Test of the Artillery X4 Plus 3D printer

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In the world of 3D printing, the Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus is positioned as a top-of-the-range machine, offering an impressive combination of speed, precision and print volume. For 3D modelling enthusiasts, this printer is an ideal solution that promises exceptional performance. After several weeks of intensive testing, here’s my detailed review of this 3D printer.

Unpacking and assembly

As soon as you open the box, you’re immediately struck by the quality of the packaging. Each component is carefully packaged to prevent damage during transport. The printer arrives 98% pre-assembled, which considerably reduces assembly time. By following the quick guide, the rest of the assembly is child’s play even for non-do-it-yourselfers. In less than 30 minutes, the printer was ready for use.

Technical specifications

• Print volume: 300 x 300 x 400 mm
• X/Y axis: Precise linear guide rails
• Maximum speed: 500 mm/s
• Extruder: Dual Gear Direct Drive
• Hotend: Metal, up to 300°C
• Control: Wi-Fi, 4.3″ touch screen
• Printing technology: FFF/FDM/LPD
• OS compatibility: Windows 7+, Mac OS X 10.7+
• Formats supported: STL, OBJ, PLY

With specifications like these, the Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus is a highly versatile machine, capable of meeting the needs of a wide range of users, from hobbyists to professionals.

Commissioning and calibration

Setting up the Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus is made easy by automatic levelling of the platter to 121 points. This feature is particularly useful for beginners, eliminating the need for laborious manual adjustments. Once the calibration is complete, you can start your first print.

First print with the Artillery X4 Plus

There are a number of test models on the machine’s SD card, so we naturally started this test with a PLA Benchy. Printing goes off without a hitch

For the rest of the prints, we continued with the test models supplied with the machine.
The 2nd print was a tool storage box, printed in PLA in just over 6 hours, and the result was impeccable, with a very nice first layer thanks to the textured plate.

We continued this test with the Gcode files supplied with the printer, and the results were really satisfactory, with no apparent defects, no wrapping and very smooth parts.

Speed and reliability

The maximum print speed of 500 mm/s is one of this machine’s strong points. Even at high speeds, prints remain of high quality thanks to the linear guide rails and integrated resonance sensors. The 12,000 mm/s² acceleration allows fast starts and stops without compromising accuracy.

Connectivity and software

The printer is compatible with several popular slicers, including Cura and Simplify3D. Wi-Fi connectivity adds a practical dimension, enabling prints to be managed and monitored remotely. The new 4.3-inch touch screen is intuitive and responsive, making it easier than ever to set up and monitor print jobs.

Advanced features

• All-metal 300°C hotend: Perfect for high-temperature filaments such as nylon and ABS.
• Dual Gear Direct Drive Extruder: Ensures accurate and reliable extrusion for a variety of filament types.
• 121-point automatic levelling: Simplifies start-up and ensures a perfect first layer.
• Integrated resonance sensor: Reduces vibrations for stable prints even at high speeds.

Feedback and User Reviews

Users praise the speed, print quality and ease of use of the Sidewinder X4 Plus. Some have experienced initial challenges with auto-levelling, but these have been quickly resolved thanks to effective online support. The user community is active and ready to help, which is a huge plus for new owners.

The Artillery Sidewinder X4 Plus is an impressive 3D printer that stands out for its performance, ease of use and advanced features. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this printer offers an exceptional combination of speed, accuracy and high print volume, while remaining affordable.