Bambu Lab Integration: LAN-Only vs. Bambu Cloud

Your Bambu Lab printer can run in Cloud mode or LAN mode. SimplyPrint supports both, but each mode has its own benefits and drawbacks. Below is a comparison to help you decide which mode best suits your needs.

Cloud Mode

In Cloud mode, your printer is connected to the internet and the official Bambu Lab Cloud. This allows you to access your printer remotely, including through the Bambu Handy app.

Benefits of Cloud Mode

Faster downloads: The printer downloads print files directly via the internet, making it significantly faster than LAN mode.
Bambu Handy app access: You can continue using the Bambu Handy app to control your printer remotely. However, most users find they no longer need the app once using SimplyPrint.

Drawbacks of Cloud Mode

No webcam stream in SimplyPrint: SimplyPrint cannot access the webcam feed when the printer is in Cloud mode (we are working on a solution for this).
Connected to Bambu Lab servers: The printer communicates with Bambu Lab’s cloud servers, which are often located in China. While this may not be an issue for most users, some prefer to keep their data within the EU.
No support for raw .gcode files: Bambu Lab printers in Cloud mode can only receive .3mf files, not raw .gcode files.

LAN Mode

In LAN mode, the printer is disconnected from Bambu Lab’s cloud and only accessible within your local network.

Benefits of LAN Mode

Webcam stream in SimplyPrint: Unlike Cloud mode, SimplyPrint can access and display the printer's webcam feed.
Supports raw .gcode files: Unlike Cloud mode, LAN mode allows you to send raw .gcode files directly to the printer.
No third-party cloud connection: Your printer only connects to SimplyPrint’s servers (located in the EU) and does not communicate with Bambu Lab’s cloud. This can be important for organizations with strict data policies.

Drawbacks of LAN Mode

Slower file transfers: Print files must first be downloaded to your host device (e.g., Raspberry Pi or PC running the SimplyPrint Client) and then sent to the printer using FTP, which is significantly slower than Cloud mode.
No Bambu Handy app access: You will not be able to access your printer through the Bambu Handy app while in LAN mode.

Which Mode Should You Use?

It depends on your priorities:

If speed and remote access are your top priorities, Cloud mode is best.
If local control, webcam streaming, and privacy are important, LAN mode is better.

No matter which mode you choose, SimplyPrint works with both!

Updated on: 30/01/2025