Best Multi-Filament 3D Printers of 2025: A Detailed Comparison

Multi-filament 3D printing has transformed the additive manufacturing landscape, enabling vibrant, multi-material prints and complex designs with soluble supports. The main strength of multi-filament 3D printer is that It can print multi-material to make complex objects like bike helmet. This technology make one 3D printed object with the two or more machine features of difference material.

It is need to note, the multi-color 3D printing are not multi-material 3D printing. Of course, the multi-filament 3D printers can do multi-color 3D printing, even more efficient than the Multi-color 3D printing device Bambu Lab AMS. The 3D printer with multi tool heads can much save the waste of filaments.

There are three main multi filament 3D printing technologies: 1. IDEX 3D printer 2.Tool heads 3D printer 3. Dual-Nozzles in one head 3D printer. The IDEX 3D printer are the most popular multi filament 3D printing technology as it is easy to made, but it is hard to work stable. Tool heads is a complex technology that only be employed by 2 3D printer manufacturers. The third solution-Dual-Nozzles in one head, are employing by Bambu Lab, Ultimaker and Raise3D. It is high stable technology used in industry.

This article compares four standout models: the Bambu Lab H2D, Snapmaker J1s, UltiMaker S6, and Prusa XL, with a special focus on the innovative, budget-friendly WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4. We’ll evaluate their performance, features, and value to help you choose the best multi-filament 3D printer for your needs.

Multi-filament 3D printing has revolutionized additive manufacturing, enabling vibrant multi-color prints, complex multi-material designs, and efficient use of soluble supports. Two primary approaches dominate this space: toolhead systems (multiple independent print heads, each with its own nozzle) and dual-nozzle single-head systems (two nozzles integrated into one print head). This article compares top multi-filament 3D printers—Bambu Lab H2D, Snapmaker J1s, UltiMaker S6, Prusa XL, and the budget-friendly WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4—focusing on their toolhead or dual-nozzle solutions. We’ll evaluate their performance, efficiency, and suitability, with a deep dive into the pros and cons of each approach.

Toolhead vs. Dual-Nozzle Single-Head: A Technical ComparisonToolhead

Toolhead Systems

Toolhead systems, as seen in printers like the Prusa XL and WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4, use multiple independent print heads, each with its own extruder and nozzle. These heads are swapped during printing to deposit different materials or colors.

Advantages:

● Minimal Waste: No purging is required when switching materials or colors, as each toolhead is dedicated to a single filament, reducing filament waste (no "filament poop").

● Material Flexibility: Each toolhead can be optimized for specific materials (e.g., PLA, ABS, TPU) with different temperatures and nozzle sizes, enabling seamless multi-material printing.

● Scalability: Systems like the Prusa XL support up to five toolheads, allowing for complex prints with multiple colors or materials. The WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4 offers four toolheads at a budget price.

● Speed for Complex Prints: Rapid toolhead swaps (e.g., 12 seconds for Bondtech INDX) minimize downtime, enhancing efficiency for multi-material projects.

Disadvantages:

● Higher Cost and Complexity: Toolhead systems require sophisticated mechanics and calibration, increasing initial costs and maintenance demands.

● Larger Footprint: Multiple toolheads and their docking systems can make printers bulkier.

● Community Support: Newer systems like the WonderMaker may lack the established user base of brands like Prusa or Bambu Lab.

Dual-Nozzle Single-Head Systems

Dual-nozzle single-head systems, as used in printers like the UltiMaker S6, Bambu H2D and some configurations of the Snapmaker J1s, feature one print head with two nozzles, each connected to a separate extruder.

Advantages:

● High Stable and Precision: Integrating two nozzles into one head make these printers more stable and than toolhead systems in long running.

● Lower Cost: Generally more affordable than toolhead or IDEX systems, appealing to budget-conscious users.

● Simpler Calibration: Only one print head needs alignment, reducing setup complexity compared to multiple toolheads.

Disadvantages:

● Filament Waste: Switching between nozzles requires purging, leading to significant filament waste, especially for frequent color or material changes than twice.

● Limited to Two Materials: Most dual-nozzle systems are restricted to two filaments, limiting complexity compared to toolhead systems.

● Slower for Multi-Material Prints: Purging and temperature adjustments for different materials (e.g., PLA to ABS) can cause delays and jams.

Top 5 Multi filament 3D printer 2025

1. Bambu Lab H2D Price: ~$1,999

● Build Volume: 300 x 320 x 325 mm

● System: Dual-nozzle single-head with AMS (Automatic Material System, single-nozzle with filament switching)

Key Features:

● High Precision 3D printing with the vision encoder plate

● AMS supports up to 4 filaments (expandable to 16 with multiple units).

● High-speed CoreXY printing (up to 1000 mm/s).

● AI failure detection and auto bed leveling.

● Heated chamber for engineering-grade materials.

Best For: Hobbyists prioritizing speed and ease of use over waste minimization.

Pros:

● Exceptional print speed and automation.

● Seamless integration with Bambu Studio software.

● Compact design for its capabilities.

Cons:

● Significant filament waste during AMS purging.

● Smaller build volume than competitors.

● Limited to Bambu’s filament ecosystem for optimal results.

2. Snapmaker J1s Price: ~$1,099

● Build Volume: 300 x 200 x 200 mm

● System: IDEX (dual independent nozzles, single-head with two nozzles option available)

Key Features:

● IDEX system for dual-material or duplicate printing.

● Modular design with 3D printing, laser, and CNC capabilities.

● Touchscreen with Wi-Fi connectivity.

● Improved cooling for better overhangs.

● Open-source filament compatibility.

Best For: Makers needing a multi-purpose machine with decent multi-filament capabilities.

Pros:

● Versatile 3-in-1 functionality.

● Larger build volume than Bambu Lab H2D.

● Robust community support.

Cons:

● Slower than Bambu Lab (max 350 mm/s).

● Filament waste in dual-nozzle mode.

● Higher price for non-3D printing features.

3. Ultimake S6 Price: ~$7,999

● Build Volume: 300 x 240 x 300 mm

● System: Dual-nozzle single-head with swappable print cores

Key Features:

● Dual extrusion for multi-material printing.

● Large, enclosed chamber for temperature stability.

● Filament flow sensors and network connectivity.

● Wide material compatibility, including composites.

● Industrial-grade build quality.

Best For: Professional studios needing high-quality, dual-material prints.

Pros:

● Exceptional print quality and reliability.

● Large build volume for bigger projects.

● Extensive material compatibility.

Cons:

● High cost.

● No IDEX or toolhead system, limiting efficiency.

● Slower print speeds (max 200 mm/s).

4. Prusa XL Price: ~$3,999 (5-toolhead version)

● Build Volume: 360 x 360 x 360 mm

● System: Toolhead system (up to 5 independent toolheads)

Key Features:

● Modular toolhead system for up to 5 materials/colors.

● Massive build volume for large-scale projects.

● Automatic toolhead alignment and segmented heated bed.

● Open-source design with extensive community support.

● Supports diverse filaments, including TPU (with manual loading).

Best For: Advanced users needing large, complex multi-material prints.

Pros:

● Unmatched flexibility with up to 5 materials.

● Largest build volume in this comparison.

● Highly customizable and repairable.

Cons:

● Expensive, especially for 5-toolhead setup.

● Complex setup and calibration.

● Manual filament loading is labor-intensive.

5. WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4 Price: ~$999.

● Build Volume: 280 x 280 x 280 mm

● System: Toolhead system (up to 5 independent toolheads)

Key Features:

● Four toolheads for simultaneous multi-material printing.

● CoreXY motion system for fast, precise prints (up to 400 mm/s).

● Auto bed leveling and filament runout sensors.

● Open-source firmware with third-party filament support.

● Budget-friendly price for advanced features.

Best For: Budget-conscious makers seeking advanced multi-filament capabilities.

Pros:

● Exceptional value for a 4-toolhead system.

● Minimal waste with dedicated toolheads.

● Decent build volume and high speeds.

Cons:

● No enclosed chamber for high-temperature materials.

● Newer brand with limited community support.

● Less polished software than competitors.

Comparison Table

Toolhead vs. Dual-Nozzle: Which Is Better?

Efficiency

● Toolhead Systems (Prusa XL, WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4): Superior for multi-material printing due to zero purging, minimal waste, and rapid toolhead swaps. They excel in complex projects requiring multiple filaments or nozzle sizes.

● Dual-Nozzle Single-Head Systems (UltiMaker S6, Snapmaker J1s in dual-nozzle mode, Bambu H2D): Less efficient due to purging and oozing, which increase waste and print time. Limited to two materials, making them less versatile.

Cost and Accessibility

● Toolhead Systems:Higher upfront costs (e.g., Prusa XL at $3,999) but the WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4 ($999) disrupts this trend, offering toolhead technology at a budget price.

● Dual-Nozzle Single-Head Systems (UltiMaker S6, Snapmaker J1s in dual-nozzle mode, Bambu H2D):More affordable (e.g., Sovol SV02 at ~$500, not reviewed here) but less scalable and efficient. The UltiMaker S6’s high cost ($7,999) reflects its professional focus, not accessibility.

Material Flexibility

● Toolhead Systems: Handle diverse materials (PLA, TPU, ABS, composites) with ease, as each toolhead can be tuned independently. Ideal for engineering-grade prints.

● Dual-Nozzle Single-Head Systems: Struggle with materials of different melting points due to shared head dynamics, increasing jam risks. Limited to two materials.

Use Case Suitability

● Toolhead Systems: Best for advanced users, small businesses, or hobbyists tackling complex, multi-material, or large-scale projects.

● Dual-Nozzle Single-Head Systems: Suited for beginners or budget users needing basic dual-color or dual-material prints with simpler setups.

Recommendations

Best Overall: Prusa XL

The Prusa XL is the top choice for advanced multi-filament printing, with its 5-toolhead system offering unmatched flexibility, minimal waste, and a massive build volume. Ideal for complex, large-scale projects, though its cost and setup complexity may deter casual users.

Best Budget Multi-Filament: WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4

The WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4 delivers a 4-toolhead system at an unbeatable price, offering efficiency and versatility comparable to the Prusa XL. Its lack of an enclosed chamber and newer brand status are trade-offs, but it’s perfect for budget-conscious makers.

Best for Professionals: UltiMaker S6

The UltiMaker S6 excels in professional settings with its reliable dual-nozzle system and large build volume, but its high cost and purging inefficiencies make it less competitive against toolhead systems.

Best for Speed and Ease: Bambu Lab H2D

The Bambu Lab H2D is ideal for hobbyists prioritizing speed and user-friendliness, but its AMS purging creates waste, making it less efficient than toolhead systems for multi-material prints.

Best for Versatility: Snapmaker J1s

The Snapmaker J1s is a multi-purpose machine with IDEX capabilities, but its dual-nozzle mode suffers from purging waste, making it less efficient than toolhead systems for multi-filament tasks.

Conclusion

In 2025, toolhead systems like the Prusa XL and WonderMaker ZR Ultra 4 lead the multi-filament 3D printing space due to their efficiency, minimal waste, and scalability for complex projects. Dual-nozzle single-head systems, as seen in the UltiMaker S6 and Bambu Lab H2D, are more compact and affordable but lag in efficiency due to purging and oozing issues. The Snapmake JS1 with IDEX capabilities can also print efficient but is not enough stable. Choose based on your budget, project complexity, and material needs: toolhead systems for advanced multi-material printing, dual-nozzle systems for simpler dual-color tasks, or the Bambu Lab H2D for speed-focused hobbyists.Note: Prices and specifications are based on data as of July 28, 2025, and may vary. Check manufacturer websites for the latest details.