The Original Prusa i3 MK2 is upgraded to the MK2S, while new data showcases the success behind this ever-evolving 3D printer.

Celebrated for its versatility and open-source nature, the Prusa i3 MK2 has emerged as one of the best desktop 3D printers on the market. After nearly one year, the MK2 remains ahead of the curve thanks to constant updates and upgrades.

Compared to the model that was first released, this open-source printer has undergone some major improvements. According to Josef Průša, the creator of the i3 MK2, their job doesn’t end once the product is launched, it’s just getting started.

Prusa i3 MK2: The Ever-Evolving 3D Printer

The Czech-based development team is constantly looking for ways to enhance the printer’s performance, and this is reflected in the loyalty of their customer base. In the latest announcement from Průša, he shared some astonishing numbers about the ever-evolving success behind the MK2.

Since the printer launched back in May 2016, Prusa has shipped around 18,000 models worldwide.

The MK2 has received 10 firmware revisions, five driver revisions, five assembly instruction updates, and five major handbook updates. Additionally, the team has released a plethora of 3D printed parts updates.

Currently, Prusa has a farm with 184 printers running in hot and harsh conditions for 24 hours a day. This extreme testing process has allowed the team to compile data on various failures, ultimately giving them insight on how to improve the MK2.

The result of their constant refinement is the Prusa i3 MK2S. Although the latest model provides the same print quality, firmware, and g-codes as the MK2, this update aims to tackle any performance issues that may have plagued users in the past.

MK2S: Better Components Means Better Performance

Prusa has upgraded a number of parts in order to improve the longevity and functionality of the MK2.

For starters, the i3 MK2S includes better LM8UU mounting on the Y axis. Previously, the zip ties that held the LM8UU bearings in place would weaken after part removal. This causes the print bed to become wobbly, slightly decreasing overall print quality. The MK2S kit includes U-bolts to hold these bearings in place, eliminating the need for zip ties.

The Prusa team also sourced better bearings and smoothers rods for the MK2S. On downside to the bearings originally included with the MK2 is that they were a bit noisy. The improved LM8UUs and rods work together to quiet down the printing process.

The MK2S kit includes a better P.I.N.D.A. probe mount, which is less prone to breaking and also easier to adjust. Improved cable stress relief on the extruder will help eliminate improper cable management. This is the biggest cause of failed probes and nozzle cooling fans, which often leads to nozzle clogging.

Lastly, the MK2S also features a revised version of the RAMBo mini cover for electronics. While the previous version was difficult to mount, the new component easily slides onto the bolts and into place. The new cover also prevents the wire harness from sagging after repeated use.

To upgrade your MK2 to the MK2S, you can purchase the new kit here. Aside from the parts listed above, the kit also includes orange and black EasyABS for the printable components. All of the STL files for the 3D printed components are downloadable from the Prusa website.

The Prusa i3 MK2S upgrade kit will start shipping out on April 3.