LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed Detailed Review: A Sturdy Choice for Professional 3D Printing

The LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed is a notable entrant in the realm of professional 3D printers, designed to address the needs of intermediate to advanced users across industrial, educational, and professional sectors. What makes this printer significant is its commitment to precision and reliability, built for extensive prototyping and engineering applications. Based on its robust intended use and measurable specifications, it promises a balanced mix of performance and expandability, especially for those seeking an FDM/FFF printer with a notably large build platform.

Detailed Specs & Features of the LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed

On paper, this 3D printer presents a compelling suite of features. The build volume stands out with dimensions of 11.5 by 22.9 by 11.2 inches, culminating in 2392 cubic inches, allowing for the printing of larger parts or multiple smaller models simultaneously. Its extruder system employs a direct drive mechanism with a replaceable hotend that can reach up to 554°F, supporting a broad range of filaments from PLA to carbon fiber composites.

The nozzle diameter defaults to a sturdier 1.2mm but can be swapped out for several sizes down to 0.25mm, providing excellent control over detail versus speed. The high-temperature capability allows printing of advanced materials like PC and Nylon with ease. From a technical environment and power perspective, the LulzBot operates between 41°F and 113°F, broadening usability even in less climate-controlled settings, with an internal power supply that supports a wide voltage range (100-240 Volt). Despite consuming 600W during operation, it lacks an energy-saving mode, meaning power efficiency could be improved. The printer's frame is open and based on a Cartesian design, measuring roughly 24.8 inches per side and weighing 48 pounds.

Yet, it maintains a manageable footprint relative to its large bed size. Its software compatibility is another plus, supporting major slicers like Cura and Simplify3D, and a straightforward USB or SD card file transfer method. The printer incorporates essential hardware features such as auto bed leveling and filament runout detection, increasing print reliability. These are backed up by a one-year warranty and FCC safety certification, offering reassurance in durability and safety compliance.

User Experience & Performance (Based on Specs)

Design & Build

In daily use, the open enclosure and Cartesian frame create a stable, though somewhat exposed, build environment. While this eases access and maintenance, the absence of a heated chamber and enclosure lock may affect printing with highly temperature-sensitive materials or safety in busy industrial spaces. The printer's sizeable dimensions and weight are balanced by its build-to-printer size ratio of 11.4, which is respectable for a model supporting large-format prints. The removable magnetic build plate with a smooth surface simplifies print removal and cleaning, enhancing user convenience.

Performance

What makes this machine notable is its strong emphasis on quality and reliability. The official max print speed of 150mm/s is optimistic, but the measured effective print speed is a more realistic 60mm/s, ensuring precision without sacrificing quality. The 95% print success rate and print recovery feature stand out as a reassurance for long print jobs, which can last up to 100 continuous hours. The PEI print adhesion type is a trusted choice for versatile filament grip without excessive wear on the build surface. With a standard layer resolution minimum of 50 microns and a maximum of 900 microns, users can finely tune their prints between exceptional detail and faster draft printing. The printer scores well on bridging and overhang performance, rated respectively at 15° and 45°, allowing complex geometries to come out well without extensive support structures.

Camera / Display / Audio Quality

On the flip side, there is no built-in camera or touchscreen display; instead, the machine uses a modest 3-inch screen with a 128x64p resolution. This implies reliance on external computers for real-time monitoring and control, potentially slowing down onsite adjustments. At 55dB during printing, the noise level is moderate, allowing it to fit into shared workspaces without causing excessive disruption.

Extra Features

Extra thoughtful touches include several safety measures, such as overheat protection and auto shutdown on error, despite lacking features like an emergency stop button or enclosure lock. The presence of sensors like filament runout detection and print recovery lends itself to a continuous workflow with minimal downtime. Additionally, upgrade paths include options for lasers, CNC tools, and enclosures, offering future-proofing for evolving production needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large Build Volume Supporting Professional Applications
• Broad Material Compatibility Including High-Temp and Composite Filaments
• Reliable Features like Auto Bed Leveling and Filament Runout Sensor Improve Usability
• Support for Multiple Nozzle Sizes Allows Precision and Versatility

Cons

• No Enclosure or Chamber Heating Limits Performance on Advanced Materials
• Lacks Touchscreen Control and Built-in Camera for Remote Monitoring
• No Energy-Saving Mode Despite Relatively High Power Consumption

Price & Value for Money

Priced at $7995 at B&H Photo Video, this 3D printer fits into the premium segment. Given its one-year warranty period and robust power and temperature specifications, the pricing feels justified, especially for users needing reliability and extensive material capability. However, those who need enclosed build environments or advanced monitoring tools might find the value proposition less attractive. Ultimately, it suits users who prioritize large-format printing and material versatility over integrated smart features.

Quick Take

In short, the LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed brings solid industrial-grade 3D printing with a focus on reliability and material flexibility. If we look at the numbers alone, its large build volume, direct drive extruder, and multi-nozzle support stand out as core strengths. It's best positioned for professionals who demand precision and open architecture rather than ease of use in smart environments.

Closing Recommendation

The LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed may be ideal for industrial designers, engineers, and educators who require a wide range of materials and a sizable print bed combined with dependable print recovery and leveling. While it may not deliver on high-tech convenience features like remote monitoring or enclosure heating, it helps users achieve strong print results across demanding materials in a manageable footprint. It's a compelling choice grounded in measurable manufacturing metrics and robust build capability.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe LulzBot TAZ 8 Long Bed deserves 4.3 out of 5.

• Winner Feature => expansive build volume and broad filament compatibility boost versatility.
• Needs Improvement => absence of enclosure and smart interface options limits usability for some advanced use cases.