Just a few years ago, multi-color 3D printing was almost exclusively limited to professional, high-end devices. In the meantime, more and more affordable models have entered the market, making color changes accessible to home users as well. With the new Hi Combo, Creality expands its portfolio with a multi-color printer capable of handling up to 16 different filaments in a single print job.
The Chinese manufacturer relies on a sturdy construction, high printing speed, and a mostly pre-assembled delivery. This makes the device especially appealing to beginners and ambitious hobbyists. In our test, we examined the technical capabilities of the Hi Combo and how it performs in real-world use.
Unboxing and Setup
Right out of the box, the Hi Combo impresses with its solid build quality. Creality ships the device 95% pre-assembled, significantly simplifying setup. The frame and printhead can be attached to the base module in just a few steps. A well-designed plug-in system ensures that all components stay in place before the screws are tightened. Clearly labeled cables and an easy-to-follow quick start guide make assembly straightforward even for inexperienced users. Creality also provides a setup video that walks through the installation step by step.
Thanks to this setup, the first print can begin in just about ten minutes. In operation, the Hi Combo stands firmly on its full-metal chassis. Two Z-axis lead screws keep the X-axis level, while a linear rail on the X-axis and dual guide rods on the Y-axis enable precise and smooth movements. Creality uses modern step-servo motors with vector-based FOC control, which ensure quiet operation even at speeds of up to 500 mm/s. Noise levels remain relatively low, although the open cooling fans are of course audible. The printer is controlled via a foldable 3.2-inch touchscreen. Creality also includes a built-in camera for live monitoring of print jobs, complete with a privacy cover.
Technology and Features
The combo version of the Creality Hi includes the new CFS filament system, which can automatically manage up to four filaments. An external multi-spool holder accommodates four rolls and feeds the required material to the printhead. This concept is similar to those of other manufacturers, but Creality takes it a step further: up to four CFS units can be combined, enabling access to as many as 16 different filaments in a single job. This allows not only multi-color prints, but also the use of multiple material types—such as dissolvable supports—within one print. That’s a rare feature in the consumer market.
The Hi Combo comes with a quick-swap printhead equipped with a 0.4 mm tri-metal nozzle, capable of handling abrasive filaments. An automatic filament cutter ensures clean transitions during color changes. Automatic calibration routines are also part of the package: the printer levels the bed before each print and detects inserted filament using a sensor. While these steps noticeably extend the start time, they greatly reduce the need for manual adjustments. In our tests, the Hi Combo ran reliably after the initial setup.
Hands-On Impressions and App Control
In everyday use, the Hi Combo impresses with its simple setup and well-thought-out handling. Once properly calibrated, the print results are clean and detailed. Automatic filament purging and precise axis movement allow for smooth color transitions without visible artifacts. Operating noise is within the usual range. Thanks to input shaping, the motion system runs with minimal vibration, though the open-frame design and cooling fans still generate audible noise.
A standout feature is the Creality Cloud app. It offers a clean interface that allows users to operate the printer remotely and send models directly from an online library. Setup is simple: connect the Hi Combo to Wi-Fi and pair it with the app using a QR code on the touchscreen.
Once paired, the app automatically detects the printer—including the correct build volume—and gives access to features like the live camera stream. Alternatively, Creality Print 6, a computer-based slicer built on Orca Slicer, is available with preconfigured settings for the Hi Combo.
Market Position
With the Hi Combo, Creality enters a relatively new market segment that few devices currently serve. Bambu Lab has introduced a similar concept with the A1—a fast “bed-slinger” printer featuring a four-color system and auto-calibration. However, the A1 is limited to a 256 × 256 × 256 mm build volume and is priced slightly above the Hi Combo. In contrast, Creality offers a larger print volume, the option to expand the color system to 16 filaments, and a lower entry price. The key question is whether new models like the Hi Combo can match established competitors in reliability and ease of use. Devices from Bambu Lab are especially praised for their polished software experience and quiet operation (< 48 dB).
Conclusion
With the Hi Combo, Creality delivers a versatile 3D printer aimed at beginners and creative hobbyists. It stands out with easy setup, intuitive operation, and a modular multi-color system capable of handling up to 16 filaments simultaneously—an uncommon feature in this price range.
The package includes a sturdy full-metal frame, automatic bed leveling, an integrated camera, and a smart filament management system. With this model, Creality positions itself as a serious contender in the multi-color desktop printing segment, showing that it can cater to both entry-level users and more complex multi-material applications.
The Hi Combo is currently available directly from Creality for €329. Bundled with the CFS filament changer, the total price is €489.
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