The long-awaited input shaping update for the Original Prusa MK4 is here, stable, and a core part of the printer’s experience, meaning owners of the printer can now expect their prints in lickedy-split time with no drop in quality. Firmware 5.0.0 is available now for download from the Prusa website.
But we knew this was coming. It’s been a listed feature of the MK4 since its launch back in Spring 2023 and in alpha since June. The thing that has our attention from yesterday’s announcement on the Prusa Research blog is the release of new alpha firmware for the Original Prusa Mini and Mini+, making both printers “several times faster” with input shaping and pressure advance of their own.
To achieve this, Prusa has brought the machines into its unified codebase, which also encompasses the MK4 and XL 3D printers. This means the Mini and Mini+ can now leverage features such as input shaping, pressure advance, and precise stepping to enable high-speed printing. Prusa has released a video showing this in action, with a Mini printing a Benchy in just 16 minutes.
The firmware release also sees Mini and Mini+ machines receiving a UI refresh, and the Mini gaining support for Prusa Connect, Prusa’s web platform for remote printing. Additionally, it should ostensibly allow for Prusa to simultaneously roll out updates across all the printers within the codebase, although how this will play out in actuality – given that the Mini and Mini+ have less memory and weaker boards than their more powerful siblings – remains to be seen.
Why Prusa has chosen now to give four-year-old machines such an update is not entirely clear. There’s no denying the timing is too apt to be a coincidence, considering Bambu Lab’s unveiling of the A1 mini budget 3D printer today. Still, there’s that time-worn saying about gift horses and mouths – so we’ll keep quiet and be happy.
The full release notes for the Mini and Mini+ 5.1.0-alpha1 firmware release are currently up on Github, where you’ll also find update instructions, printing tips, and more information about Prusa Connect.
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License: The text of "Original Prusa MK4 Input Shaping Is Here, and the Mini Gets in on the Fun Too" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.