The Original Prusa MK4S is a fast, high-quality 3D printer kit built on the MK4 platform, featuring a 360° cooling system for steep overhangs, a high-flow Bondtech nozzle for 50% faster printing, and a Loadcell sensor for precise auto bed calibration. With a 250×210×220 mm build volume, it supports a wide range of materials, including carbon-filled composites. UL GREENGUARD certified, it suits beginners, professionals, educators, and advanced users alike, offering easy setup, consistent performance, remote monitoring, and expandability for various applications.
What is the print quality and performance of the Original Prusa MK4S FDM 3D printer kit?
The Original Prusa MK4S Kit offers 0.05–0.30 mm layer heights for both detailed and fast prints, earning top marks from TechRadar and CNET for its print quality.
CT scans show the MK4S has superior dimensional accuracy, with most surfaces staying within ±0.20 mm of design specs and only minor areas deviating up to ±0.40 mm.
The 0.4 mm brass CHT Prusa Nozzle boosts PLA flow to 24 mm³/s — a 50% gain over the previous model and higher than Bambu Lab’s 21 mm³/s with their filament and 12 mm³/s with third-party materials.
The enhanced flow lets the MK4S print a Benchy in 14 minutes and a Bonkers Benchy in 8, with no loss in quality.
The MK4S prints PETG 44% faster without sacrificing strength, thanks to optimized firmware and hardware that ensure consistent quality across materials.
The MK4S’s 360° cooling system uses a high-pressure turbine to direct airflow around the nozzle, enabling overhangs up to 75° without supports.
The Loadcell sensor ensures perfect first layers with automatic Z-height calibration. The direct drive Nextruder, 0.9° X/Y stepper motors, and Trinamic 2130 drivers eliminate faceting and keep prints quiet.
Which filaments can you use with the Original Prusa MK4S 3D Printer kit?
The MK4S Kit supports 14+ filament types, including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, nylon, and carbon-filled composites. Its direct drive Nextruder (10:1 gear ratio) and 290°C nozzle handle tough materials like TPU, while the 360° cooling system ensures strong performance across all.
The MK4S Kit prints advanced materials like PC, PP, CPE, and PVB without modification, thanks to its 290°C nozzle and 120°C bed. With the optional enclosure, it supports engineering-grade filaments like ABS, ASA, HIPS, and nylon by maintaining stable temperatures and reducing warping.
The MK4S Kit works seamlessly with both Prusament and third-party filaments, delivering high performance without needing specialized high-speed materials.
The optional MMU3 add-on allows the MK4S Kit to automatically switch between up to five 1.75 mm filaments for multi-color or multi-material prints using a 0.4 mm nozzle, with cold-pull extraction and PTFE tube feeding.
The MK4S Kit combines Nextruder precision, a high-flow nozzle, and adaptive cooling for versatility across basic to advanced 3D printing materials.
What is the build volume of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S Kit offers a 250 × 210 × 220 mm (9.84 × 8.3 × 8.6 in) build volume, totaling 11,550 cm³ of print space.
The MK4S Kit balances a compact 500 × 550 × 400 mm (19.6 × 21.6 × 15.7 in) footprint with enough capacity for medium projects. Weighing 7 kg, it fits easily in home, office, or workshop setups.
What is the difference between the Prusa MK4S and Prusa Core One, Bambu Lab X1 Carbon, Bambu Lab P1S, Bambu Lab A1?
Prusa MK4S — open-frame, precision-first bedslinger with load-cell first-layer, 360° cooling + high-flow nozzle, 120 °C bed, and fully offline/open-source operation; great dimensional accuracy and easy serviceability, with an optional enclosure for ABS/ASA/PC/PA.
In contrast:
Prusa CORE One — wins on CoreXY speed and a controlled 55 °C chamber (better dimensional stability, 250×220×270 mm volume) plus a touch UI; loses on price/weight and simplicity versus MK4S.
Bambu Lab X1 Carbon — wins on automation/sensing (Micro LiDAR first-layer, built-in 1080p camera), enclosed 256³ build, and higher flow rate (~32 mm³/s); loses on offline-first openness and user-serviceability, and costs more than MK4S.
Bambu Lab P1S — wins on value + enclosed 256³ CoreXY with the same headline speed/flow as X1 Carbon; loses on a lower bed ceiling (100 °C vs 120 °C on MK4S), a simpler camera, offline-first openness and user-serviceability.
Bambu Lab A1 — wins on budget, ease, and speed in an open bedslinger form; loses a heated chamber, has lower flow rate (~28 mm³/s), and is not recommended for higher-temp engineering filaments.
3D Printer Model / Specification
Prusa MK4S
Prusa CORE One
Bambu Lab X1 Carbon
Bambu Lab P1S
Bambu Lab A1
Motion / Frame
Bedslinger; open
CoreXY; fully enclosed
CoreXY; enclosed
CoreXY; enclosed
Bedslinger; open
Build volume (mm)
250×210×220
250×220×270
256×256×256
256×256×256
256×256×256
Enclosure / Chamber
Open; optional enclosure
Active chamber to 55 °C
Enclosed (fan-regulated)
Enclosed
Open (no chamber)
Max nozzle (°C)
290
290
300
300
300
Max bed (°C)
120
120
120
100
100
Max flow (mm³/s)
High-flow nozzle (n/a)
High-flow nozzle (n/a)
32
32
28
Sensors / Camera
Load-cell first layer; filament; — (no built-in cam)
Load-cell; dual filament; door; optional cam
Micro LiDAR; door; 1080p cam
Filament; 720p timelapse
Filament + tangle; up to 1080p timelapse
Materials
PLA/PETG/TPU; ABS/ASA/PC/PA with enclosure
PLA/PETG (door closed); ABS/ASA/PC/PA via chamber
PLA/PETG/TPU/PA/PC
PLA/PETG/TPU/ABS/ASA; PA/PC “capable”
PLA/PETG/TPU/PVA; ABS/ASA/PC/PA, CF/GF not recommended
Price
$1000+
$1200+
$800+
$550+
$350+
Bottom-Line: pick Prusa MK4S if you want an accurate, offline-first, open, easily serviceable printer that can be enclosed when needed; choose PrusaCORE One for CoreXY + controlled-chamber work, Bambu Lab X1 Carbon for maximum automation/QA, Bambu Lab P1S for enclosed speed at strong value, and Bambu Lab A1 for PLA/PETG/TPU on a tight budget.
What printer controls are available on the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit provides 5 primary control elements for printer operation and navigation including physical control elements, display interface, and touch control system.
Physical control elements
The MK4S Kit has two physical controls: a rotary knob for menu navigation and selection, and a reset button below it that acts as an emergency stop, halting all operations like a power cycle.
Display interface
The MK4S Kit uses a 3.5-inch color touchscreen (xLCD) as its main interface, showing menus, G-code thumbnails, QR codes, and print progress. It includes an injection-molded bezel, replacing the older 3D-printed version.
Touch control system
Touchscreen control must be enabled via Settings → User Interface → Touch. Once activated, it supports tapping and swiping for menu navigation, though some functions — like temperature and axis controls — still require the knob.
Touch control limitations and troubleshooting:
Manual temperature adjustment requires rotary knob control
Axis movement functions operate exclusively through knob interface
Touch Sig Workaround setting available for touch responsiveness issues
The MK4S Kit offers dual control via rotary knob and touchscreen, combining accessibility with precise operation.
What connectivity options are available on the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S Kit supports 3 connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Files can be transferred offline via USB or remotely over a network. Wi-Fi setup is simplified with NFC — just tap a smartphone to connect, avoiding complex configurations.
For secure environments, the MK4S Kit features a removable Wi-Fi module that can be detached without impacting printer operation.
Remote control is available via Prusa Connect and the Prusa app (iOS/Android), allowing users to start prints, monitor progress, and receive notifications from anywhere.
The MK4S Kit supports direct printing from Printables.com via the app, no computer needed. It works fully online or offline, with all network features optional and no subscriptions required — ideal for both maker spaces and secure environments.
What software is offered with the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S Kit includes PrusaSlicer, an open-source slicer with 180+ pre-verified printer and material profiles, removing the need for manual calibration. Built on Slic3r, it supports third-party filaments and offers speed-optimized profiles (0.25 and 0.28 mm) to leverage the high-flow nozzle.
Beyond slicing, the MK4S Kit integrates with Prusa Connect and the Prusa app (iOS/Android) for remote control — start prints from Printables.com, track progress, and get push notifications.
Firmware updates can be installed via USB, Prusa Connect, or the Prusa app. The open-source code allows security review, and all features work without subscriptions. Network use is optional, and the removable Wi-Fi module supports secure offline operation.
What is the design and build quality of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
What is the design and form factor of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S Kit features an open-frame i3-style bedslinger design with a 250 × 210 × 220 mm build volume. It measures 500 × 550 × 400 mm, weighs 7.5 kg, and has an exposed aluminum frame in Prusa’s black and orange color scheme.
The MK4S Kit uses injection-molded plastic for parts like display bezels, while brackets and other components are 3D-printed in-house by Prusa.
Full list of components:
Filament spool
Frame
Z-axis - vertical, consists of threaded and smooth rods, moves the Nextruder up and down
Nextruder
X-axis stepper motor - moves the Nextruder left and right
Electronics box - housing for the xBuddy board. Ethernet and Wi-Fi ports are accessible from the rear
Z-axis stepper motor - one of two total. Z-axis motors move the Nextruder up and down
LCD - used for control and configuration of the printer
Spoolholder
X-axis - a general name for the entire horizontal assembly consisting of two smooth rods, an X-axis motor, a belt and plastic parts The Nextruder moves along the X-axis from left to right
Power supply unit
Print sheet - held in place with strong magnets embedded in the heatbed
Heatbed - proven Prusa MK52 heatbed
USB port and USB drive - use the USB drive to print G-Codes (print files) and flash firmware
Rotary knob - main control device with the Reset button directly below it
What is the motion system of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S Kit uses a Cartesian motion system with hardened steel rods and an X-axis tensioning system for motor and belt adjustment. It features new-generation stepper motors and includes input shaper and pressure advance for precise, high print speed over 300 mm/s.
Motion system specifications:
Hardened steel smooth rods for all axes
Prusa-supplied stepper motors (updated from previous models)
Belt-driven axes with manual tensioners
Input shaper and pressure advance technology
What is the noise level of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D printer kit operates at 40–50 dB, mainly from cooling fans. An enclosure lowers noise to 30–40 dB. Though it lacks a silent mode, it runs quieter than previous models, with user reports noting similar or lower noise than the MK3S in normal mode.
What are the build platform specifications of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D Printer Kit features a magnetic heated bed with removable PEI-coated steel sheets, heating up to 120 °C. It offers a 250 × 210 × 220 mm build area. The magnetic system allows easy sheet swaps and part removal. A Smooth PEI sheet is included, with Satin and Textured sheets sold separately.
What is the hotend and extruder system of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D printer kit uses the Nextruder from the Prusa XL, featuring a load cell for auto Z alignment and a 290 °C hotend for materials like PLA, PETG, ASA, TPU, and carbon-filled filaments. Nozzles from 0.25–0.8 mm can be swapped tool-free via two thumbscrews. A 270° cooling system allows 75° overhangs without supports.
Nextruder system features:
Direct-drive extruder with load cell sensor
290°C maximum hotend temperature
Quick-swap nozzles (0.25–0.8 mm diameter range)
270° wraparound part cooling system
How does the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit handle filament storage and feeding?
Filament mounts on a frame-mounted reel holder of the MK4S with a 3D-printed guide to prevent unspooling. The semi-automated loading system detects and feeds filament into the Nextruder. Stuck filament detection alerts users to feed issues. With the optional MMU3, PTFE tubes and buffers manage multi-material filament flow.
What is the mainboard of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D printer kit runs on a 32-bit xBuddy mainboard with an STM32 microcontroller, offering USB, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi connectivity. It includes overcurrent protection (15 A limit), power panic for print recovery, and four thermistors for hotend, heatbreak, bed, and ambient temperature monitoring.
What are the power supply specifications of the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D printer kit uses a 24 V DC, 240 W power supply delivering up to 10 A, protected by an F8AH250V fuse. It’s compatible with MK3 through MK4S models and powers all components — bed, hotend, motors, and electronics — during printing.
What comes included in the box with the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The Original Prusa MK4S kit version package includes:
1x Original Prusa MK4S kit (unassembled)
1x Smooth PEI Print Sheet
2x 25g Prusament Sample
1x Toolset: Uni-wrench, 13-16 wrench, Nose pliers, Allen and torx keys
1x 3D Printing Handbook
1x USB drive with sample prints (G-codes)
Alcohol-saturated wipes
1x Acupuncture needle
1x Spoolholder
1x Prusa lubricant for bearings
1x Power Cable (US)
Access to Online Assembly Manual
The MK4S package in the kit form includes everything needed to print or assemble. Each unit passes a quality check, with a checklist in the box. The kit comes with assembly tools and two 25 g filament samples; the assembled version includes a 1 kg spool of Prusament PLA Galaxy Black and a factory test print. Both versions feature a Smooth PEI sheet and a USB drive with sample models.
Please Note: Package contents are determined by the manufacturer and may change without notice. To confirm the current items included with this product, please contact a Top3DShop sales representative before placing your order.
What upgrades and accessories are available for the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit supports a range of accessories (MMU3, enclosure, HEPA filtration system, GPIO board, accelerometer, etc.) that extend its capabilities beyond standard operation.
Accessory
Description
Function
Target User
Price (USD)
MMU3 (Multi Material Upgrade)
Add-on that allows printing with up to 5 colors/materials
Enables multi-color and multi-material printing with 25-35 second filament changes and up to 3x more efficient waste management
Users printing technical materials or needing temperature stability
$400+
Advanced Filtration System
HEPA filter add-on for the Enclosure
Filters ultra-fine particles during printing
Users concerned about emissions
$120+
GPIO Board
Expansion board for controlling external electronics
Allows custom modifications and external device control via G-code
Makers, modders, tinkerers
$30+
Accelerometer
Sensor for printer tuning
Optimizes printer performance after extensive modifications
Advanced modders who've modified the Nextruder
$20+
Additional print sheets
Textured or Satin PEI sheets
Optimized adhesion for different materials
All users needing specialized bed surfaces
$50+
Replacement nozzles
Various sizes (0.25mm, 0.6mm, 0.8mm)
Different extrusion widths for detail work or faster printing
All users based on application needs
$30+
The MMU3 upgrade enables the MK4S to print with up to five filaments in one job, switching materials in 25–35 seconds and generating up to three times less waste than competing systems. For best results, Prusa recommends using the standard nozzle (included) instead of the high-flow nozzle to minimize waste during color changes.
The Original Prusa Enclosure creates a stable environment for printing materials like ABS, ASA, HIPS, and nylon. While the MK4S handles PLA, PETG, and TPU without it, the enclosure prevents warping, traps odors, and reduces noise.
The enclosure supports add-ons like a HEPA filtration system, LED lighting, a mechanical lock, and fire suppression for improved safety and usability.
Prusa offers a GPIO board for users who want to customize their MK4S. It connects to the mainboard and allows control of external devices — like lights, cameras, or servos — via G-code commands.
The accelerometer add-on enables advanced tuning, especially useful for heavily modified Nextruder setups.
With support for E3D V6 components (via adapter) and Prusa’s open-source approach, the MK4S allows extensive customization while retaining manufacturer support.
What maintenance does the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit require?
The Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit requires 12+ maintenance procedures to maintain optimal print quality and prevent mechanical failures.
The full manual: https://help.prusa3d.com/product/mk4s
Here's a breakdown of the maintenance requirements organized by frequency:
Frequent maintenance (before every print):
Printer cleaning: Remove debris including filament pieces, dust, scraps, and broken supports from printer components and under the heatbed using brush, small broom, or vacuum.
Hotend cleaning: Heat nozzle to 250°C for 3-5 minutes to soften filament residue, then use brass brush to clear plastic from nozzle and heaterblock. Allow 10-minute cooldown before handling.
Flexible steel sheet cleaning: Clean steel sheets with 90% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) on paper towel while bed is cold, or wash with warm water and dish soap using soft sponge. Never use acetone on Textured or Satin sheets, and avoid IPA on PA Nylon sheets.
Sporadic maintenance (every 200 hours):
Axes inspection: Check smooth rods for scratches by running fingers along length while rotating. Clean rods with paper towel and apply Prusa Lubricant. Remove bearings only if axis movement remains rough after cleaning and lubrication.
Belt system check: Remove debris from belt pulleys and belts. Verify set screws on belt pulleys are secured against motor shaft flat surfaces. Test belt tension - both belts should produce low bass note when plucked.
Fan maintenance: Clean dust from fans using compressed air spray (holding can upright). Remove plastic threads with tweezers. Check for RPM errors indicating blockages.
Nextruder cleaning: Access extruder by lifting Idler Nut and moving Idler Shaft. Clear filament debris from primary gear grooves using compressed air, brass brush, or toothpick through side access hole.
Belt tension adjustment: Tighten belts to prevent layer shifting, ghosting, and print shape irregularities.
Firmware updates: Flash firmware updates via USB flash drive when available.
Annual maintenance (every 600-800 hours):
Electronics inspection: Check and reconnect electrical connectors on xBuddy board, Loveboard, heatbed, PSU, and xLCD. Ensure screw-attached connectors are fully tightened and Molex connectors properly seated with latches engaged.
Essential maintenance tools
The maintenance procedures require Allen keys, needle-nose pliers, 90% IPA, paper towels, compressed air (canned air held upright), brass brush for heaterblock cleaning, and Prusa Lubricant (Mogul LV-2-EP lithium grease) for smooth rods and linear bearings.
When using Input Shaper, the 200-hour maintenance interval is especially important due to increased mechanical stress from higher accelerations.
What support and warranty come with the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit?
The MK4S 3D printer kit comes with 24/7 live chat support from Prusa Research, available in seven languages. All owners — regardless of warranty status or purchase source — receive personalized help, with technicians using customer-provided photos and videos for efficient troubleshooting.
MK4S warranty terms vary by region and product type. EU consumers (including those in Lichtenstein, Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland) get 2 years; EU businesses and all others receive 1 year. The kit version covers parts but not assembly issues or service costs, while the assembled version covers both. Optional 1- or 2-year extensions are available at purchase. Claims require the invoice number, serial number, and photo or video proof. Warranty periods pause during repairs and resume after service.
Prusa Research offers extensive self-help resources for MK4S users, including a detailed Knowledge Base, tutorial videos, and QR-coded error messages linking to specific guides. Forums in seven languages connect users with Prusa staff and the community. Support continues after the warranty ends, with users covering only parts and shipping — reflecting Prusa’s long-term commitment to its products.
Buying the MK4S from Top3DShop adds support beyond Prusa’s factory service. Top3DShop offers pre-purchase guidance, shipping updates, and help with setup or basic troubleshooting. For complex issues, customers are referred to Prusa’s specialized team — ensuring full support from purchase through long-term use.
Full up-to-date warranty terms are available on the manufacturer's website: https://help.prusa3d.com/article/warranty_2288
How much does the Original Prusa MK4S 3D printer kit cost?
The Original Prusa MK4S kit offers strong value for a reliable, high-quality European-made printer. It includes CT-verified accuracy, 360° cooling for 75° overhangs, and Loadcell auto-calibration. The assembled version costs ~37% more, adding factory calibration, testing, and a 1 kg spool of Prusament PLA (vs. two 25 g samples). Both versions feature a high-flow nozzle with 50% more output than the MK4, UL GREENGUARD Certification, and 24/7 support. Optional upgrades like the MMU3 (five-color printing) and Enclosure (for technical materials) expand its capabilities.
Cooling fan
High-performance turbine, 360° cooling system
Calibration
Automatic, Mesh Bed Leveling (only on print area)
Connectivity
NFC receiver, optional ESP Wi-Fi module (delivered with the printer)
Energy consumption
PLA settings: 80W / ABS settings: 120W
Extruder
Nextruder, Direct Drive, E3D V6 compatible (with adapter)
Filament diameter
1.75 mm
LCD screen
3.5″ graphic 65k color screen
Mainboard
Custom 32-bit xBuddy electronics with STM32
Manufacturer
Prusa Research
Manufacturer country
Czech Republic
Max. heated bed temperature
120 °C / 248 °F
Max. nozzle temperature
290 °C / 554 °F
Nozzle
High-flow Prusa Nozzle brass CHT - 0.4 mm
Print surface
Magnetic heatbed with removable PEI spring steel sheets
Software
PrusaSlicer
Stepper drivers
Trinamic 2130
Supported materials
PLA, PETG, Flex, PVA, PC, PP, CPE, PVB and when using the Original Prusa Enclosure with filtration add-on ABS, ASA, HIPS, PA
Advanced sensors
Filament sensor, Loadcell sensor, Power panic, 4 high-precision thermistors (genuine Semitec) + fan motors RPM monitoring
Build volume
250 x 210 x 220 mm
Drive system
Nextruder Planetary Gear System, 10:1 gearbox ratio
Extruder electronics
Custom breakout board for connecting fans, thermistors and other parts
Filament path
Aluminum heatsink, all-metal hotend
Print medium
USB drive / LAN / internet via Prusa Connect
Printer dimensions (without spool)
7 kg, 500×550×400 mm; 19.6×21.6×15.7 in (X×Y×Z)
Product name
Original Prusa MK4S 3D Printer kit
PSU
240W, custom made by Delta with Power Panic HW
Stepper Motors
Precise 0.9° X,Y stepper motors (prevents VFA)
Layer height
0.05-0.30 mm
Technology
FDM
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