At a Glance
- Elegoo Carbon 2 launches today with a color-filament changer and a 350 °C nozzle.
- The printer adds a 5-inch touchscreen, RFID auto-recognition, and a smarter temperature controller.
- Calibration is 13.9 % faster and the machine runs at just 45 decibels.
- Why it matters: It turns a budget-friendly printer into a versatile, low-noise workstation for hobbyists and pros alike.
The new Elegoo Carbon 2 arrives with a host of upgrades that push a budget 3D printer into the realm of advanced, color-ready machines. Elegoo has long been praised for its affordable models, with the Centauri Carbon chosen as the best budget printer and the Mars 4 and Saturn 4 topping the starter and midsize resin categories. The Carbon 2 builds on that reputation by adding a filament changer, a high-temperature nozzle, and a host of smart controls.
Filament Changer and RFID Recognition
Elegoo’s most visible change is the filament changer that sits on the printer frame. It can hold up to four colors or materials and swaps them automatically during a print. The system offers:
- Instant loading and automatic backup when a filament runs out.
- RFID tags on each spool that let the printer identify the material and recommend the proper temperature and retraction settings.
James Bricknell, News Of Los Angeles managing editor and 3D printing expert, said, “Even if the Centauri 2 is just the first Centauri with a color system attached, it’ll likely be worth the price of admission,” adding, “I have it in my workshop, and my testing should be complete in the coming weeks.” The ability to print multi-color objects without manual intervention is a game-changer for hobbyists who want to experiment with complex designs.
Nozzle, Temperature Control, and Grille Design
The Carbon 2 replaces the 320 °C hardened steel nozzle from its predecessor with a new 350 °C version. This upgrade gives the printer better heat tolerance and wear resistance, allowing it to handle high-performance filaments that require higher extrusion temperatures.
A new grille design powers a smarter temperature controller. The system automatically adjusts chamber airflow by opening and closing shutters. For example, when printing with PLA, the shutters open at a lower temperature, whereas the previous model required the user to manually open the door. The result is a more consistent print environment and fewer temperature-related errors.
| Feature | Previous Carbon | Carbon 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temp | 320 °C | 350 °C |
| Filament changer | None | 4-color automatic |
| Temperature controller | Manual shutters | Automatic airflow |
Touchscreen, Language Support, and User Interface
The 5-inch capacitive touchscreen is upgraded to support 11 languages and is designed to be friendly for first-time users. The interface provides clear prompts for filament loading, bed leveling, and print monitoring. The larger screen also makes it easier to navigate the printer’s settings without the need for a separate computer.
Calibration, Noise, and Performance
The Centauri Carbon 2 Combo adds four precise sensors and a new zone-leveling mode. The calibration process is 13.9 % quicker, reducing prep time and allowing users to start printing sooner. The machine also operates at just 45 decibels, a noticeable drop in noise that makes it suitable for office or home environments.
The combination of faster calibration, quieter operation, and color capability positions the Carbon 2 as a compelling choice for users who want a budget printer that doesn’t compromise on advanced features.
Overall Impression
Elegoo’s strategy with the Carbon 2 is clear: deliver high-end functionality at an affordable price point. The addition of a multi-color filament changer, RFID recognition, a hotter nozzle, and a smarter temperature controller shows that the brand is listening to the needs of serious hobbyists and small-scale pros.
For those who have relied on the original Centauri Carbon for basic prints, the Carbon 2 offers a substantial upgrade without a dramatic price hike. The 5-inch touchscreen and improved user interface make it approachable, while the quieter operation and faster calibration keep it efficient.
In a market crowded with single-color, entry-level printers, the Elegoo Carbon 2 stands out as a versatile, low-noise, and color-ready machine that can grow with a user’s skill level.
Key Takeaways
- The Carbon 2 adds a 4-color filament changer with RFID auto-recognition.
- A 350 °C nozzle expands material options.
- Smart temperature control and a 5-inch touchscreen improve usability.
- Calibration is 13.9 % faster and noise drops to 45 decibels.
- Elegoo continues to make budget printers that compete with higher-end models.
