Why you should get the Ender-3 v2 instead of the CR-6 SE!

[@beurnii]

I have a CR6SE and I have an extremely positive experience with it. It's stock and I have never failed a print and the print quality is pretty much perfect. Yes there has been issue with the kickstarter, but it seems to have been handled and fixed because I am having a blast with it.

[@snuurtje]

Same experience here. I also had the vase mode blobs but they are gone now.

[@Jake-mc4zk]

@@snuurtje Did you update your firmware to get rid of those blobs? (As a total noob I’m a bit scared to update the firmware from the stock version my CR6SE came with)

[@pitbullash]

@@Jake-mc4zk i dont want to update , lol , im afraid 😂🙈

[@snuurtje]

@@Jake-mc4zk no I use octopi but that does confirm that the issue is firmware related.

[@Xiltch]

@@snuurtje Did you have issues with the USB port shorting or did you do the special cable that is less the power delivery?

[@3DPrintingNerd]

I just got the V2 out of the box on a stream a few days ago and I was blown away at the quality I got from first prints.

[@Krytern]

It's a shame the v2 has only just started to get attention from the bigger 3D printing KZbin channels, I really like mine.

[@gideonfpv1026]

I was up and printing in minutes, first time 3D printing

[@Kalvinjj]

As blown as your CR6-SE's USB port? Jokes aside, seems like a weird ground loop issue. No idea how they managed that... Could it be you had one of the parts being connected (either PC or 3D printer) grounded while the other was ungrounded? Still don't think it should spark...

[@thenegotiator9701]

Yeah can’t wait to get one! It will be a nice addition to my cr10s

[@zero00tolerance]

Straight from the pro, going to buy it then !

[@smallno8888]

Actually a month ago I saw this video and still went ahead for the CR6 SE just for the auto bed leveling. It has been printing perfectly for me. None of the issues on the Internet occured. I believe those "known problems" were for old batches, they've fixed them already.

[@LargeeeScaleLife]

I’m doing research and thinking about getting into this hobby. I really like the fact that you do a review on the machine without doing modifications and just talk about it how it comes out of the box. There are way too many videos out there saying how printer is great but you need to do 15 different things to make it better I don’t really want to have to do that first thing. Later maybe. I really dig the honesty in these reviews thank you

[@patek2385]

I just bought ender 3 V2, waiting for arrival.

[@scotts1356]

I'm with you. Why should I have to pay for something that needs to be "tweaked" a 1000 times before I can even use it!

[@flaviamartinez9998]

I ordered my first printer which was the Ender3 v2 yesterday night. This video made me feel good about my decision.

[@ArcangelZero7]

Same! I was struggling with the decision, and looking for a video exactly like this to help. I'm glad to see I made the right choice it sounds like. :)

[@phillxor]

Me too! So cheap with the sales. Looking forward to it.

[@niggo5949]

I bought the cr 6 se a few days earlier ..

[@ianpollard4138]

Had my v2 for a month. So easy to use. Attached octoprint this week, learning curve, but that's a good thing. The bed sticks well but always check your level. Not perfect hardware but prints are great.

[@CountDoucheula]

@@niggo5949 congratulations, it's a great printer. Have fun making all kinds of things you never thought you needed. Don't let gear envy get you down. Don't forget the old adage "If ifs and buts were candy and nuts, Something something, deal with it." *Shakespeare, probably*

[@mdiaz0429]

I've had the CR6-SE for over a month now and I have not had any of the problems many people are describing. I am actually getting near perfect prints all the time with this machine.

[@greengorilla3000]

Same. I’ve had a great experience with the CR6-SE. the only issues I’ve had are really just due to my inexperience with 3D printing. It’s been a great learning experience.

[@markusprienitz3773]

I love how the thumbnail is basically the distracted boyfriend meme :D

[@Mister_Stork]

Good eyes! 😳😂😂😂

[@eponack]

He is getting pretty good with his thumbnails.

[@RomanoPRODUCTION]

Thank you for mentioning this. Yes it is just awesome :)

[@malloott]

Yeah his thumbnail skills are getting top of the bill

[@Bearbones]

You don't say

[@Project-Air]

That thumbnail is gold

[@itsmillertime27]

I've never owned the Ender V2 but did just purchase the CR-6 and absolutely love it! I have had none of the issues you described, only perfect prints with outstanding quality.

[@Orgruk]

That's fair. I'm modding my CR-6 SE now, printing & buying parts. I'm happy with it.

[@crimsonspan9750]

The Ender 3 V2 is about $390 CAD from all major retailers around me. I bought the CD-6SE for $440 after a Black Friday discount... I think these few upgrades out of the box are worth the $50. Thanks for the vid!

[@NiKaraguan]

Just ordered the e3v2 for €219, was on sale. Also: 2 years later…

[@WreckDiver99]

Have a CR-6 SE...as with my Ender3, I pulled a "Unicorn". 1500+ hours of it running, several KG's of filament through it, it prints as good as my friends PRUSA, and yes, it's a kickstarter printer. Switch was fine, PS was fine, Assembly went without a problem, I got my printer just about when I was supposed to (SHIP date was right where they said it would be, so many people screaming "I should have HAD my printer then, not the ship date"...that's not how it works, and nobody expected the customs fiascos everybody was having issues with (friend in the Netherlands had his stuck at customs for 6 weeks). As for sound? Freaking QUIET. It sits in my office, and I many times have to look at the printer to ensure it is running. Not saying there aren't problems...I'm just not experiencing them. Not saying I won't have issues, but so far? My Ender3 has 5000+ hours of runtime...all that I really "changed" was the "hot end fix" and I also changed the bed springs...as for changes to my 6SE? Just the filament guide, and only because I didn't want to deal with the "gap", even though I printed about 30 different colors before actually making that addition, I really didn't have a problem with feeding filament that so many complained about...maybe it's me, maybe it's them. Is what it is.

[@reasonablebeing5392]

My CR-6Se has been also trouble-free so far (knock on wood) and the only mod was the filament guide (Creality should just add it in production). I'm nowhere near 1500 hours on mine but expect it to behave.

[@ArcangelZero7]

This seems to be my understanding as well: It's not that the machine was necessarily engineered poorly, so much as quality control seems to make it a bit of a gamble sometimes!

[@cheetahprague]

My CR-6 SE has been without issue as well. I've printed some fantastic prints, including some very wide items that take up most of the bed. No issues. Good quality. The auto bed leveling for me is worth the extra $135. Just push a button and level, no calibration. The only thing I have changed is the nozzle and the feed tube. Its upstairs printing now, perfectly silent you can't hear it even if you are in the room next to it. So for me, its great. I'm thinking about getting another one just so I can print more (some of my prints take 2 - 3 days).

[@Aagggyy]

@@cheetahprague I have ender 3 v2, CR-10s, and a certain Delta printer. I’m thinking of buying another 3-D printer, is the CR6 the printer for that?

[@MrCanadianhero]

Hey not sure if you will see this, but its been a while now since you posted this, i am looking at getting into 3d printing. and i was told the cr-6 se was a good started, and i like that it has auto leveling since i feel from what i have seen is one of the biggest factors of having a good print. so would you recommend it now? after all this time?

[@greenweanie]

I have the Ender 3 V2, (my first printer) and I have no regrets. I added a bl touch and capricorn tubing, otherwise all stock. I do use Prusa slicer and it's been a reliable workhorse!

[@BamTehBrent]

I received my ender 3 v2 just last week and it has completely tricked me into thinking I'm some sort of pro. Excellent right out of the box.

[@serdaraytemiz9978]

I got the Ender 3 V2 after watching this and your head shaving video. I am so happy. It just works out of the box. we spent all day measuring and building. the only issue I am having at the moment is the build area has a sink in it. the plate is flat. we checked it with a square. I think my X-axis is bent that is the only explanation. as long as you build small stuff it is not an issue but I did scratch the surface of the plate while building the filament rollers. also the printer is not level on its feet. Used the warranty papers to level it out :) so literally everything to make the printer work comes out of the box ;) The quality is exceptional. we were surprised to say the least. well made and product. I am going to build my filament detector and filament cleaner (next print). later I will check to see if I can build a bed leveling. Out of the box it is great and works. I used the standard filaments to print the examples in the sd card (dog and cat) worked great. I used tinylab 3d black filament. worked great. filament broke at the end of the scraper pocket then I decided to build the rollers. It is important to have bearing rollers for filament. right now I am printing the bearing covers but it is on the bearings and works great. I replaced the creality slicer to Cura. I will probably replace the firmware later. apperantly the current one does not work with bed leveling. the cr-6 is almost twice as expensive here in Turkey which does not justify the price difference.

[@mkaushalmd]

Thank you, You answered all my questions without me asking them. I am going to buy my first 3d printer because of you, the Ender3v2.

[@FrancoisMathieu]

Thanks. I agree with you, modifying or too much tweaking of the printer does not reflect the "out of the box experience". My CR-10 mini gave me great prints with just the basic adjustments. Over the past year, I've upgraded the machine so, like you said, it's now a new machine, not a CR-10 mini anymore.

[@JonWilliams84]

Had a CR-6 for about 3 weeks, have pretty much been running it around the clock without any major issues and the prints are spot on. I did flash the community firmware immediately though and I block the power pin on the USB cable to my octopi. I also replaced the power switch but creality refunded the cost. Overall have been incredibly impressed so far. It's quick too, I print at 80mm/s normally but have run upto 150mm/s and quality hasn't suffered massively...could probably go higher.

[@MrMasi84]

Cancelled order for CR-6 and ordered Ender 3 V2 instead. Thank you for these good heads ups.

[@FilamentFriday]

Agree but updating the firmware on V2 is necessary to get M0 and M600 to work. Creality didn’t complete that either.

[@ajaybnl]

Sir, Do you know auto resume function works on the shipped firmware? Also do we need to update firmware for daily use or wait for marlin 2.x update from creality?

[@Krytern]

@@ajaybnl There's already Marlin 2.x from creality. Pretty sure even the firmware it ships with is 2.x

[@S0Fr3shThisKid]

@@ajaybnl Update the firmware asap

[@Kurogod5]

Creality makes horrible printers lol 😂

[@S0Fr3shThisKid]

@@Kurogod5 Notice how no one agreed with you lol

[@adamspark9259]

Trying to decide on a printer, so I am watching a lot of reviews. As someone who is not very DIY due to disability and loves out of the box experiences, when you said that you only can review what the manufacturer gives and not what you or I could turn it into, you earned my respect. You could junk a 3D printer into an impressive amount of scrap metal, but that doesn't mean the creator deserves credit for the amount and quality of the metal. Thanks Thomas.

[@sindrejl]

Cr6se is a fantastic machine for its price! Gave staggering good prints out of the box and acctually better looking parts then prusa

[@stefffpv]

did you update the firmware on it ? and is it still doing good prints ?

[@polyalkemi]

@@stefffpv No haven't bothered acctually. still prints sexy fine :D

[@johnford7847]

To me, this is a very useful and informative review of the merits (and demerits) of both machines. Thank you.

[@Review3d]

I always appreciate your honest and thorough reviews, I'm surprised you didn't mention the CR-6 SE having dual-Z though. That and auto bed leveling put it over the Ender-3 V2 for me, even with the added cost. I backed the CR-6 SE campaign about midway through my experience has been very different from yours (and possibly many others). I haven't had any issues at all and my print quality and reliability have been fantastic. I've seen the issues other owners have experienced, so I may have just gotten very lucky.

[@MadeWithLayers]

I generally try to only include details that are significant, extraordinary or have large impacts on usability, safety or quality. Yes, the CR-6 SE has a dual Z-axis, but with how consistent the Ender-3 v2 is printing, I don't see what difference it would make.

[@Review3d]

@@MadeWithLayers that's fair enough. I had persistent issues with the gantry binding/sagging on the unsupported side my Ender-3 V1. Turned out to be defective v-slot wheels, but I've valued dual-Z more since then.

[@hemi-pilot]

I have a CR-6 SE and actually prefer it’s print quality over that of the Ender3 V2. But then I don’t use the standard Creality Slicer, but Cura 4.8 with custom profiles for both the CR-6 SE and Ender3 V2.

[@qcnck2776]

Thanks for this excellent review, Tom. This is exactly why I think your channel is the best.

[@shinmai]

4:41, the CR-6 before tha latest update, released a few days ago, actually wrote the PLR data to the EEPROM, and stored the EEPROM data on the SD. The latest official update fixes this and there are no more pauses during printing. (The unofficial community firmware has had this, and the bed scratching issue that happened if prints are cancelled during the first layer, fixed for a while now, too) Also I _REALLY_ wish all the 3DP KZbinrs had put their "hey maybe don't get the CR-6" videos out a few weeks ago before I pulled the trigger on my CR-6 SE and the refund window ran out :D

[@pitbullash]

I dont get all this hate videos towards the CR-6 Se ! I have used the printer in 3 months now , ( 89 hours used ) and i had 0% problems ! The quality is top notch , and i Still using the stock power switch without any issues !

[@Xiltch]

I got the CR6-SE through the Kickstarter campaign. I opted for an optional extra in the form of the magnetic PEI flex plate. With being in the UK i suffered from some delivery issues that delayed my printer delivery as well. The PEI flext plate is not usable as it requires installation in a way that would render the Glass bed no longer usable which I am not prepared to do. Having said that ... I am still happy with my purchase. This has been an upgrade from my old Tevo which lately was luck based in terms of getting a print to stick to the bed, never mind completing the print. I was so happy with how easy it is to get that first print to stick as a result of the bed level system with no tweaking offsets that other systems tend to require. After a benchy test, my first print was some retention clips i found on Thingiverse that dont slip and ensure the cables dont sag or go wild. I did tweak the switch contacts to pro-actively solve the switch issues but even before that my switch did not have a problem. The only issue my printer had was the display cable not reaching to which was easily solved by pulling the tool drawer out and pulling the cable out a little. Cosmetically the label on the X axis motor is peeling at the corners but I am not putting this thing on a pedastal so that and its transformer like designs do not bother me. I had no problems upgrading to Cura 4.8.0 while keeping my printer profile which fixed the software issue regarding the nozzle size allowing me to configure my nozzle size but I also have all the materials to select from. I have been using eSun Black PLA+ to print with and the print quality is great considering that spool was never stored properly and I am sure has loads of moisture in it but the printer is just handling it no problem. I admit a bit of stringing is there but with comb mode enabled ... i hope this will not be an issue. I do have some upgrades to personalize my printer which includes an aluminium plate the same thickness as the glass bed to use for adhering the PEI magnetic builde plate to in order to support both glass and the PEI plate together. I also hope to explore a direct drive extruder to improving retraction and solve the threads but also open up flexible filaments. I totally get where Thomas is coming from when trying to compare models as they come from the factory but I think these printers also need to be evaluated on their ability to be modified and enhanced. At my pledge point of $319 I believe the CR6-SE was a good buy and I was lucky to land a working model ... But honestly my choice was purely driven by the bed level system on the CR6-SE and I suspect the CR6-SE is a model to explore this new method to validate it as a viable option before iterating on its design to solve issues.

[@pogchamp4212]

I'm playing catch up with 3d printing and you're doing an amazing job. I love the interjection of humor within your videos as well. Kudos

[@georgemoua7349]

Still rocking my Ender 3. I prefer the barebones-ness of them. It's helped me to learn a lot about 3d printing and potential causes for user error. Recently picked another one up because they're so reliable once set up.

[@ramtek2702]

You failed to mention the dual Z axis motors on the CR6 SE.

[@Krytern]

He didn't mention it because it wasn't worth mentioning really. Dual z motors is pointless on machines this size.

[@ramtek2702]

@@Krytern You're entitled to your opinion as he would be but it only takes a few seconds to mention the extra motor and to state the opinion. BTW, I do not share your opinion as I' feel others do not also.

[@Tertion]

I also don't see why you would put dual axis motors on a printer that size and with a light hotend....

[@ArcangelZero7]

@@Tertion Out of curiosity, I'd love to know why two Z-axis motors is pointless given the size. It's not an issue to have the carriage sagging on one side? I say this because I have an Anet A8 I've practically re-built from the ground up, but the carriage will always sag on one side, where the motor is weak and lets it fall a bit when the power isn't switched on! One motor certainly seems less complicated, for sure!

[@ramtek2702]

@@Tertion First, it isn't a "dual axis" since both motors are driving the Z axis. Weight is certainly a design consideration. I'm sure Creality knows that many (maybe most) users will convert to a direct drive extruder to get rid of the POS they provide. Personally, I never prefer cantilevered designs for anything if cost effective alternatives are available as they are here. The NON-cantilevered design is the major reason I bought an E5+ instead of one of the E5 models.

[@stuartbarton130]

I have both models and get really good prints out of both. The CR6 SE experience for me has so far been rock solid and it seems like a really good unit. The Ender 3 V2 prints well when you finally get the bed level and compensate for the Non flat bed, not sure how Thomas was dealing with that especially with the factory springs. Once again some good mods to fix it and a BL Touch would be great for it, but out of the box, not great.

[@leesarcade]

I love my CR6. It prints great and I've had zero trouble with it. The auto leveling is amazing. The only thing I did was print the block to put inbetween the filament sensor and extruder. I was unaware of a firmware upgrade and I'll be going that tomorrow. I actually got my kickstarter well before I was expecting it and paid $318.

[@gkseifert]

Happy to see this video. I have been thinking about the Ender 3 V2 or the Prusa Mini for a day or two. Today there was a special short term offer on Amazon that knocked the Canadian price of the V2 down to $340 from $400 with free one day shipping. The Mini would have been about $680 or so (Canadian) including the shipping charge, and there doubtless would have been some duty to pay on top of that. I would have also had to wait weeks. Needless to say, I jumped at that offer. Half the cost, a bigger print volume and the opportunity to do some modding. Woohoo! Very happy to hear your report on it's print quality and that you would also go for it rather than the Prusa now. Your videos are great. Thanks.

[@crothas]

I got my CR6-SE from the kickstarter a while back and I've never had any issues like you have shown. The only "mod" ive done is update the firmware to their newest versions. I've used it with and without Octoprint as well. Interesting to see the lack of quality control on their end.

[@bkindt]

I returned my problem-ridden Prusa Mini, and I ordered an Ender 3 V2. Fingers crossed.

[@t0tobi]

I have the Ender3 V2 since a couple of month now and its a really solid machine. It justs prints fine. I only do PLA and TPU and change between them very often, no problem at all. Only thing that one could complain about is the noise level. Its one of the loudest printers i have ever seen.

[@ronjohansen1509]

i have the ender 3 v2 and i just love it. the quality is awesome, the v2 is the perfect printer for a beginner or hobbyist :D

[@mikecrawshaw3207]

Bought the Ender3V2 after watching this. Added BLtouch and the quality of the prints is first class. Thanks for an objective review.

[@DAGODER]

Finally got my 6 SE, it prints awesome! I also have the Ender 3 PRO. The dog sample print came out fantastic, super smooth , I could not believe the quality. NO layer lines visible, incredible. I Love your channel but I have to disagree. The filament run out sensor and the auto leveling is enough to make this printer worth the extra $ in my opinion. This is especially true for those new to 3D Printing. I don't have the Ender 3 PRO V2 so I can not compare the quality, but the quality is better than my Ender 3 PRO

[@stefffpv]

hello did you update the firmare ? does the printer still print good ? bouth with tpu and pla?

[@joysantos1879]

I actually have the opposite experience, I bought the 3v2 and it came in with missing parts, ordered the second one but had nothing but problems, almost every print failed and it was stressing me out having to check on it constantly to make sure the print was fine, I bought the cr6se from offer up for a great price and haven’t had a single print fail me. I tore down the 3v2 and sent it back to Amazon and have no regrets. The cr6se is so much quieter and smoother, the print quality compared to what you showed here is so much better, and I haven’t tweaked anything or even upgraded the firmware. I guess it’s a hit or miss with creality.

[@jeffreyd5129]

On Monday Nov 23 I received my Ender 3 V2 I ordered from Banggood. This is my first 3D printer and I'm very happy with it. They had a price storm promotion on it. The price was $226.00

[@elitesennabubble]

I got a V2 as my first printer a few days ago and it is incredible out of the box and great for a beginner

[@DavidFernandez-sc5ws]

Just got it yesterday. Been printing nonstop. My first printer. I love it. Already got new bed springs. dual extruder and Capricorn tube.

[@yohanntoutain2682]

I have the CR6 SE and i have no problems with it. Prints are far better than my Ender 3 V1.

[@artronics]

For a sec I thought my Adblocker is not working lol.

[@flaviamartinez9998]

Lol same

[@reasonablebeing5392]

Great "out of box" assessment, Tom. The V2 represents everything Creality had learned about perfecting the Ender 3 thus far and any new features like the display still need an iteration. I bit and bought a later in the production run discounted kickstarter CR-6 SE fully aware that there would be some if not many teething issues. I would not recommend it as a first printer in its present state (you can't go wrong with any version of an Ender-3 for a first printer). I harken back to the CR-10 which was also much maligned when it was initially released but after many upgrades it's one of the few printers in my shop that have stayed put and I don't see it leaving any time soon. To me the CR-10 bed size is the key reason. I like the CR-6 SE and its potential to be the next printer to stick around my shop. I look at it as what the Ender 3 would grow up to become when aspects of the CR-6 have the kinks worked out.

[@notchipotle]

For hobby printer, you can't get much better print quality than the ender 3 v2 as long as you use high quality filament, maybe a fan mod for better overhang and bridging if necessary. The only upgrade that I do is changing the bed to magnetic PEI and all metal extruder, I don't mind doing manual leveling once in a while.

[@JeffRainey]

I bought the SE, and I have had no issues with. The prints look excellent, and the bed leveling works better than I thought it would. Filament loading is a bit fiddly, but it’s not a show stopper for me at least. I definitely think the V2 is probably the better value, but the SE bed leveling is worth it. I own three other Creality printers (Ender 3 Pro, and CR-10 which I have modified the crap out of). Creality has come a long way, but one thing I have learned, is the first version is always the worst version. That said, if bed leveling causes you headaches, and you don’t want to wait for a Prussa Mini, the the SE might be an option for you. Great video!

[@stephanevarin6938]

I was thinking about buying a CR-6 and finally in order to save money, I bought a 3 V2 ender, I'm really happy with my choice.

[@IJJusion]

I maybe one of the lucky ones, I've currently printed about 200hrs on my CR6-SE, in the first 5 hours of printing I had the filament sensor issue which required to be opened/glued in place but after that its been flawless, auto leveled twice in my 200hrs of printing, exactly what I was after, super low maintenance 3d printing, as my previous printer I spent nearly as much time tweaking it as I did printing with it :P

[@Tomatoe182]

This resonates with how I feel really, I think the community is largely split between those that want to design and simply print and then those that want to 'geek out' and tinker away, intimately knowing every part of their 3D printer(s) as they slowly replace/upgrade everything... The CR-6 SE appeals to those that just want to 'hit the ground running', but seems to get a bashing from the tinker crowd I think..?

[@Guffy1990]

I'm pretty happy with my v2 as my first printer, dramatically surprised by the quality anyway. The bed has a really horrible time of keeping a level (even with yellow springs and adjusting the z-end stop switch) and the really weird, fairly unfinished firmware are some downsides... I've had all sorts of issues firmware related, and the micro SD card readers' spring gave up after around 15 days, so if you put an SD card in now, it holds for a second or two, then gets fired to the opposite end of the room like it's a firing range or something. I was travelling for a genuine reason a week or so ago and decided to stop by some family, and I had left a fairly old laptop there. Then I got thinking... I could easily flash a Linux distro onto it (I chose Raspbian just for simplicities sake) and installed OctoPrint onto it, and it works a treat! I did have the printer directly plugged into my main computer, but if I turned the printer off, it would try to draw as much current as possible and try to turn itself on... Over USB... Yeah, my computer didn't like that... 350W over a USB cable? Not happening. Nearly wrecked 2 USB ports on my computer, and I'm lucky that's the only thing that happened! Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me. At least now it's only an old laptop that'll lose a USB port if I forget to turn it off before the printer. And it solves the USB issue. Doesn't solve the inability to use EEPROM though, even with compiling my own firmware and using the most recent official one.

[@mhausb6436]

I bought a CR-6 through the Kickstarter campain and although it obviously has its flaws I must say I have been very happy with the results right from the start and without even tweaking anything. In contrast to Thomas I have absolutely no complaints about the print quality on my machine. Now, this may be a sign that there is an element of luck involved when buying a Creality printer. Yes, I don't use the power switch and I am too afraid to plug anything into the USB port :(. The main reason I do not recommend this printer is however the reported lack of customer service on Creality's side. If you do not plan to do repairs yourself, only buy this from a place that can also service it and give advice. Things I like: The automatic bed leveling and carborundum bed work like a treat! First level is always good on the first try (I always use a brim, though, which I then remove with a deburrer) and no messing around with gluestick or hair spray! The prints just stick during print and pop off easily when the bed has cooled down. The touch screen is not strictly necessary but I always found that old "encoder with button input" very inconvenient. My previous experiences are with an Ultimaker Original (kit with heated bed add-on) and an Ender 3 Pro (with the flexible magnetic bed). BTW, the Ultimaker died when a FET on the power supply board blew up (yes, this not only happens to CR6s!)

[@mmstep5150]

I have an artillery sidewinder x1 and love it. My first 3D printer. I also purchased the Ender 3. Now that I am looking to add another printer I think I will get myself an Ender 3 can't beat it for what it does and the cost.

[@brandonporter4227]

I have a CR-6 SE. I did replace the switch as a precaution and have not attempted to plug anything into the USB port yet. Other than that, it has been printing reliably since day one. I don't know exactly how much time or filament I've put through it, but it's at least a couple of spools worth and a few hundred hours. In fact, I just finished an 84-hour project a few days ago comprised of 6 models that used roughly 780g of filament. Parts all came out perfect with no blemishes and fit together very well. I used the latest version of Cura and am still on the 1.0.2 printer firmware. There are some good CR-6 SE's out there, but there are certainly those which have their issues too. Had I not gone in on the Kickstarter and waited to see what the reviews were saying from yourself and all the backers, I probably would have steered clear. I'm happy that mine is working very well though.

[@jamesdownes1974]

Outstanding thumbnail. I bought v2 a few weeks ago, but the SD card was dead on arrival. Waiting for a refund from the (very slow) UK supplier and was thinking about getting a Prusa Mini, but I’ll just get another v2 after watching this. Thanks Tom.

[@tobario]

I am very impressed with the CR6 SE. I have absolutely zero of the issues in this video. I have flawless prints with minimal setup. And right now it costs around 200€ with a tomtop coupon. It was just out of the box perfect for me as a beginner. When I compare my results with others I always like mine more with the standard profile and "Das Filament" PLA. But I already read they upgraded the CR 6 SE silently. Even the filament guide is now included. So I guess maybe I'm just lucky?

[@aharkness5657]

Ah, the old sparks from the screen. Just like I had one my Ender 5. Classic. That one had PSU mounting screwes (from the factory!) that reached inside and touched the live rails on the power supply, so the frame was actually live. Didn't notice except when the screen was off the frame or wire unplugged. Because they also hadn't grounded the frame on the AC side.

[@Jake-mc4zk]

I got the CR6SE from KS and it it’s my first and only 3D printer. As a complete beginner I find it very easy to use. The auto-levelling feature as standard and the dual Z axis was what convinced me to spend the extra money on this midrange printer. As a Kickstarter backer I paid €337, including shipping to Europe. I got my printer 6 weeks after they shipped it, as Creality indicated. Having no previous experience with 3D printing I have very little comparison, but while I think this machine is certainly not perfect, it prints reasonably well out of the box and the learning curve is not too steep for me. The bed scratching isn’t great obviously, and I think I’ve seen some black flakes stuck to the bottom of my (white) prints, so indeed that’s a bummer. But tbh nothing I can’t live with. Overall, I’m pretty pleased with the CR6SE. I’m much more worried about justifying buying a 3D printer in general than whether this particular model was the right choice. That being said, great video, and now I know what to look for in my next printer! ;)

[@morrielewin1554]

Just spent my first weekend with my Ender 3 V2. My first print was the included cat model from Creality (over 6 hours). While I know I should have gone with a smaller test print, it was after midnight and figured I would have a model in the morning to look at. I got lucky! The included Creality filament (white PLA) made for a beautifully smooth model, no obvious issues. I printed the Benchy next (downloaded from Thingiverse) after using Cura for the first time to slice the .stl file; also resulted in a gorgeous print! I did run into bed leveling issues after printing smaller models and learning do's and don'ts. Thank you for this review as it was instrumental to helping me choose the Ender 3 V2. The Prusa Mini was my first choice, but price and availability (14 week lead time!) pushed me to the Ender. Maybe a Prusa for my next filament printer? We shall see. Very happy with the Ender 3 V2 as my first exposure to 3D printing.

[@hpjk772]

I've got a CR-6. Thank God it's a post kickstarter model, 32bit motherboard (but only 4.5.2 not yet version 4.5.3), good power switch. I'm running the community firmware on it and I printed the filament guide and bed pulls pretty much right away. Here's the thing: Prints have been pretty good right off the bat. Auto-levelling works amazing and the community firmware is giving me the freedom to dial in my ideal Z-offset (unlike Creality's prettier but limited firmware). The printer has been running non-stop (and I mean non-stop, except a couple minutes for switching spools and SD-cards) for eight weeks now. I think the original version has been an embarrassment but the printer I got is not. I love it. One caveat though: So far, I has been a lot easier to get replacement parts and tuning parts for Ender models. I really hope the CR-6 can gain enough momentum after that terrible start to warrant more choice in that field.

[@artiem5262]

I've had an Ender 3 v2 for a few months (4 or so kg of mostly PLA). I've added a BLTouch (and supporting firmware), which is a vast improvement in printing. The big things I've learned -- Slow down! Take your time! Respect the ritual (pre-printing checklist, mostly around bed prep). Prototype -- if possible do a test print to validate assumptions or key aspects. I can do a few iterations of 3 hour test prints, rather than waiting for a 26 hour print to complete and then finding a problem. And I can see why people end up with more than one of these things! There are some designs I want to work on (do test/proto prints) now, but my printer is about 7 hours into a 30 hour print so I need to wait. Thanks for your videos!

[@Jaloja]

My first printer was a Reprap kit. Not a good one either! I got it it going and it prints to this day. My second printer was a Ender 3 V2 and I won the good choice lottery on that move. I used it for over a year before a cooling fan on the top section of the extruder died and it was so quiet when it did work I didn't know it died.. But the filament jams told me it was... I just upgrade the firmware and now have a 5 point manual level setting and that I love!

[@ir.r.t.stellendam8759]

Just ordered my first Ender 3 V2. But now my supplier tells me they discovered a main issue with the Ender 3 V2, and sent the whole lot back to Creality. During a long print job layer shifting occurs. Probably caused by overheating the stepper motor driver. They contacted Creality about this issue, but Creality does not have a solution and can't confirm the cause of the issue. So be careful when buying the Ender 3 V2 right now, wait till the issues are solved !!!

[@eagleeyedesigns]

I have 2 Ender 3 Pro's and have just added a new Ender 3 V2 to my "farm." I have changed out the boards on the 2 Pros with the 32 bit silents. They have been my constant gotos for about 2 and a half years now. I have learned alot from those two, and have even built about 4-5 of my coworkers machines for them. The Ender 3 V2 on the other hand is a game changer. I find it to be a more intuitive machine. Yes, basic from the factory you have to manually head height and such, but since I popped on a BLTouch, I really haven't even needed to do any readjustments. Prints pop off easily after cooling for a short amount of time. Can't say I'm disappointed by the V2. Well, maybe Creality could have installed the metal extruder instead of the cheap plastic one that comes on it now. The part is 15-20 bucks and wouldn't really be a dealbreaker for those who know the printer's capabilities and are going to replace it anyway.

[@Krachttutorials]

Thank you for this video! I ordered a CR6-SE, but as soon as I saw the videos about the smoke and sparks, I canceled the order and bought a used ender 3 V2 instead.

[@jamespatterson7458]

Just picked up a CR-6 SE yesterday. Perfect results.....well worth the extra dollars.

[@Aarmadale]

its a great video pointing out alot of the obvious flaws that really have no right to have not been caught in development in the cr6se but i think overall youll see a longer lifespan in that glass bed (the metal clips tend to warp the bed after a while compared to the plastic ones) the latching extruder is honestly a huge QOL improvement that i didnt think id like as much as i do and dear god the daughter board on the hotend is a godsend if i have to wire another thermistor through a wiring loom ever again i will lose my mind

[@mykolazamkovoi7722]

Ironically, I've almost started a return process of CR-6 SE after seeing all this negative KZbin videos, but seller already shipped it. However, after carefully considering all the reports of people that got a surprisingly stable machine, I've decided to try my luck. Returning to AliExpress seller was also not the greatest option, since there are always a risk to get nothing back. Surprisingly, machine worked well out of the box. Zero problems the others have reported. To be on the safe side I've checked all electrical connections and power switch. Everything works fine for 36+ hours of printing with PLA and PETG (knocks on wood). I've ordered a decent 10A rated switch and silent fans (mostly from Sunon and Noctua with same CFM, but lower dBm's). For Octoprint I am going to cut 5V rail on the cable, for safety will crimp heater-related cables that goes to motherboard. I would not recommend this printer for beginner, since it has a lot of hidden issues. On the other side, one should apply same electrical mods to Ender V2 and get mostly silent fans and still get some hidden issues. Auto-level is good, set-and-forget style. After my self-build Kossel Mini with 300+ hours of tinkering and manual bed-leveling Delta style ;) this machine is a breeze, print quality is outstanding out of the box with no adjustments.

[@dabuzz6611]

I have the CR-6 SE from the Kickstarter campaign and it printed great out of the box. 3 weeks later the power switch burnt out and I had to replace it. Not a big deal, but as Thomas said, for a company like Creality, they should have gotten the R & D right and caught some of these issues.

[@Krytern]

I have a v2. I really like it so I bought a second one.

[@rocket_goblin7755]

i got the SE purely for the auto leveling bit, love it no issues and im seeing some silky smooth prints once dialed in.

[@ajaybnl]

I am having Ender3 v2 after my Anet A8 for 5 Years, Best Prints from the first day on Ender 3v2 compared to daily problems with Anet A8.

[@A1N0]

I bought a CR-6 SE and I'm in the process of returning it. I have other 3D printers, including a Prusa i3 MK2.5S. I mainly got this because I liked the idea of a stress sensor for bed leveling. Oh, if only it worked. It doesn't. I contacted Creality, and went back and forth many times. It was check this bolt, reinstall the firmware, send a KZbin video of the problem, on and on. When I finally demanded to return it, then they would send me some replacement parts, but it would take a month or more to get them, then STILL I would have to disassemble this printer to fix it, maybe. It's like if you bought a new car and the air conditioning didn't work, and they said, don't worry, in a month we will send you a new air conditioner you can install yourself. If that wasn't bad enough, there is switches that catch fire, an opto sensor that never seems to work for anyone, etc. etc. This thing is a work-in-progress, at best. The display doesn't even tell you the time left, and just basic functions are missing. For a company that has sold so many printers, I was surprised. The firmware was rushed, for sure. So I moved on. Instead I bought a Prusa i3 MK3S+ on Black Friday. Yes, I do think these things are overpriced, and they can have problems also (MMU 1 & 2) but they generally try to fix them, and firmware and slicer are so much better. Yes, the kit was twice the cost of the CR-6, and the mesh bed leveling works on the metal, NOT the surface, but I can live with that. I hear so much about Creality, but I wasn't impressed.

[@Sponk994]

From Italy I love your videos! and love the transparency you put in reviewing the printers! I use the ender 3 v2 as my main 3d printer daily, even for academic research matter. Have been able to print most common materials FAST and with the stock machine. It works flawless with PLA, ASA, PET and even PP and some harder Flexibles. Now i'm printing CFPA and GFPP just by upgrading to a new heat break and nozzle :) thank you for your advices, keep spreading the word !!

[@JimPBarber]

Thanks Tom, you helped me dodge a bullet! I use my Creality machines for production work in my small print farm. I was considering going with the CR-6 for the bed leveling. Now I think I will just add bed leveling to some V2 machines instead. I can not afford to have printers that produce less than perfect prints consistently or that are going to die. Thank you so much!

[@naturalgamerjk606]

How’s the ender 3v2s?

[@an1ma169]

I backed the cr6, complete 3d printing n00b, although I do have a cpl CNC machines so familiar with the work flow, must say I'm nothing but impressed so far, not had a failed print yet. I've done a number of functional prints; radius gauge, spacers, hose adapters & a cpl of trickier prints for the home, a twisted & fluted geometric vase, and some small Voronoi cactii pots, all drawn up in Rhino. The pots were a little stringy admittedly, but cleaned up with minimal effort. Interesting comment about the conservative feeds and speeds, maybe it's time to step away from 'default' and venture down the rabbit hole 😄

[@Crafty_Chops]

I got the Ender 3 v2 a few months ago and I love it. Besides a warped glass bed and those wimpy bed springs which I replaced, I haven't had too many issues

[@mykehdoom]

I replaced my springs and knobs with solid bed mounts and nylon nuts. Never have to adjust springs or knobs ever again.

[@grahamdwells]

got the E3 V2, it is a nice printer indeed. Loud tho. Would love a video on making iun quieter.

[@ryanr2n2yc]

absolutely love my ender 3 v2! just talked my buddy out of the ender 5 and getting the 3 v2

[@pr0xZen]

$135 in Ender 3v2 upgrades is like a bltouch, an ok dual gear direct extruder and an all metal hotend.

[@Krytern]

Don't really need the dual z motor though.

[@tomaskonkol8894]

@@Krytern believe you need t dual z and specialy for direct extruder

[@pr0xZen]

@@tomaskonkol8894 Yeah if you're going direct, dual-gear extruder, maybe even a volcano hotend with larger fan(s) and ducting for partfæs cooling - that adds a significant amount of mass (and inertia) to your print head.

[@patmoore9474]

Hey Tom! Great review! I have a CR-6 SE. Other than needing to replace the weak power switch, I have had no serious issues. I will admit to feeling like I was one of the lucky ones, though. It prints great and the bed leveling system is superior. I think one of the other commenters said it best. Put the CR-6 SE bed leveling on the Ender-3 V2 and you have an amazing printer. While I am clearly enjoying the CR-6, I think it's about $100 more expensive than it should be.

[@Cleanblue1990]

Now I regret backing up the CR-6SE printer. Haven't done any print as I have been fighting with the support for a replacement main board I'm finally about to receive.

[@lfrederic1823]

Excellent video , spot on comments about all the malfunctions of Cr-6 SE itself and it’s Kickstarter (from a very dissatisfied Kickstarter backer) One thing Tom failed mentioning is that the theoretically excellent auto bed leveling just doesn’t work. The bed flexes under load so corners are always overcompensated since the nozzle pushed the bed , and it is almost impossible to print large objects

[@Sebazzz1991]

That is rubbish. The ABL works perfectly, also in the corners. If your bed flexes, the threshold of the strain gauge is set too high or you need to tighten the eccentric nuts.

[@7t3chguy]

Ftr if you update the E3V2's firmware to a custom Marlin build using Marlin's default config for the E3V2 you will get a white outline around the selected menu item which helps with the poor off-angle contrast.

[@AJDaun]

Have a Ender V2, added bed leveling and flex mag bed, and it is fantastic.

[@sonatbalak6568]

I've been wanting to buy a 3D printer and this video really helped me to know which one to choose.

[@mercer982]

Prusa i3 it is right?

[@bracco23]

Bro, I was just messing around with what 3D printer to buy as my first one and the Ender 3 v2 is definitely a candidate. The timing here is amazing.

[@andyflyprint5628]

Gestern den cr6se aufgebaut unter 30 Minuten. Den typischen freeze wie Joel beim homen gehabt und das Bett gelevelt. Der Saurier war der erste Druck und was soll ich sagen, ich bin begeistert. Er liefert aus dem Stand eine gute Qualität, besser als der 3pro oder der Sapphire Pro. Wohlgemerkt ohne Firmware update. Die Zeit die ich gestern noch für einen Druckkollegen gebraucht habe um das Offset beim 3V2 mit BLtouch einzustellen, hätte ich locker nochmal 10 zusammenbauen können. Da liegt eben der Vorteil oder die Benutzerfreundlichkeit, der cr6se macht das Autoleveln einfach einfacher. Gut wir Bastelbrüder und Damen wir modden gern mehr aber vom Aufbau und reinem einstellen ist der cr6se in meinen Augen besser und schneller bereit wirklich zu drucken

[@ckthmpson]

So now I'm on the fence. Thinking about getting into the 3D printing hobby and was going to go with the CR6 SE primarily because it the auto bed leveling. After watching this review, now leaning towards the Ender 3 v2. Have a budget of $400-$500 USD for this. Will be brand new to 3D printing. In the beginning, will likely be just printing whatever to get familiar with the 3D printing process. Further down the road, my son is interested in model aircraft, so considering what options have with 3D printer for printing model aircraft parts. Note that I live in Japan where the AC power here is 100V @ 50hz. Appreciate any comments or thoughts in this regard. So glad I came across this channel.

[@cardblower]

The CR6-SE together with the latest Community Firmware (V6 as of now) is now a totally different beast and more resembles the promised printer than ever :-)

[@paulm5873]

I have been looking for this comparison all week

[@carmineinserra]

I think I know what the sparking was on the 6se for the other user you mentioned. The USB port is not just data, it has power connected to it also. . . as in, if you connect it to a computer (or in my case a Raspberry running OctoPi), it will power the mainboard and display even with the 6se's power turned off. That really shouldn't happen. If the two are plugged into different outlets, then there's a chance they don't share a common ground. . . and that could be an issue. I'll also add that when controlling the 6se through the USB port, the filament sensor does NOTHING. . . it is only interacting with the main on-board controller when that controller is being used for printing.

[@kuehleperson1115]

I have an Ender 3 V2 and I will have to send it back because it has an technical issue.

[@bonamin]

This was literally a perfect video. Thank you for the detailed explanation. This really cleared my mind.

[@janvenken4719]

Got my CR6 Se days ago and really happy with it. But I'm guessing the version I got has taken care of all off the early flaws in construction/software. Still struggling with the slicer settings for the supports but that's part off the fun I think.

[@theshootingsensei1464]

I got the Ender V2 as my first printer. It’s taking all of my boneheaded mistakes like champ. It runs great don’t really have to worry about it. All the failures have been my fault.

[@jz2188]

lots of CR-6 issues in the FB group, about 8 fixes now to do when it arrives based on their videos so far

[@jdpartyhat4067]

Thanks for the insights Tom. I wonder if the bed leveling load cell is some how involved with the print issues on that new CR-6 SE...