The Original Prusa Mini+ is a compact, entry-level FFF 3D printer with a 180 × 180 × 180 mm build volume, offering pro-quality prints at a budget-friendly price. It features a custom 32-bit Buddy board, silent Trinamic drivers, Input Shaper, and Pressure Advance for fast, high-quality results. With auto bed leveling via SuperPINDA, removable magnetic sheets, and Ethernet or optional Wi-Fi connectivity, it’s easy to use and maintain. Prusa Connect enables remote monitoring, file uploads, and firmware updates. Ideal for beginners and experts alike, it supports materials like PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, and flexibles, thanks to its 280 °C nozzle and 100 °C heatbed. Praised for its reliability and value, it was Wirecutter’s “Best 3D Printer” from 2021–2023. While it has fewer features than the MK4, MK3, or XL, it retains Prusa’s open-source design and build quality.
What are the key differences between the Original Prusa MINI+ and MINI 3D printer models?
The Original Prusa MINI+ upgrades the MINI with a SuperPINDA sensor, stronger hardware, an improved display, and firmware features like Input Shaping for faster prints.
What is the print quality and performance of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa Mini+ offers 0.05–0.25 mm layer heights for detailed or fast prints. Its 32-bit board runs Input Shaper and Pressure Advance, enabling clean, precise results at higher speeds.
The printer’s Mesh Bed Leveling maps surface irregularities before each print, ensuring accurate first layers.
The Original Prusa Mini+ delivers sharp, accurate prints through its sturdy design. Features include sensorless homing, silent Trinamic 2209 drivers, a 3:1 Bowden extruder, and a SuperPINDA probe for stable calibration, reducing layer lines and boosting structural accuracy.
The Original Prusa Mini+ uses removable steel sheets for different finishes. The smooth PEI sheet gives glossy bottoms, the textured sheet adds matte finish and adhesion, and the satin sheet provides a balanced semi-gloss. Users can choose surfaces based on material and finish needs.
Tests show the Original Prusa Mini+ handles PETG well, with minimal stringing and clean overhangs.
Example: A Raspberry Pi microscope stand printed in Prusament PETG (0.15 mm layer, 10% infill) took 6h 50m. The 60 × 60 × 50 mm part showed ±0.175 mm accuracy, minor surface waviness, but sufficient precision for prototypes and assemblies.
What are the key advantages of the Original Prusa MINI+'s 32-bit Buddy board compared to traditional 8-bit printer controllers?
The MINI+ uses a 32-bit Buddy board with STM32, offering more power than 8-bit controllers. It enables Input Shaper, Pressure Advance, silent Trinamic 2209 drivers, Ethernet/Wi-Fi, OTA updates, real-time calculations, and advanced safety features.
Which filaments can you use with the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ can print over 14 filament types including PLA, PETG, ASA, ABS, PC, Nylon, Flex, and composites like Woodfill, all in 1.75 mm diameter, supported by a 280 °C nozzle and 100 °C heated bed.
PLA Print Samples:
Multi-material test: A construction vehicle model used six filaments—PLA (red, black), Flex (wheels), ABS (gray), PETG (white), and Z-glass (translucent). The MINI+ handled the mix well, showing strong compatibility and precision, even with flexible materials.
The Original Prusa Mini+ prints technical materials like Nylon and PC at 250–280 °C. For abrasive composites, a hardened steel nozzle is recommended. Its Bowden setup handles flexibles down to 94A hardness, though very soft types can be challenging.
The MINI+ supports both Prusament and third-party filaments, with PrusaSlicer profiles for easy setup. Its magnetic sheets expand compatibility: smooth PEI for PLA, textured for PETG/ASA/ABS, and satin for general use.
The MINI+ boosts material compatibility with an all-metal hotend for high temps, a SuperPINDA probe for consistent first layers, and Mesh Bed Leveling for better adhesion. Its open-source design also supports upgrades like titanium heatbreaks, specialty hotends, and nozzles for exotic filaments.
What is the build volume of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa Mini+ has a 180 × 180 × 180 mm build volume, balancing compact size with capacity. It can print small parts, medium prototypes, assembled mechanisms, figurines, and household or technical items in one go.
What is the difference between the Prusa Mini+, Bambu Lab A1 Mini, Creality Ender 3 S1, Ender 3 V3 SE, Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro?
Printer Model
Build Volume (mm)
Build Volume (L)
Price (USD)
Original Prusa Mini+
180 x 180 x 180
5.83
$460+
Creality Ender 3 S1
220 x 220 x 270
13.07
$190+
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE
220 x 220 x 250
12.10
$220+
Bambu Lab A1 Mini
180 x 180 x 180
5.8
$250+
FlashForge Adventurer 5M Pro
220 x 220 x 220
10.65
$450+
Buy the Original Prusa Mini+ ($460+) if you value long-term reliability, proven community support, and an open ecosystem — its 180×180×180 mm build volume and 280 °C nozzle make it ideal as your first 3D printer.
Buy the Bambu Lab A1 Mini ($250+) if you want cutting-edge speed, a direct-drive extruder, and advanced sensors — its 180×180×180 mm volume matches the Prusa, but its closed ecosystem and reliance on Bambu software trade openness for convenience and automation.
Buy the FlashForge Adventurer 5M Pro ($449+) if you need an enclosed, high-speed CoreXY printer with safety features — its 220×220×220 mm build volume, 280 °C nozzle, 600 mm/s print speed, HEPA + carbon filtration, open-source firmware, and remote monitoring make it a strong choice for professional-level 3D printing. The only trade-off is the support team is based in China.
Consider the Creality Ender 3 S1 ($190+) or Ender 3 V3 SE ($220+) if you’re on a budget and need maximum build volume (220×220×270 mm / 220×220×250 mm) at half the cost of the Mini, but expect to spend more time on fine-tuning the printer and troubleshooting.
What printer controls are available on the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ features two physical controls — a rotary encoder knob for menu navigation and selection on its 2.8" color LCD, plus a reset button for hard resets — enabling full offline operation alongside USB, Ethernet, and optional Wi-Fi connectivity.
Primary Control Interface
The Original Prusa MINI+ uses two physical controls with a 2.8" color LCD:
Control Knob (Rotary Encoder): Rotates to scroll menus, press to select; manages all navigation and settings.
Reset Button: Next to the knob; performs a hard reset to stop prints or recover from errors.
The controls allow full offline use, while USB, Ethernet, and optional Wi-Fi enable remote management.
What connectivity options are available on the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa Mini+ includes two connectivity options: a USB port for flash drive printing and an Ethernet RJ-45 port for wired networking.
The Ethernet connection uses DHCP for automatic setup and works with PrusaConnect, enabling remote status checks and control from any device on the local network.
With the optional ESP Wi-Fi module, the MINI+ connects to Prusa Connect for full remote management. Users can monitor progress, manage jobs, upload files, and update firmware from any device, turning the printer into a networked tool accessible from anywhere.
What software is offered with the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa Mini+ includes PrusaSlicer, an open-source slicer for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It provides tested print profiles for all supported materials, removing the need for manual setup.
PrusaSlicer offers an intuitive interface with color previews, model repair, custom supports, and multi-material tools. While Cura and other slicers work, PrusaSlicer is optimized with pre-set profiles for the MINI+.
The Original Prusa Mini+ runs custom 32-bit firmware with Input Shaper and Pressure Advance for faster, higher-quality prints. Updates are done via USB or OTA through Prusa Connect, which also enables remote monitoring, file management, and control via web browser with the optional Wi-Fi module.
The MINI+ supports OctoPrint via third-party setups, adding features like time-lapse recording and advanced remote monitoring. Together with PrusaSlicer and Prusa Connect, these tools expand the printer into a versatile, fully controlled production device.
How do you properly configure PrusaSlicer to work with the Original Prusa MINI+ during the initial setup?
To set up PrusaSlicer for the MINI+, run the Configuration Wizard (Menu → Configuration → Configuration Wizard). Select Prusa FFF as the source, then choose Prusa MINI & MINI+ with the nozzle size (default 0.4 mm). Full guide: https://help.prusa3d.com/article/configuration-wizard_1754
What is the design and build quality of the Original Prusa MINI+?
What is the design and form factor of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ features a compact, open-frame design built on rigid aluminum extrusions with dimensions of 380 × 330 × 380 mm and a 180 × 180 × 180 mm build volume, weighing approximately 4.5 kg, optimized for strength, easy maintenance, and a desktop footprint.
Physical Specs
Dimensions: 380 × 330 × 380 mm (15" × 13" × 15")
Weight: 4.5 kg (~10 lbs)
Build volume: 180 × 180 × 180 mm (7" cube)
Semi-assembled box: 485 × 265 × 405 mm, 11 kg
Kit box: 430 × 230 × 242 mm, 6 kg
Design Features
Frame: Aluminum extrusion + 3D printed parts
Display: 2.8" color LCD with G-Code preview
Form: Compact desktop footprint
Colors: Black-orange or all black
Access: Open-frame for easy maintenance
The single-arm design simplifies construction, while aluminum extrusions and 3D printed parts balance weight and function. Its compact size makes it ideal for printer farms.
What is the motion system of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ uses a Cartesian system with the extruder on the X-axis and the bed moving in Y, reducing moving mass for better print quality.
Motion System
Cartesian XYZ with moving bed
Max speed: 200+ mm/s
Sensorless homing (X, Y)
Silent Trinamic 2209 drivers
GT2 belts with 16-tooth pulleys
Motors
Supplier: LDO Motors
Type: Integrated cables
Step angle: 1.8°
Y-axis: Dedicated replacement part
E-axis: Extruder-specific motor
Input Shaper and Pressure Advance run natively, allowing faster prints without quality loss. A 3:1 geared Bowden extruder lightens the X-axis for greater stability.
What is the noise level of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Prusa MINI+ runs quietly with Trinamic 2209 drivers and adjustable volume. Noise comes mainly from fans at higher speeds but is still lower than many competitors, including the MK3S.
Noise Characteristics
Silent Trinamic 2209 drivers
Four sound modes: Loud, Once, Silent, Assist
Volume adjustable 0–11 (default 5)
Reported quieter than MK3S
Operational Noise
Generally quiet in use
Quieter than many competitors
Fans are main noise source
Noise rises with faster speeds
Users note the MINI+ runs quietly, with fans as the main noise source. Noise rises during fast moves but stays manageable for desk-side use.
What are the build platform specifications of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The MINI+ has a heated aluminum bed with magnetic spring steel sheets for easy print removal and reliable first layers.
Build Platform
Volume: 180 × 180 × 180 mm
Aluminum heated bed with magnetic base
Smooth, textured, and satin steel sheets
Max temp: 100 °C
Cold corners compensation
Leveling & Calibration
SuperPINDA probe with Mesh Bed Leveling
Creates height map before each print
Sensorless homing
Even temperature across surface
Removable steel sheets let users flex the surface to release prints. The SuperPINDA probe, with temperature compensation, maps the bed for consistent first layers.
What is the hotend and extruder system of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The MINI+ uses a Bowden extruder with 3:1 gearing for precise filament control and reduced X-axis weight.
Extruder Specs
Bowden system, 3:1 gearing
Filament: 1.75 mm
Nozzle: 0.4 mm standard, other sizes supported
Max temp: 280 °C
All-metal E3D-style hotend
Hotend Components
Heater: 40W 24V with Molex connector
Thermistor: E3D type
Heat break: Standard with PTFE tube
PTFE: 4 × 2 × 43.4 mm tube
Nozzles: 0.4 mm standard, 0.6 mm+ available
How does the Original Prusa MINI+ handle filament storage and feeding?
The Original Prusa MINI+ handles filament with a basic rear or side spool holder for 1 kg spools feeding through a 275 mm PTFE Bowden tube, with optional upgrades like a filament runout sensor and the MINI Base accessory for integrated spool and PSU storage.
Standard Filament System
Basic spool holder for 1 kg spools (20 cm × 9 cm)
Positioned behind or right of printer
PTFE Bowden tube guides filament
Optional Upgrades
Filament runout sensor ($20)
Optional ESP Wi-Fi module
Third-party multi-spool storage
MINI Base accessory for integrated spool & PSU storage
Feeding Specs
Bowden tube: 275 mm, 4 mm OD / 2 mm ID
Hardware: Swivel nuts + pressed olive parts
Direct feed path from rear-mounted spool
The MINI Base accessory stores the spool and power supply under the printer, saving desk space by trading width for height.
What is the mainboard of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The MINI+ runs on a custom 32-bit Buddy board with an ARM STM32F407 chipset, enabling advanced 3D printing features.
Mainboard Specs
Buddy 32-bit board
ARM STM32F407 processor
Silent Trinamic 2209 drivers
Supports Input Shaper & Pressure Advance
Ethernet + USB ports
Advanced Features
Executes Input Shaper & Pressure Advance natively
Prusa Connect integration
Safety: 3 thermistors + fan RPM sensors
High-precision temp monitoring
Control Interface
2.8" 65k color LCD
Control wheel navigation
G-Code preview
Intuitive menu with sound modes
The Buddy board supports OTA firmware updates, web-based remote management, and advanced safety monitoring, while still allowing full offline use.
What are the power supply specifications of the Original Prusa MINI+?
The MINI+ uses an external 24V, 150W power supply compatible with global voltages for safe, efficient operation.
Power Supply Specs
Output: 24V DC, 150W, ~6.25A max
External brick-style PSU
Made by Delta or Mean Well (region dependent)
Power Use
Max: 150W
Normal: Lower than max
Peak: During bed/nozzle heating
Idle: Minimal draw
Safety & Reliability
Quality Delta/Mean Well units
In-house tested
Built-in thermal protection
Universal voltage support
The 150W PSU powers all functions, supporting a 100 °C bed and 280 °C hotend. Power use is low compared to household appliances and works well with UPS backup systems.
What are the space requirements for the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ requires a compact footprint of 380 × 330 × 380 mm with about 35 × 45 cm of operational space and 45 cm height clearance, accommodating standard 1 kg spools behind or beside it, while accessories like the MINI Base optimize space by storing spools and the power supply underneath.
Footprint
Printer: 380 × 330 × 380 mm
Operational space: ~35 × 45 cm
Height clearance: 45 cm incl. cables
Fits desktops and shelves
Filament Storage
Standard 1 kg spools: 20 × 9 cm, placed behind/side
MINI Base stores spool below printer, saving space
Clearance & Access
PTFE tube/cables arch overhead; may touch at full Z-height
Open design allows easy maintenance
Compact size supports multi-printer farms
Environment
Open design = natural airflow
Needs stable room temperature
Place on level, stable surface
Foam/isolation feet reduce vibration
The MINI Base improves space efficiency by storing the spool and power supply under the printer, shifting horizontal space needs into vertical clearance without enlarging the footprint.
What comes included in the box with Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa Mini+ package includes:
MINI+ printer (semi-assembled or kit)
Smooth PEI sheet
External 160W PSU + power cable
Filament holder with bearings
USB flash drive (firmware + samples)
2× Prusament PLA samples (25g each)
Allen wrench set
Zip ties
Instruction booklet
Gummy bears
The MINI+ comes in two versions: a full kit for hands-on assembly with digital guides, or a semi-assembled model with access to Prusa’s beginner course. Both include the same parts and Smooth PEI sheet (textured and satin sold separately). Every unit is fully tested before shipping for reliable performance.
Note: Package contents are set by the manufacturer and may change without notice. Confirm included items with a sales representative before ordering.
What upgrades and accessories are available for the Original Prusa MINI+?
The Original Prusa MINI+ offers a variety of official upgrades and accessories — including an enclosure for temperature and noise control, an ESP Wi-Fi module for remote management, filament sensor and hardened steel nozzle for advanced printing, plus textured and satin PEI sheets for material-specific adhesion — while also supporting popular third-party mods like the Bondtech IFS extruder and user-designed organization tools.
Accessory
Function
Intended Users
Compatibility
Price
ESP Wi-Fi Module
Adds wireless control via Prusa Connect
Remote operation
All MINI+ models
$10+
Original Prusa Mini Enclosure
Controls temperature, reduces noise/fumes
ABS/ASA, shared spaces
All MINI+ models
$160+
Textured Powder-coated PEI Sheet
Matte finish, better adhesion for PETG/ASA/ABS
Technical materials
All MINI+ models
$30+
Satin Powder-coated PEI Sheet
Semi-gloss finish, balanced adhesion
General use
All MINI+ models
$30+
Filament Sensor
Pauses when filament runs out
Long/production prints
All MINI+ models
$20+
Hardened Steel Nozzle
For abrasive composites (carbon fiber, metal)
Advanced materials
All MINI+ models
$20+
Advanced Filtration System
HEPA + carbon filters for enclosure
Enclosed environments
Requires MINI Enclosure
$80+
Enclosure
The most impactful upgrade for the MINI+ is the official enclosure. Built with an aluminum frame, acrylic panels, and a magnetic door, it stabilizes print temperatures for materials like ABS and ASA, while also reducing noise and containing fumes.
HEPA and Carbon Filtration
For advanced environmental control, the enclosure supports add-ons such as HEPA and carbon filtration, LED lighting, a door lock, and fire suppression.
Wi-Fi Module
The ESP Wi-Fi module adds wireless connectivity to Prusa Connect for remote print management.
Filament Sensor
The optional Filament Sensor pauses prints when filament runs out, allowing spool changes without failure.
Print Sheets
Additional spring steel sheets in textured or satin finishes offer surface options tailored to different materials and finish needs.
Bondtech IFS extruder
The open-source Prusa Mini+ has a strong user community sharing modifications. A popular upgrade is the Bondtech IFS extruder, which replaces the Bowden system with direct drive for better flexible filament handling.
Community Mods
Users have designed printable cable management tools, spool holders with filament buffers, and dry box mods for moisture protection. Prusa also provides a tutorial for organizing the MINI+ with a custom printed base.
What maintenance does the Original Prusa MINI+ require?
Daily/As-Needed Maintenance
Print Sheet Cleaning
Clean the print sheet if adhesion issues occur.
Use IPA on smooth sheets, Windex on textured sheets.
Apply cleaner to a paper towel and wipe while sheet is cold.
Never use acetone on textured or satin powder-coated sheets as it creates microfractures
Every 200 Hours of Operation
Wipe debris from XYZ smooth rods.
Lubricate rods with Prusa or quality super lube.
With printer off, move X and Y axes to spread lubricant.
If movement is rough, remove and grease bearings.
Do not apply lubricant to trapezoid nut or Z-axis threaded lead screw
Every Few Hundred Hours Fan System Cleaning
Inspect and clean both cooling fans using compressed air
Hold fan blades stationary when using compressed air to prevent damage
Remove plastic strands and debris using tweezers
Extruder Gear Cleaning
Remove filament shavings with compressed air.
Use a brass brush or toothpick for gear teeth.
Clean through the extruder’s top window, rotating gear for full access.
If needed, apply minimal lubricant to drive teeth, avoiding filament contact areas.
PTFE Tube Inspection and Cleaning
Check all four PTFE tubes for wear or deformation.
Clean with compressed air; avoid solid wire to prevent damage.
Replace tubes if needed.
For external tubes: remove the first by hand, and the main Bowden tube with a size 10 spanner.
For internal tubes: inspect short tube in the extruder and hotend for proper compression.
For clogs or filament changes, perform cold pulls.
Use the acupuncture needle to clear the heated nozzle.
For external cleaning, heat nozzle 5 minutes, reset, then use a brass brush to remove buildup.
Avoid damaging thermistor and heater wires.
Replace nozzles worn from abrasive filaments or long use.
Firmware Updates
Regularly update for new features and improvements.
Flash firmware using a USB drive with the .bbf files.
Extract the ZIP file and copy the language-specific .bbf file to the USB drive
Storage Media Maintenance
Keep SD cards and USB drives in good condition for reliable transfers.
Replace if transfer issues arise.
All the required maintenance procedures with instructions are listed on the manufacturer's website: https://help.prusa3d.com/product/mini-2/printer-maintenance_247
What maintenance does the Original Prusa MINI+ require?
Daily/As-Needed Maintenance
Print Sheet Cleaning
Clean the print sheet if adhesion issues occur.
Use IPA on smooth sheets, Windex on textured sheets.
Apply cleaner to a paper towel and wipe while sheet is cold.
Never use acetone on textured or satin powder-coated sheets as it creates microfractures
Every 200 Hours of Operation
Wipe debris from XYZ smooth rods.
Lubricate rods with Prusa or quality super lube.
With printer off, move X and Y axes to spread lubricant.
If movement is rough, remove and grease bearings.
Do not apply lubricant to trapezoid nut or Z-axis threaded lead screw
Every Few Hundred Hours Fan System Cleaning
Inspect and clean both cooling fans using compressed air
Hold fan blades stationary when using compressed air to prevent damage
Remove plastic strands and debris using tweezers
Extruder Gear Cleaning
Remove filament shavings with compressed air.
Use a brass brush or toothpick for gear teeth.
Clean through the extruder’s top window, rotating gear for full access.
If needed, apply minimal lubricant to drive teeth, avoiding filament contact areas.
PTFE Tube Inspection and Cleaning
Check all four PTFE tubes for wear or deformation.
Clean with compressed air; avoid solid wire to prevent damage.
Replace tubes if needed.
For external tubes: remove the first by hand, and the main Bowden tube with a size 10 spanner.
For internal tubes: inspect short tube in the extruder and hotend for proper compression.
For clogs or filament changes, perform cold pulls.
Use the acupuncture needle to clear the heated nozzle.
For external cleaning, heat nozzle 5 minutes, reset, then use a brass brush to remove buildup.
Avoid damaging thermistor and heater wires.
Replace nozzles worn from abrasive filaments or long use.
Firmware Updates
Regularly update for new features and improvements.
Flash firmware using a USB drive with the .bbf files.
Extract the ZIP file and copy the language-specific .bbf file to the USB drive
Storage Media Maintenance
Keep SD cards and USB drives in good condition for reliable transfers.
Replace if transfer issues arise.
All the required maintenance procedures with instructions are listed on the manufacturer's website: https://help.prusa3d.com/product/mini-2/printer-maintenance_247
How much does the Original Prusa MINI+ cost?
The Prusa Mini+ base model costs $679.00 and includes a 32-bit motherboard, silent Trinamic drivers, and mesh bed leveling.
It comes in two versions:
Kit: ~7% cheaper.
Semi-assembled: Includes pre-built components and free access to Prusa’s beginner online course for faster setup.
Both offer the same performance, print quality, and reliability. For current pricing and accessories, contact our sales team.
Founded in 2013, we have integrated digital manufacturing in over 10,000 businesses. Today we are a team of 80+ 3D printing enthusiasts, geeks and entrepreneurs on a mission to make these technologies accessible to all.
Trusted integrator
In 2018, 3D Print Awards named us the best digital manufacturing integrator. We offer technology and operational consulting to capture growth and achieve excellence in strategy, manufacturing and distribution.
Expert customer service
Deep expertise in 3D printing, 3D scanning, 3D modelling, plastic casting, laser cutting and CNC milling. It comes from delivering 5,000+ projects at our digital manufacturing bureau. We know what we talk about.
Fast response time
93% of surveyed customers are satisfied with our customer service. Have a question, concern or feedback for us? Our support team is a quick chat or email away — 5 days a week, Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm PST.
