Bambu Lab makes two versions of its multi-color filament system: the AMS (Automatic Material System) and the AMS Lite. Both let you print with up to 4 colors automatically. The differences between them are specific and matter for different use cases. Here’s the honest breakdown so you know exactly what you’re getting with each.
What They Have in Common
Both hold 4 spools and swap between them automatically during printing. Both connect to Bambu Studio for color assignment. Both produce multi-color prints with the same purge tower mechanism. For the actual output quality of a two or three color deck box or prop, they produce identical results.
Key Differences
The full AMS is an enclosed unit that sits beside the printer on compatible models (X1C, P1S, P1P). It has active humidity control with a built-in desiccant system, a buffer that allows faster filament swaps, and supports up to 4 AMS units on one printer (16 colors total). It works with the full range of materials including PETG, ABS, and engineering filaments.
The AMS Lite ships with the A1 and A1 Mini. It’s lighter, open-top design, and doesn’t have active humidity control. It supports most PLA types and PETG reliably but is less suited for moisture-sensitive materials like Nylon that need continuous dry conditions. It works with up to 2 AMS Lite units (8 colors on the A1).
For hobby printing in PLA and most matte PLA variants, the AMS Lite is entirely sufficient. The filament storage concern for PLA in South Florida’s humidity is manageable with a desiccant in the AMS Lite’s spool holders. See the filament storage guide for Florida-specific humidity tips.
Frequently Asked Questions: AMS vs AMS Lite
What is the difference between AMS and AMS Lite?
AMS: enclosed, active humidity control, faster swaps, supports more materials, expandable to 16 colors. AMS Lite: open-top, no humidity control, supports PLA and PETG well, ships with A1 and A1 Mini. Both print 4-color jobs equally well with standard materials.
Is AMS Lite good enough for hobby printing?
Yes. For deck boxes, cosplay props, dollhouse parts, and other PLA/matte PLA hobby projects, the AMS Lite produces identical multi-color output to the full AMS. The humidity concern matters more for professional or engineering material use than for typical hobby printing.
Can I upgrade from AMS Lite to full AMS?
The full AMS is compatible with the X1C and P1 series printers, not the A1 series. If you want the full AMS system, you’d need a compatible printer (P1S, P1P, or X1C). The A1 and A1 Mini use AMS Lite exclusively.
