Prusa Original Prusa MK4

All3DP highlights the Original Prusa MK4 as a solid, dependable 3D printer that builds on the strengths of its predecessor with thoughtful quality-of-life improvements and excellent print performance. While the MK4 delivers near-perfect first layers, a refined user interface, and innovative features like load-cell bed leveling and a versatile new extruder design, it feels more like an evolutionary update than a revolutionary leap. The review notes some rough edges, including a somewhat rushed launch, occasional UI bugs, and a lack of enabled touchscreen functionality despite hardware support. Input shaping firmware adds speed and reduces ringing but doesn’t fully close the gap with faster competitors. The MK4’s quieter operation claims are questioned, and setup for Wi-Fi connectivity is described as fiddly. Despite a higher price and increased competition from newer, faster models like the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon, the MK4 remains a top choice for enthusiasts valuing reliability, open-source heritage, and a mature ecosystem. The review awards it four out of five stars, praising its consistent quality but acknowledging it’s no longer the market’s most innovative option.

Tony Hoffman from PCMag highlights the Original Prusa MK4 as a refined evolution of Prusa’s flagship open-frame 3D printer, combining proven print quality with meaningful upgrades like a thicker frame, redesigned extruder, touch screen, and enhanced bed-leveling. Praising its ease of setup, extensive filament compatibility, and the intuitive PrusaSlicer software, Hoffman emphasizes the MK4’s consistent high-quality prints and improved speed. The review notes the printer’s premium price but frames it as justified for serious hobbyists seeking reliability and performance. Unique insights include the inclusion of a comprehensive printed manual and the playful tradition of Haribo Gummi Bears with the kit. Minor criticisms are limited to a rare misprint linked to software file issues and the high cost compared to budget alternatives. Overall, the MK4 earns PCMag’s Editors’ Choice for mid-priced consumer 3D printers, celebrated for its balance of innovation, quality, and user-friendly design.

Denise Bertacchi from Tom’s Hardware highlights the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a standout 3D printer that successfully builds on its predecessor with thoughtful, well-executed upgrades. Praising its flawless auto bed leveling, quiet operation, and the innovative “Nextruder” with quick-swap nozzles, the review conveys genuine enthusiasm for the MK4’s blend of reliability and advanced features. The new firmware, influenced by Klipper, notably boosts print speed without sacrificing quality, especially after the recent Input Shaper update. While the MK4 commands a premium price of $1099 assembled, it offers excellent value for beginners and experienced makers seeking a dependable, ready-to-use machine. The review also provides unique insights into Prusa’s commitment to quality, such as in-house 3D printed parts and extensive factory testing. However, the reviewer candidly notes the MK4’s higher cost compared to faster, less expensive Core XY competitors, suggesting it’s best suited for those prioritizing ease of use and brand trust over budget or raw speed.

James Bricknell from CNET highlights the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a refined evolution of the highly regarded MK3, maintaining its hallmark print quality while significantly boosting print speeds. The review praises the MK4’s upgraded aluminum frame for added stability, the innovative Nextruder dual-gear system that excels with flexible filaments like TPU, and the easy-to-swap nozzle design. Print results are consistently excellent across multiple materials, with near-perfect bridging and tolerance tests, though some stringing issues persist despite slicer adjustments. Bricknell appreciates Prusa’s open-source ethos and the advanced PrusaSlicer software, especially its organic support structures that reduce scarring. However, he notes the MK4 arrives somewhat late amid faster, competitively priced alternatives, and criticizes the complicated network setup lacking user-friendly remote printing. While the MK4 is a solid, reliable machine, the reviewer suggests future models need more groundbreaking innovation to maintain Prusa’s market leadership. The kit option offers better value, but the full price feels steep given current competition.

Caleb Kraft from Make: highlights the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a highly reliable and user-friendly 3D printer, emphasizing its effortless setup and flawless first-layer printing thanks to a new load cell sensor. He praises the out-of-the-box experience, including a factory-tested print and intuitive touchscreen previews. Kraft values the printer’s consistent performance on challenging prints, such as specialized charity parts requiring perfect first layers, where the MK4 excels without babysitting. While he notes the MK4 is only moderately faster than its predecessor and retains a traditional bed-slinger design rather than adopting a CoreXY system, he acknowledges Prusa’s commitment to open-source upgrades and future firmware enhancements like input shaping that promise significant speed gains. At a $1,099 price point, Kraft appreciates Prusa’s strong customer support and open ecosystem, concluding that if the MK4 matches the MK3’s legendary reliability with improved first-layer consistency, it’s a worthwhile investment for serious makers.

Tom Sanladerer assesses the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a well-engineered and thoughtfully iterated successor to the MK3, maintaining the brand’s hallmark reliability and solid print quality. He highlights meaningful hardware upgrades like the new leak-proof hotend, load-cell bed leveling, and improved stepper motors, but notes that some expected improvements—such as the elimination of vibration artifacts—are only partially realized. The review expresses cautious optimism about the upcoming input shaping firmware, which currently remains in an alpha state and introduces trade-offs that diminish print detail. Sanladerer appreciates Prusa’s open-source slicer and robust diagnostics but critiques the MK4’s WiFi setup and lack of integrated webcam support. While the MK4 excels in refinement and durability, he questions whether its €1200 price tag is justified in a market where competitors offer compelling alternatives. Ultimately, he views the MK4 as a dependable workhorse rather than an exciting leap forward, recommending it mainly for users prioritizing reliability over innovation.

Graham Faulknor from GearLab / TechGearLab highlights the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a meticulously engineered 3D printer designed for experienced makers who enjoy hands-on customization. Praising its robust build quality, excellent print capabilities, and notably upgradable design, the review emphasizes the MK4’s potential to remain relevant through future technology improvements. However, Faulknor also points out significant drawbacks: a lengthy and complex initial assembly, a steep price, and a somewhat clunky user interface that may deter beginners. Print quality is generally strong, with precise layer control and reliable adhesion, though minor surface imperfections require user fine-tuning. Exceptional customer support and comprehensive documentation help mitigate the steep learning curve. Overall, the MK4 is recommended for patient, technically skilled users who value long-term adaptability and high-quality results, while those seeking out-of-the-box ease or budget options might consider alternatives.

3Printr.com (David) highlights the Prusa Original Prusa MK4 as a standout in the entry-level 3D printer market, praising its exceptional build quality, reliability, and harmonious integration of hardware, software, and materials. The review emphasizes Prusa’s influential role in the industry, noting its widespread adoption and the active, supportive ecosystem that enhances user experience. While the MK4 lacks some modern gadgets like a touchscreen or SD card slot, it excels in core functions such as automatic bed leveling, filament sensing, and power-loss recovery, delivering consistently excellent print quality and speed. Minor criticisms include a somewhat cumbersome Wi-Fi setup and a price premium compared to some competitors, though the reviewer considers the cost justified by the printer’s durability, modularity, and strong community support. Overall, the MK4 is described as a reliable, no-nonsense workhorse that stays true to Prusa’s legacy, making it a worthy successor to the MK3 and a top choice for serious makers.