The QIDI Plus 4 not only promises fast and large-format prints but also enables warp-free printing of advanced materials like PA-CF, PET-CF, Nylon, and ABS, thanks to its heated chamber—all at a competitive price. Additionally, the device scores points with its sleek design. We tested how it performs in this highly competitive market.
The QIDI Plus 4 arrives securely packaged in a heavy box that gives the first hint of its impressive build volume. Inside the box is the 27 kg machine, whose weight is not only due to its size but also to the sturdy CORE XY construction and genuine glass panels. Although the case looks like brushed aluminum, it’s actually made of plastic—a detail that’s hard to notice unless you tap on it. Despite the plastic casing, the design and build quality are in a completely different and much higher league compared to previous QIDI models. The first impression of the device is, therefore, very positive.
The package includes the printer and assembly parts, some tools, a USB stick, power and network cables, a glue stick, and some spare parts.
QIDI Plus 4: Setup and Assembly
The machine measures 505 x 487 x 550 mm, and it’s recommended on the packaging to transport the device with two people. However, QIDI has added extremely practical, sturdy, and retractable handles on the top, making short-distance transport possible even alone. Nevertheless, we strongly advise against this for safety reasons.
The device is mostly pre-assembled and can be set up for operation in just a few minutes. Only the door handle and filament holder need to be attached with a few screws. The display connects via a cable and snaps into place without screws. The remaining tasks involve removing transport safety locks and protective films.
The QIDI Plus 4 is equipped with a glass door on the front and a glass lid. These openings not only make it easier to remove packaging materials but also simplify everyday use. Operation is controlled via a 5-inch LCD touchscreen centrally mounted on the top front. The USB port is located on the upper rear side, and the spool holder is conveniently moved to the top, making filament changes much easier, especially for heavy devices. However, the rear side should not be overlooked, as purge filament is ejected there.
The power cable and switch are positioned at the lower right on the back, making them easy to access.
Features and Highlights
The machine supports both Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections, along with traditional USB stick file transfer. A notable highlight is its fully enclosed design, which enables the use of its second-generation active heated chamber. This chamber heats the interior to up to 65°C in less than ten minutes, allowing for warp-free printing of materials like PA-CF, PET-CF, Nylon, and ABS.
This feature is complemented by a powerful 80W bimetal high-temperature print head with a 370°C hotend. A sturdy dual Z-axis mechanism minimizes vibrations and movements within the spacious build volume of 305 x 305 x 280 mm.
The machine runs on the latest Klipper version V1.2, which enables impressive print speeds of up to 600 mm/s, making it an ideal combination of large build volume, high temperature, and speed.
An integrated 1080p camera allows for remote monitoring of the print process and creating captivating time-lapse videos. Additionally, an active carbon filter reduces emissions into the environment. Automatic, contactless bed leveling with dual-sensor technology, including a piezoelectric sensor under the heated bed, ensures perfect first-layer adhesion.
Detailed Specifications
- Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
- Build Volume: 305 x 305 x 280 mm
- Minimum Layer Resolution: 50 microns
- Maximum Layer Resolution: 400 microns
- Dimensions: 505 x 487 x 550 mm
- Weight: 27 kg
- Heated Bed: Up to 120°C
- Print Surface: Double-sided textured PEI sheet
- Software: QIDI Studio, compatible with PrusaSlicer, Orca
- Materials: PLA, ABS, ASA, PETG, TPU, carbon/glass-fiber composites
- Print Speed: Up to 600 mm/s
Software
The software has also received a significant update. The latest version of QIDI Studio offers fast slicing times and full integration with the Klipper firmware. The hardware remains compatible with popular third-party slicers, so switching is not necessary. Additionally, QIDI-Link enables remote control through an intuitive and user-friendly interface.
Our Experience So Far
In our tests, the device has largely lived up to its promises. The software and connectivity worked flawlessly, and QIDI Studio delivered on its claims. Print jobs could be easily loaded and started via Wi-Fi, network cable, or USB stick.
Manual filament feeding worked as expected but could benefit from an automatic feed and retraction system. While feeding is straightforward, filament ejection could result in excess purge filament unless you disconnect the tubes and cut the filament directly at the extruder.
The fully automatic calibration processes ran smoothly in all our tests, and firmware updates could be easily installed over the internet directly on the device.
Print adhesion and quality were flawless, even for larger objects. In our tests, the device handled materials like PLA, PETG, ABS, and ASA with ease. It also printed PLA-CF and PC blends successfully. Print speeds were excellent.
The achievable temperatures are undoubtedly a highlight of this printer and impressive for a device in this price range. However, a minor drawback is slightly undersized cooling, meaning temperature regulation for simple materials like PLA might require manually opening one of the doors.
The integrated camera does not, unlike some competitor products, feature intelligent AI functions. However, we have yet to find these systems useful in practice on other devices.
Downloading time-lapse videos is not currently intuitive. This is only possible by directly accessing the device’s IP address in a browser, which initiates an automatic download. We expect this issue to be resolved in an upcoming software update.
We were also impressed with the use of belts with finer 1.5-mm teeth, which theoretically allow for greater precision compared to the commonly used 2-mm belts.
A multi-material upgrade is planned, according to the manufacturer, which will further enhance the device in the future.
Conclusion
The QIDI Plus 4 impresses as a machine particularly suited for projects requiring higher temperatures and larger build volumes. The mentioned drawbacks should be viewed in the context of its aggressive price point, as they can be easily mitigated or are likely to be resolved soon through updates. The device is especially suitable for medium to large projects in small businesses, research, or educational institutions looking to experiment with various materials. The combination of size, speed, temperature capabilities, and price currently sets the QIDI Plus 4 apart from its competitors, making it an attractive choice.
The device is currently available for €799 and can be purchased through this link.
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