The Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus outperforms the Space Pi with dual-spool capacity and a 160W heater, ideal for diverse filament needs at $89.00. For budget users, the $65.99 Space Pi reliably dries one spool.
If you’re serious about 3D printing, you know that moisture is the enemy of high-quality prints. Even the best filament can underperform if it’s been exposed to humidity. That’s where filament dryers like the Creality Space Pi and Space Pi Plus come in. But with two similar-sounding models on the market from Creality, how do you know which one is right for your setup?
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Let’s dive into this in-depth comparison of Creality Space PI vs Space Pi Plus to help you make the best choice for your setup. If you’re new to 3D printing, check out our guide on choosing the best 3D printer for beginners.
Why Drying Filament Matters
Moisture in filament can cause all sorts of printing nightmares—like stringing, blobbing, and even failed prints. When filament absorbs moisture, it expands and releases steam during printing, messing with the melting process. A good filament dryer ensures your filament stays dry, leading to smoother, more consistent prints. Both the Creality Space PI and Space Pi Plus are designed to tackle this issue head-on, but they come with different features to suit different needs. Curious about filament types? Learn more about 3D printing filaments.
Creality Space PI vs Space Pi Plus
Overview of Creality Space PI Filament Dryer
The Creality Space PI Filament Dryer is a compact, single-spool dryer perfect for hobbyists or those with just one 3D printer. It features a 110W PTC heater that provides 360° hot-air heating, ensuring even drying across the entire spool. A built-in fan circulates the hot air, making sure every part of the filament gets properly dried. The 3.7-inch touch screen makes it easy to set your drying parameters, with one-key presets for 12 filament types (like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and more). You can adjust the temperature from 45°C to 70°C and set drying times up to 48 hours. It also has a power-off memory function, so it remembers your settings after a power outage.
Priced at $65.99, it’s an affordable option for anyone looking to keep their filament in top shape without breaking the bank.
User Feedback
Users love the Space PI for its affordability and effectiveness. One reviewer said, “It works great, it says up to 70°C, my thermometer says 69-71°C” .
Overview of Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus
The Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus steps things up with its dual-spool capacity, allowing you to dry two 1kg rolls of filament at once. This makes it ideal for users with multiple printers or those who frequently switch between filament types. It packs a more powerful 160W PTC heater, which means faster and more efficient drying. The 4-inch touch screen offers a larger, clearer display for easier navigation, and like the Space PI, it supports one-key settings for 12 filament types with the same temperature range (45°C-70°C) and drying time (0-48 hours). It also includes four filament holes and PTFE tubes for drying filament for two printers simultaneously.
At $89.00, it’s a bit more expensive, but the added capacity and power make it a strong contender for serious 3D printing enthusiasts.
User Feedback
The Space Pi Plus gets high praise for its dual capacity. One user noted, “I like it because it also acts as dry storage and you can quickly swap filaments” .
Detailed Comparison
Let’s break down the key differences between the Creality Space PI vs Creality Space Pi Plus to help you decide.
Design and Build Quality
Both dryers share a sleek, modern design that fits well on any workbench. The Space PI is smaller and lighter (1.5 kg), while the Space Pi Plus is slightly bulkier (1.9 kg) to accommodate two spools. Both are made from durable materials, with the Plus using ABS for added sturdiness. However, user reviews highlight some build quality concerns. For the Space PI, a few users reported fan bearing issues or inaccurate temperature readings .
Capacity
The biggest difference is capacity. The Space PI holds one spool, making it ideal for single-printer setups. The Space Pi Plus can handle two spools, which is perfect if you have multiple printers or want to dry different filament types simultaneously. This makes the Plus more versatile for advanced users.
Heating and Drying Performance
The Space PI uses a 110W PTC heater, while the Space Pi Plus has a 160W PTC heater. The extra power in the Plus means faster heating and potentially quicker drying, especially for larger or wetter spools. Both offer the same 45°C-70°C temperature range and 0-48 hour drying time, so they’re equally flexible in settings. Users confirm both are effective, but the Plus might have an edge for speed .
User Interface
Both dryers feature touch screens for easy operation. The Space PI has a 3.7-inch screen, while the Space Pi Plus has a 4-inch screen. The larger screen on the Plus is easier to read and navigate, especially for frequent adjustments. Both support one-key presets for filaments like PLA, ABS, and PETG, making them beginner-friendly. Some users noted the Plus screen can be overly sensitive .
Noise Level
Noise is a consideration for some users. The Space PI has a noticeable fan hum, described as “annoying if in the same room” . There’s less information on the Space Pi Plus, but its more powerful fan might be slightly louder. If noise is a concern, consider placing the dryer in a separate area.
Power Consumption
Both dryers are energy-efficient, but the Space Pi Plus uses more power due to its 160W heater compared to the Space PI’s 110W. Since dryers are only used periodically, the difference in electricity cost is minimal for most users.
Portability
The Space PI is lighter and more compact, making it easier to move around your workspace. The Space Pi Plus is bulkier but still manageable. If you frequently rearrange your setup, the Space PI might be more convenient.
Price and Value
The Space PI costs $65.99, making it a budget-friendly choice for single-spool drying. The Space Pi Plus is $89.00, about $23 more. The extra cost is justified if you need dual capacity or faster drying, but for basic needs, the Space PI offers great value.
Pros and Cons
Creality Space PI Filament Dryer
✅ Pros:
- Affordable at $65.99
- Effective for drying a single spool
- Compact and easy to use with a 3.7-inch touch screen
- Supports a wide range of filaments
❌ Cons:
- Limited to one spool
- Some users reported fan durability issues
Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus
✅ Pros:
- Dual-spool capacity for drying two spools at once
- More powerful 160W heater for faster drying
- Larger 4-inch touch screen for easier navigation
- Ideal for users with multiple printers
❌ Cons:
- Higher price at $89.00
- Some units had screen defects (replacements provided)
Comparison Table
Feature | Creality Space PI | Creality Space Pi Plus |
---|---|---|
Capacity | 1 spool | 2 spools |
Power | 110W | 160W |
Screen Size | 3.7″ | 4″ |
Temperature Range | 45°C-70°C | 45°C-70°C |
Drying Time | 0-48 hours | 0-48 hours |
Weight | 1.5 kg | 1.9 kg |
Price | $65.99 | $89.00 |
Buy Now | Buy Space PI | Buy Space Pi Plus |
How to Use Your Filament Dryer
Using a filament dryer is simple. Place your spool inside, ensuring it’s secure on the rollers. Select the filament type from the presets or manually set the temperature (usually 45°C-60°C) and drying time (12-24 hours for most filaments). Close the lid and let the dryer work its magic. You can monitor the process via the touch screen. For tips on storing filament, check out our guide on filament storage.
Why Choose Creality?
Creality is a trusted name in 3D printing, known for quality printers and accessories at affordable prices. Both the Space PI and Space Pi Plus come with Creality’s standard warranty and responsive customer support. Users have praised their quick response to issues like cracked screens or faulty fans .
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Investing in a filament dryer might seem like an extra expense, but a single failed print due to wet filament can cost you time and material. With a dryer, you ensure every print starts with dry filament, saving you from wasted efforts. The Space PI is a low-cost entry point, while the Space Pi Plus offers more features for a slightly higher price.
Which One Should You Pick?
Choosing between the Creality Space PI vs Creality Space Pi Plus depends on your needs. If you have one 3D printer and don’t need to dry multiple spools, the Space PI is a budget-friendly, effective choice. Its compact size and lower price make it ideal for beginners or hobbyists. However, if you have multiple printers or frequently switch filaments, the Space Pi Plus is worth the extra $23 for its dual-spool capacity and faster drying. The larger screen and more powerful heater add convenience for advanced users.
Rating Table
Based on user reviews and performance:
Model | Rating |
---|---|
Creality Space PI | 4.4/5 stars (817 reviews) |
Creality Space Pi Plus | 4.5/5 stars (4,759 reviews) |
FAQs
Can I use these dryers with any type of filament?
Yes, both support filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and more, with presets for 12 types.
How long does it take to dry filament?
It depends on moisture levels, but 12-24 hours is typical. Both allow settings up to 48 hours.
Are there maintenance requirements?
Minimal. Check the fan and heater periodically. Creality’s support is responsive for issues.
Can I store filament in these dryers?
They’re primarily for drying, but short-term storage is possible. Use dedicated storage for long-term.
Is the Space Pi Plus worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you need dual-spool drying or faster performance. Otherwise, the Space PI is sufficient.
Conclusion
In the battle of Creality Space PI Filament Dryer vs Creality Space Pi Filament Dryer Plus, both are excellent tools for keeping your 3D printing filaments dry. However, the Space Pi Plus comes out on top for most users. Its dual-spool capacity, 160W heater, and larger screen make it a versatile choice for those with multiple printers or diverse filament needs. While it’s pricier at $89.00, the added features justify the cost. If you’re on a tight budget or only need to dry one spool, the Space PI at $65.99 is a fantastic option that delivers reliable performance.
Whichever you choose, you’ll be taking a big step toward flawless 3D prints. Ready to upgrade your setup? Grab your dryer now and say goodbye to moisture issues!