhance results, though these are unofficial and require experimentation.
Should You Buy It?
✅ If you need: Industrial-grade strength, extreme environment stability, long-term durability.
❌ If you’re looking for: Everyday model printing, low-cost prototyping, multi-material projects
