Bambu printers prompt you to update over the cloud. Accepting is usually fine, but a few minutes of prep avoids the common failures.
1. Read the release history for your model
Bambu publishes per-model release notes, including “Things to know before updating” and “Known Issues” sections. For example:
Some releases need minimum versions of Bambu Studio and Bambu Handy. Update those first, or your slicer and app may stop talking to the printer. Known issues can also be specific to the update path. The A1 notes warn about garbled text when jumping from 01.04.00.00 or earlier to 01.08.01.00 offline.
2. If you use third-party integrations, check them first
If you run Home Assistant integrations, OrcaSlicer, or LAN-mode workflows, check the notes and Bambu’s third-party integration guidance before updating. Firmware changes have affected how external tools connect.
3. Make the update itself boring
From Bambu’s P1 update guide:
- Make sure the printer is idle and has a good Wi-Fi signal. Failures before 50% are usually network-related.
- The update can take 5–15 minutes. Don’t power off or unplug during it.
- A corrupted or failing microSD card can cause update failures on P1-series printers. Replace it if updates keep failing.
4. Offline option: microSD
Printers kept off the internet can be updated from a microSD card with the official package (offline firmware update). Follow the model-specific guide and don’t cut power during the 10–20 minute update.
5. After the update
Bambu recommends power-cycling (off, wait 5 seconds, on) and running a full calibration from the printer or Bambu Studio. Do it before your next long print.
Checklist
- Release notes and known issues read for your model
- Studio / Handy updated to required versions
- Third-party integrations checked
- Printer idle, strong Wi-Fi (or offline SD package ready)
- No power interruption during the update
- Power-cycle + full calibration afterwards