This guide covers the main steps from unboxing a Bambu Lab printer through calibration, filament loading and a first print. Exact steps vary by model, so keep the supplied manual available. Need a machine first? Browse Bambu Lab 3D printers at NEX3D.
Updated September 6, 2026. Product specifications, availability and CAD prices can change; linked product pages show current information.
1. Unbox and remove all shipping protection
Carefully remove the printer and accessories. Take out all foam, tape and shipping screws shown in the model-specific manual. Transport hardware left in place can cause startup or motion errors.
2. Power on and run guided setup
Turn the printer on and follow the model-specific setup prompts. Configure the supported network or local workflow you plan to use, and follow the manufacturer’s firmware-update instructions. Let any update finish completely before continuing.
3. Run auto-calibration
Run the printer’s guided calibration when prompted. Current Bambu Lab models automate key calibration steps; follow the on-screen instructions and the model-specific manual before starting a print.
4. Load your filament
Start with PLA for your first print. Feed the filament into the extruder (or AMS, if you have a Combo) and use the "load filament" function on the screen. Not sure which material to use? See our filament guide.
5. Install Bambu Studio and slice a model
Download Bambu Studio and, if needed, the Bambu Handy app. Open a model in Bambu Studio, select the exact printer and filament profile, review the settings, and slice the file. Use the manufacturer profile as a starting point.
6. Send your first print
Send the sliced file using a supported network or storage method for your model. Watch the first layer and stop the print if adhesion, extrusion or positioning is incorrect.
First-print tips & quick troubleshooting
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Print not sticking? Identify the exact build plate and follow its cleaning instructions. Check for surface contamination, shipping film where fitted, and a matching plate/material profile; different coatings can require different cleaning methods.
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Stringing or messy prints? Make sure your filament is dry and you selected the correct material profile.
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Error on startup? Re-check that every shipping screw and foam piece is removed.
- Keep spare nozzles, build plates and parts on hand as you scale up.
For model-specific questions, review the NEX3D Bambu Lab support information and contact options.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to set up a Bambu Lab printer? Setup time varies by model, firmware updates, network configuration and calibration. Follow the supplied checklist rather than planning around a fixed time.
Do I need to manually level the bed on a Bambu Lab printer? Current Bambu Lab models include guided automatic calibration. Follow the model-specific instructions if the printer requests an additional step.
Why won't my first print stick to the bed? Common checks include shipping film where fitted, surface contamination, the plate and filament profiles, and calibration. Follow the exact plate manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
What software does a Bambu Lab printer use? The free Bambu Studio (desktop) for slicing, and the Bambu Handy app for mobile control.
Model-specific instructions
Use the official Bambu Lab wiki for your printer’s unboxing, calibration, filament-loading and build-plate instructions.
