The Original Prusa Mini+ has always been pitched as the smaller, budget-friendly sibling of the well-known Prusa i3 MK3S. But don’t let the word mini fool you. Since its launch, it’s built a reputation for delivering dependable print quality in a compact footprint. Now that we’re in 2025, it’s worth asking: does the Mini+ still hold its ground against newer, faster competitors, or is it starting to show its age?
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The much-loved Prusa Mini was first announced in late 2019 as a compact, lower-cost alternative to the i3 line. It was priced to be more accessible without cutting back on Prusa’s trademark reliability. In 2020, the Mini+ update rolled out, adding the improved SuperPINDA probe for more accurate first layers and tweaks that made assembly even easier.
The Mini+’s launch reception was very positive, with multiple Prusa reviews praising its balance of affordability and consistent print quality. It quickly became known as an ideal entry-level printer that didn’t feel cheap. The community response was equally strong: forums and social groups were filled with users sharing profiles, troubleshooting tips, and print showcases. Even years later, the Mini+ remains a favorite among beginners and veterans who want a small, dependable printer in their lineup.
One of the best things about the Mini+ is how beginner-friendly it feels from the moment you take it out of the box. The printer comes with a pre-assembled kit, with the base and vertical axis ready to bolt together. The clear instructions and Prusa’s active online community make setup approachable even if you’ve never touched a 3D printer before. You’ll have it printing within an hour, and the included sample filament helps you get started immediately.
True to Prusa’s reputation, the Mini+ is built with sturdy parts that don’t feel like cost-cutting compromises. Its compact 180 × 180 × 180 mm build volume is plenty for small to medium projects, especially for hobbyists, makers, and educators. While it can’t compete with massive machines like the Anycubic Kobra Max, the smaller build area means faster heat-up times and shorter print durations.
The color LCD screen and intuitive interface still hold up in 2025, making day-to-day use straightforward. Even after years on the market, its reliability continues to be a selling point.
| Stage | Time Estimate | Key Challenges | Tips/Notes |
| Attaching base frame | 10–15 minutes | Aligning the vertical axis | Tighten bolts evenly to avoid skew |
| Mounting print head | 5–10 minutes | Securing wiring neatly | Follow the labels for quick connections |
| Installing display | 5 minutes | Routing cable without kinks | Use clips to keep wiring tidy |
| Adding spool holder | 2–3 minutes | Positioning for easy filament | Place it where filament feeds smoothly |
| Connecting PSU | 2–3 minutes | Handling cables carefully | Double-check polarity and fit |
| Initial calibration | 5–8 minutes | Setting Z-offset correctly | Follow on-screen prompts |
Altogether, assembly typically takes under an hour even for first-time users.
The Mini+ has always been known for its crisp details and consistent output, and that hasn’t changed. With a standard 0.4 mm nozzle, it handles everything from figurines to functional parts with confidence. Fine details print cleanly, bridging is respectable, and surfaces come out smoother than you might expect from a machine at this price.
In 2025, competitors have pushed speeds higher, but the Mini+ focuses more on reliability than raw pace. While it won’t out-sprint newer CoreXY models, it’s still a dependable workhorse if you value accuracy over speed.
Prusa Research continues to provide frequent software or firmware updates, extending the life of the Mini+ well into 2025. Features like mesh bed leveling, reliable filament sensors, and intuitive calibration routines keep it competitive. Fine-tuning remains simple with PrusaSlicer, which is tightly integrated with the hardware. Thanks to its popularity, you’ll always find great support, updated profiles, a blog, and more from the community, giving advice tailored to this printer.
In today’s market, the Mini+ faces stiff competition. Creality’s Ender 3 V3 KE, Bambu Lab’s P1P, and Anycubic’s Vyper 2 printers bring higher print speeds and, in some cases, larger build volumes. But the Mini+ holds its place with unmatched reliability, firmware support, and community resources.
| Specification | Prusa Mini+ | Bambu Lab P1P | Creality Ender 3 V3 KE | Anycubic Vyper 2 |
| Build Volume (mm) | 180 × 180 × 180 | 256 × 256 × 256 | 220 × 220 × 240 | 245 × 245 × 260 |
| Print Speed | ~150 mm/s practical | 500 mm/s peak | 300 mm/s peak | 300 mm/s peak |
| Leveling | Mesh Bed Leveling | Auto | Auto | Auto |
| Filament Compatibility | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU | Wide range | Wide range | Wide range |
| Price Range (USD, 2025) | $429 – $459 | $599 – $699 | $299 – $349 | $379 – $429 |
What stands out is that while rivals are leaning into speed and volume, the Mini+ is still all about consistency and reliability. If you value set-it-and-forget-it printing more than racing through prints, it still has an edge.
The Original Prusa Mini+ may not be the flashiest option in 2025, but it still delivers what matters most: reliable print quality, great community support, and long-term usability. It’s an excellent choice for newcomers who want a dependable introduction to 3D printing, as well as seasoned makers looking for a compact secondary machine. If speed or massive build volume is your top priority, there are newer options worth considering. But if what you want is steady, reliable output without constant tinkering, the Mini+ continues to be a strong contender even today.
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Sources
1. Prusa3D.com, “Prusa Research a.s.” Accessed July 26, 2022.
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