The Creality Hi ($399) is ideal for budget-conscious beginners and single-color enthusiasts, delivering high-speed, high-quality printing. The Hi Combo ($549) suits advanced users with its multicolor CFS. Both offer great performance, but check for rare DOA issues on delivery.
Imagine you’re a hobbyist eager to craft a multicolor cosplay helme or a startup founder needing rapid prototypes. Navigating the 3D printing world can feel daunting, but Creality’s Hi and Hi Combo printers stand out as affordable, high-speed options from a trusted brand. With over 15 years as a tech writer, I’ve tested countless printers, and these models cater to everyone—from US-based beginners to advanced makers in Canada, the UK, or Australia. This article compares the Creality Hi and Hi Combo to guide your purchase, blending technical depth with accessible explanations. Ready to print?
Overview of Creality Hi vs Hi Combo
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The Creality Hi and Hi Combo are Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printers built for speed and simplicity. Both deliver a maximum print speed of 500 mm/s, a robust all-metal frame, and automated features like bed leveling and filament detection. The Hi Combo includes the Creality Filament System (CFS), a smart module supporting up to 16 colors for multicolor printing, while the Hi requires a separate CFS purchase.
- Pricing: The Creality Hi costs $399.00, appealing to budget-conscious users. The Hi Combo, at $549.00 (11% discount), targets those prioritizing multicolor capabilities.
- CFS Explained: Think of the CFS as a filament librarian—it automatically identifies, switches, and stores filaments in a moisture-proof environment using RFID technology. Technically, it supports four CFS units for up to 16 colors with auto-switching and tangle detection.
- User Feedback: Both models score 4.46 out of 5 based on 50 reviews. Users like Daniel Camarillo call the Combo “almost perfection,” but some, like Bob B., report rare DOA units. Creality’s support often resolves issues, as seen in Racer X’s updated 5-star review after a replacement.
Technical Specifications and Features Breakdown
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two printers’ specifications:
| Feature | Creality Hi | Creality Hi Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Image | [Insert Creality Hi Image] | [Insert Creality Hi Combo Image] |
| Build Volume | 260×260×300 mm | 260×260×300 mm |
| Print Speed | 300 mm/s typical, 500 mm/s max | 300 mm/s typical, 500 mm/s max |
| Acceleration | ≤12000 mm/s² | ≤12000 mm/s² |
| Extruder | Direct drive, all-metal hotend | Direct drive, all-metal hotend |
| Nozzle | Tri-metal, 0.4 mm (0.6/0.8 mm optional) | Tri-metal, 0.4 mm (0.6/0.8 mm optional) |
| Nozzle Temperature | ≤300°C | ≤300°C |
| CFS | Not included (optional upgrade) | Included (supports up to 16 colors) |
| Supported Filaments | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PET, PLA-CF* | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PET, PLA-CF* |
| Automation | Auto bed leveling, X-axis tilt reduction, filament run-out sensor, RFID reader | Same as Hi |
| Software | Creality OS (Klipper-based), Creality Print, Creality Cloud | Same as Hi |
| Frame | All-metal, aluminum alloy | All-metal, aluminum alloy |
| Weight | 8.75 kg (net), 11.58 kg (gross) | 13.31 kg (net), 19.14 kg (gross) |
| Price | $399.00 | $549.00 (11% savings) |
| Buy Now | Buy Creality Hi | Buy Creality Hi Combo |
*Note: CFS does not support flexible TPU, damp BVOH/PVA, or warped cardboard spools.
- Beginners: The direct drive extruder pushes filament like a steady hand, reducing clogs. Auto bed leveling is like a self-adjusting table, ensuring prints stick properly. For beginners, this means less setup hassle.
- Advanced Users: Advanced users will value the Field-Oriented Control (FOC) step-servo motors, which use precise algorithms for quiet, smooth motion at high speeds. The Klipper-based Creality OS supports custom G-code and Fluidd web interface tweaks. Active input shaping, a vibration-canceling algorithm, ensures smoother surfaces at 500 mm/s.
- Unique Features: Both printers feature a fold-away touchscreen, a privacy-cap camera, and a tungsten steel filament cutter. The Hi Combo’s CFS adds RFID filament recognition and a digital display for temperature/humidity monitoring.
Setup and User Experience
Both printers are 95% pre-assembled, needing only seven screws and basic wiring to be ready in about 8 minutes—perfect for beginners intimidated by DIY builds. The Hi Combo’s CFS requires additional setup: connecting a PTFE tube, wiring, and a 485 communication line. Creality’s clear boot-up guide makes this manageable, even for novices.
- Ease of Use: One-tap auto-calibration uses a strain gauge to map the bed and dual lead screws to align the X-axis, eliminating manual leveling. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the privacy-cap camera lets you monitor prints remotely.
- Noise Levels: Dynamically balanced fans and linear rails keep noise low (≤48 dB in silent mode), ideal for home or office settings. For noise control tips, see our 3D printer enclosures guide.
- User Feedback: Reviews praise the setup simplicity, with Kindle Customer noting the Combo’s “almost automatic” operation. However, Bob B.’s DOA experience highlights the need for reliable support, which Creality often provides, as seen in Racer X’s case.
Performance and Print Quality
Both printers deliver exceptional print quality, with active input shaping minimizing ringing (ghosting) for crisp details. At 500 mm/s, you can print a standard 3DBenchy in under 20 minutes, rivaling pricier competitors.
- Hi Combo’s Multicolor Edge: The CFS enables up to 16 colors, ideal for vibrant cosplay props or detailed prototypes. Snap-away supports, made from different materials, simplify post-processing, leaving no marks. Limitations include no support for flexible TPU or damp PVA/BVOH. Explore filament compatibility for more.
- Hi’s Single-Color Strength: The Hi matches the Combo’s speed and quality for monochrome prints, perfect for functional parts like drone frames or tabletop miniatures.
- Real-World Insights: Daniel Camarillo’s review calls the Combo “amazing and fast,” with only one user-error issue in 20+ prints. Rare DOA reports suggest inspecting units upon delivery.
Real-World Applications and Use Cases
- Creality Hi: Ideal for beginners or hobbyists creating functional parts (e.g., drone components, educational models) or simple prototypes. Its affordability makes it accessible for students or small startups. See cool things to 3D print for inspiration.
- Creality Hi Combo: Perfect for artists, cosplayers, or small businesses needing vibrant, multicolor prints (e.g., cosplay props, marketing displays). The CFS’s snap-away supports simplify post-processing for complex designs. Check our cosplay filament guide.
Comparison with Competitors
- Vs. Bambu Lab A1 Combo: The A1 Combo offers similar multicolor capabilities with its AMS Lite but lacks the Hi Combo’s enclosed CFS for moisture protection. The Hi Combo’s Klipper firmware provides more customization, while the A1 has more community tutorials .
- Vs. Anycubic Kobra 3 Combo: The Kobra 3 Combo is another multicolor option but lacks the Hi Combo’s all-metal frame and active input shaping. The Hi Combo’s ease of setup gives it an edge for beginners. Compare more in our Kobra 3 Combo review.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both printers feature durable components like tri-metal nozzles and all-metal frames, ensuring long-term reliability. The direct drive extruder reduces clogging, and the CFS’s filament monitoring prevents tangles and run-outs. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the nozzle and checking belts, is recommended. For tips, see our 3D printer maintenance guide. Creality’s robust design minimizes wear, making both models suitable for frequent use.
Software and Ecosystem
Creality’s ecosystem enhances the user experience:
- Creality Print: A slicing software supporting multicolor printing for the Hi Combo, making it easy to design complex models. Learn more in our slicing software guide.
- Creality Cloud: Offers cloud storage, 300+ exclusive models, and faster download speeds with the free 1-year Premium subscription (until June 30, 2025).
- Klipper-based OS: Allows advanced users to tweak settings like pressure advance or input shaping, accessible via the Fluidd web interface.
Community and Support
Creality boasts a vibrant community on platforms like Reddit’s r/Creality, where users share tips, models, and troubleshooting advice. The Creality Wiki provides detailed guides for setup and maintenance. Customer support is generally responsive, as evidenced by Racer X’s positive experience with a replacement CFS unit, though some users report delays in resolving DOA issues.
Future-Proofing
- Creality Hi: Its compatibility with up to four CFS units makes it a flexible choice for users who may want to upgrade to multicolor printing later, ensuring long-term relevance.
- Creality Hi Combo: Already equipped with the CFS, it’s ready for advanced multicolor projects from day one, ideal for users wanting immediate creative flexibility. For future-proofing tips, see how to choose a 3D printer.
Value for Money and Target Audience
- Creality Hi ($399.00): A budget-friendly powerhouse for beginners or hobbyists focused on single-color prints. It’s ideal for printing functional parts, educational models, or simple prototypes. Compared to the Bambu Lab A1, the Hi’s Klipper firmware offers more tinkering potential. See our best beginner 3D printers.
- Creality Hi Combo ($549.00): Suited for advanced users, artists, or small businesses needing multicolor flexibility. The included CFS saves upgrade costs, making it competitive with the Anycubic Kobra 3 Combo. It’s perfect for creative projects like multicolor figurines or marketing displays. Explore multicolor 3D printers.
- Added Value: Both include a free 1-year Creality Cloud Premium subscription, offering 300+ exclusive models and cloud storage.
Pros and Cons
Creality Hi:
- Pros:
- ✅ Affordable at $399.00
- ✅ High-speed printing (500 mm/s) with excellent quality
- ✅ 95% pre-assembled for quick setup
- ✅ Auto-leveling simplifies operation
- ✅ Durable all-metal frame
- Cons:
- ❌ No CFS; multicolor requires extra purchase
- ❌ Limited to single-color prints without upgrades
Creality Hi Combo:
- Pros:
- ✅ Includes CFS for 16-color multicolor printing
- ✅ Matches Hi’s speed and quality
- ✅ Snap-away supports enhance creativity
- ✅ Easy setup despite CFS components
- Cons:
- ❌ Higher price at $549.00
- ❌ Rare DOA issues reported
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the Creality Hi and Creality Hi Combo 3D printers?
The primary difference is that the Creality Hi Combo includes the Creality Filament System (CFS) for multicolor printing with up to 16 colors, while the Creality Hi is limited to single-color printing unless upgraded with a separate CFS. The Hi costs $399.00, and the Combo is $549.00.
Is the Creality Hi Combo worth the extra cost for beginners?
For beginners focused on simple, single-color prints, the Creality Hi at $399.00 offers excellent value with high-speed printing and easy setup. The Hi Combo’s $549.00 price is better suited for those wanting multicolor capabilities, like cosplay or art projects, but may be overkill for basic needs.
Can the Creality Hi be upgraded to support multicolor printing?
Yes, the Creality Hi is compatible with the Creality Filament System (CFS), which can be purchased separately to enable multicolor printing with up to 16 colors, offering a future-proof option for users who start with single-color printing.
Conclusion
The Creality Hi is likely the best choice for budget-conscious beginners or single-color enthusiasts, offering high-speed, high-quality printing at $399.00. The Hi Combo, at $549.00, seems ideal for advanced users or creatives wanting multicolor flexibility with its included CFS. Both printers deliver exceptional performance, though rare DOA issues suggest checking units upon delivery.
Transform your ideas into reality with the Creality Hi or Creality Hi Combo on Amazon. Visit the Creality Wiki for more details and join the Creality community for support. For more 3D printing projects, check out our DIY 3D printed decor guide. With Creality’s innovation, 3D printing is more accessible than ever—your next masterpiece awaits.
Buy Now
Buy Creality Hi | Buy Creality Hi Combo
Key Citations
- Creality Hi 3D Printer on Amazon
- Creality Hi Combo 3D Printer on Amazon
- Creality Official Store
- Creality Wiki Knowledge-Sharing Platform
- Creality Hi Combo vs. Bambu Lab A1 Comparison
- Reddit r/Creality Community
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