Our verdict: Bambu Studio is the smoothest slicer for Bambu Lab printers, with tuned profiles and built-in printer control. Multi-color projects and plate management work well. Its best features are tied to Bambu hardware and the Bambu cloud.
About Bambu Studio
Bambu Studio is developed by Bambu Lab under the AGPLv3 and is based on PrusaSlicer. It uses project-based workflows around the 3MF format, with multiple plates, a project resource manager and assembly or part views in one file.
Colors painted on a model are mapped automatically to AMS filament slots before printing. The Device tab sends jobs over LAN or the internet and shows a live view of the printer. Slicing settings include arc moves, smart cooling and automatic slowdown for overhangs, and STEP files can be imported for more accurate curves.
What it does well
- Multi-plate projects. Several build plates and an assembly view in one 3MF project.
- Multi-color painting. Paint colors on models and map them to AMS slots automatically.
- Remote control. Send jobs and monitor Bambu printers over LAN or WAN.
- STEP import. Uses accurate STEP geometry to generate smoother arc paths.
- 3D text. Adds embossed text to models with dozens of fonts.
Who it is for
Good fit
Owners of Bambu Lab printers who want the official, ready-tuned workflow.
Look elsewhere
Users of other printer brands or anyone who wants a slicer independent of a vendor cloud.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source
- Tuned profiles for Bambu printers
- Excellent multi-color workflow
- Built-in printer monitoring
Cons
- Best features need Bambu hardware
- Cloud printing requires a Bambu Lab account
How to install Bambu Studio
Download the Windows installer (Windows 10 64-bit or later). Signing in to a Bambu Lab account enables cloud printing and the device view; LAN-only mode can be set up on the printer if you prefer to stay offline. Ignore the Beta builds offered next to the stable version.
Questions about Bambu Studio
Is Bambu Studio free?
Yes. It is open source under the AGPLv3 and free to download.
Can I use Bambu Studio with other printers?
It includes some third-party profiles, but OrcaSlicer or PrusaSlicer support more brands.
