Qidi Tech I-Fast Review: A Deep Dive into High-Speed, High-Performance 3D Printing

The Qidi Tech I-Fast has positioned itself as a contender in the market for 3D printers that prioritize speed and efficiency. But does it live up to the hype? After a thorough evaluation, let's break down its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.

Design and Build Quality: A Solid Foundation

The I-Fast makes a strong first impression with its robust construction.

• Frame: It features a sturdy, fully enclosed metal frame, which is crucial for minimizing vibrations, especially during high-speed printing. This rigidity contributes significantly to print quality and accuracy.

• Motion System: A key highlight is its implementation of linear rails on all axes. This is a significant upgrade from traditional rod-based systems, offering smoother and more precise movement, which is essential for achieving the advertised speeds. The dual Z-axis structure further enhances stability.

• Enclosure: The enclosed build chamber is a valuable feature, particularly for printing temperature-sensitive materials like ABS and Nylon. It helps maintain a stable temperature, reducing warping and improving layer adhesion.

• Aesthetics: The design is generally modern and professional, making it suitable for both home and professional environments.

Features: Power and Convenience

The I-Fast comes packed with a range of features designed to enhance the printing experience:

• Dual Extrusion: The automatic dual extrusion system is a major selling point. It allows for multi-material printing (e.g., printing with both model and support material) or printing two identical parts simultaneously, increasing productivity.

• High-Temperature Extruders: The all-metal hotends can reach high temperatures, enabling compatibility with a wider range of engineering-grade filaments, including Nylon and Polycarbonate.

• Large Build Volume: The generous build volume caters to users who need to print larger parts or multiple objects at once.

• Touchscreen Interface: The intuitive touchscreen interface provides easy access to printer controls and settings.

• Qidi Slicing Software: Qidi provides its own slicing software, offering both simplified and advanced modes to cater to different user skill levels. It also supports third-party slicers.

• Connectivity: The I-Fast typically includes various connectivity options, such as USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi.

Performance: Speed vs. Quality

The I-Fast's claim to fame is its speed, but how does it balance that with print quality?

• Speed: The CoreXY system and robust motion system contribute to its ability to print at higher speeds compared to many traditional Cartesian printers. However, real-world print speeds can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the model and the chosen settings.

• Print Quality: When properly calibrated, the I-Fast can produce high-quality prints with good dimensional accuracy and a smooth surface finish. However, achieving optimal quality may require fine-tuning slicer settings and careful filament selection.

• Reliability: User experiences with reliability seem to vary. Some users report consistent and trouble-free printing, while others have encountered issues requiring troubleshooting and support.

Material Compatibility

The I-Fast's heated chamber and high-temperature hotends expand its material compatibility. It can typically handle:

• PLA and PLA+

• ABS

• PETG

• Nylon

• Polycarbonate

• And other engineering-grade filaments

Software and User Experience

• Slicing Software: Qidi's proprietary slicing software offers both a user-friendly interface for beginners and advanced options for experienced users. It also supports popular third-party slicers, providing flexibility.

• Touchscreen: The touchscreen interface is generally well-received for its ease of navigation and control.

• Ease of Use: While the I-Fast has many automated features, achieving optimal results may require some level of expertise in 3D printing, especially when working with advanced materials.

Value Proposition

The Qidi Tech I-Fast offers a compelling combination of speed, features, and material compatibility. However, its value proposition depends on individual needs and priorities.

• Pros:

  • High-speed printing capabilities

  • Dual extrusion system

  • Enclosed build chamber

  • Wide material compatibility

  • Robust build quality

• Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than some other 3D printers

  • Achieving optimal print quality may require some fine-tuning

  • Reliability can vary among users

Special Offer and Call to Action

Currently, the Qidi Tech I-Fast is available at a discounted price of $1,319.00. This makes it an even more attractive option for those seeking a high-performance 3D printer.

Final Thoughts

The Qidi Tech I-Fast is a capable 3D printer that delivers on its promise of speed and versatility. It's a solid choice for users who need to print functional parts with a range of materials and appreciate a robust and feature-rich machine. However, it's essential to weigh its pros and cons carefully and consider your individual needs and budget before making a purchase.