I've been hands-on with the Elegoo Centauri Carbon 2 Combo, and it immediately became my new go-to 3D printer.
The highly-anticipated device has finally broken cover with full details alongside a spec breakdown, and this multi-color machine is available to preorder now via the Elegoo store. First, the headlines: as suspected, the filament-based Elegoo Centauri Carbon 2 Combo can hold up to four reels at once and operates via an on-board Canvas feed system. It also boasts a 350 °C Nozzle to go with its enclosed chamber and auto-controlled 'Smart Grille' to moderate temperature, not to mention full-auto calibration, 31 sensors to monitor everything, and the ability to work at under 45db.
I've been using the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo for around a month now, and as someone who adored the first Centauri Carbon (as you can probably tell from my five-star review), this had a high bar to clear. And honestly? From initial tests, it absolutely sticks the landing like a superhero leaping in from above. This is a better all-round experience with many quality of life tweaks, and while it may not bowl you over if you're expecting something drastically different, there's no question that it's a better product overall.
Although Elegoo is keen to stress that this is more of a standalone product than sequel (despite the '2' in the title), those who are familiar with the Centauri Carbon will be right at home here. It looks and acts the same way, from the enclosed design to the touchscreen. However, Elegoo's additions are a step up from what we've had before. To start with, it's quieter than the previous model – which I criticized for creating one hell of racket when printing. I wouldn't say to expect near-silent running, but it's an improvement for sure. I'm able to close my home office door and can't really tell it's on, even though our bedroom is on the other side of the wall. Considering how I'd never be able to do this with the 3D printer's predecessor, that's a significant leap.
I recently wrote about 3D printing my family a board game for Christmas, but what I didn't say was that I used the Elegoo Centauri Carbon 2 Combo for a good chunk of it. I was really impressed with the experience, especially because I threw it in at the deep end with a complex project.
This ties into Elegoo's pitch of the Centauri Carbon 2 Combo being a good 'family' printer, in the sense that it can be easily used at home without causing much of a ruckus. I'd certainly agree with that thus far.
I don't think prints are necessarily of a better quality, nor is this machine quicker. In fact, it's rocking the same CoreXY speeds of up to 500mm/s velocity and up to 20,000 mm/s² acceleration. But because of all the extra features that have been added in, the experience is far smoother. The ability to quickly and easily switch colors is a huge selling point too. Yes, the original Centauri Carbon is slated to get a multi-color add-on in the not-so-distant future. But if you were deciding whether to get the OG Carbon or the Carbon 2, Canvas already being included (to say nothing of all the other additions) makes it a no-brainer for me. It's a bit more expensive, but I'd say the outlay is worth it.
- Elegoo Centauri Carbon: $269 at Elegoo
For inspiration of what to print, check out the best board games and the best tabletop RPGs.
