If you own a 3D printer, you’re likely familiar with firmware. Firmware is the software that controls how your 3D printer operates. The two most popular firmware options for 3D printers are Klipper and Marlin. But which one should you use?
Both Klipper and Marlin have their advantages and disadvantages. There is no definitive “best” option, as the right firmware depends on your specific needs and setup. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Klipper vs Marlin to help you decide which is better for your 3D printer.
What is Klipper?
Klipper is an open source, Linux-based firmware developed by Kevin O’Connor in 2016. It utilizes a client-server model, where most of the processing is handled by a separate computer (such as a Raspberry Pi) and the printer’s microcontroller acts as a peripheral.
Some key features of Klipper include:
- High print speeds – Klipper can achieve much faster print speeds compared to Marlin. Prints over 200mm/s are possible.
- Precise control – The client-server model allows for more precise and responsive control of printer movements. This results in better print quality, especially for high speed prints.
- Flexible configuration – Klipper uses a standard config file format that is highly customizable for different machine types. It’s easy to tweak settings.
- Lightweight – Since processing is offloaded to another device, the firmware on the printer’s microcontroller can be very lightweight. This allows it to run on less expensive and lower powered microcontrollers.
- G-code macros – Klipper supports advanced G-code macros for automating repetitive tasks and customizing prints.
- Bed mesh leveling – Klipper has excellent support for mesh bed leveling, which compensates for uneven build surfaces.
The main downsides of Klipper are that it requires an additional computing device to run on, and the setup process can be more complex compared to Marlin. It also does not have as many user interface features built-in.
What is Marlin?
Marlin is also an open source firmware, and the most popular option for consumer 3D printers. It was initially developed in 2011 by Erik van der Zalm for the RepRap community.
Some standout features of Marlin include:
- Beginner-friendly – Marlin is designed to be easy to install and use for beginners. The configuration process is straightforward.
- Pre-built UI – Marlin comes packaged with user-friendly interfaces like LCD menus and touchscreens. These allow controlling the printer without a PC.
- Wide compatibility – Marlin supports a very wide range of 3D printer electronics boards and machine types out of the box. There’s little to no tweaking needed.
- Reliability – As a mature firmware option, Marlin is very reliable and has proven itself over years of use. Bugs tend to get fixed quickly.
- Safety features – Marlin has robust safety features built-in such as thermal runaway protection and power outage recovery. This helps avoid disasters.
- Rich features – A decade of development has allowed Marlin to add many advanced features like mesh bed leveling, linear advance, and more.
The main disadvantage of Marlin is that performance is limited compared to Klipper. Print speeds max out around 150mm/s for most machines, and some features can be memory intensive.
Marlin vs Klipper: Key Differences
Now that we’ve provided an overview of each firmware option, let’s directly compare Klipper and Marlin across some key factors:
Print Speed
Klipper is the clear winner when it comes to high print speeds. By offloading processing to another device, Klipper overcomes the limits of 8-bit microcontrollers. 200mm/s or faster is achievable on well-tuned Cartesian style printers.
Marlin maxes out around 150mm/s for most printers. Delta-style bot designs may reach 180-200mm/s. But for standard printers, Klipper has a large speed advantage.
Print Quality
At low to moderate speeds, Klipper and Marlin are comparable in print quality. But Klipper pulls ahead at very high speeds thanks to its superior processing capabilities and control algorithms.
The input shaping and resonance compensation features in Klipper result in clean quality even when printing fast. Marlin prints tend to get “sloppier” at its max speeds.
Overall, Klipper has the print quality advantage for high speed 3D printing.
Features
Marlin has a more extensive feature set overall, which is expected given its decade long development history. Pretty much any feature you could want is already baked into Marlin.
Klipper is somewhat more barebones, but the plugin architecture allows advanced users to add the functionality they need. The macro system enables similar customization.
For basic use, Marlin is preferable. But advanced Klipper users can match or exceed Marlin’s features.
Hardware Support
Hands down, Marlin supports a wider range of 3D printer electronics and configurations out of the box. Virtually every common 3D printer mainboard is compatible with Marlin with little to no tweaking.
Klipper has basic compatibility for common boards like the SKR series, but often requires edits to the config file to work properly with a given machine. Support is also dependent on community contributions.
Marlin is the clear winner in terms of breadth of hardware support and compatibility.
Ease of Use
Marlin has a distinct edge in beginner-friendliness. For users who just want to quickly get their printer running with the default settings, Marlin is simpler to install and configure.
Klipper does require using terminal commands for installation. And achieving optimal print results requires deeper knowledge to tweak the config file properly. Marlin works well out of the box.
For Linux/command line savvy users, Klipper isn’t overly complex. But it does have a steeper learning curve.
Community and Support
As the older and more widely used firmware, Marlin benefits from an absolutely massive community. No matter what issue you run into, odds are someone else has experienced it and documentation exists to help.
Klipper has an active community, but it isn’t nearly as large as Marlin’s. So you may need to rely more on official documentation or the Klipper Discord server to get support. Overall, Marlin edges out Klipper when it comes to community knowledge.
Performance Requirements
Due to its lightweight architecture, Klipper has very modest hardware requirements. It can run on a basic Raspberry Pi paired with dated printer electronics. This is a major advantage for keeping costs low.
Marlin requires more up to date electronics with enough memory and processing power to run the full firmware. For example, an 8-bit board like the Mega 2560 will often run into issues with more advanced Marlin configurations.
If you have older printer hardware, Klipper is a better match to maximize performance.
Initial Setup and Configuration
For initial setup, Marlin definitely provides an easier out-of-the-box experience. Downloading a pre-built firmware and flashing it to your board takes just a few minutes.
Klipper’s installation process involves flashing a bootloader, setting up software like OctoPrint, and going through multiple configuration steps. It takes at least an hour for an experienced user.
However, Klipper’s config file can make optimization and tweaking easier down the road. So the complexity evens out in the long run.
User Interface
One clear advantage of Marlin is the built-in LCD interfaces. Marlin works seamlessly with full color touchscreens and TFT displays for controlling the printer offline.
Klipper has no native UI features. Instead, you need to use a software frontend like Fluidd or OctoPrint. This makes an attached Raspberry Pi mandatory.
For users who want LCD control and offline printing, Marlin is preferable. Klipper requires a computer connection.
Which is Better for You?
With the major differences covered, should you choose Klipper or Marlin? Here are some guidelines:
Consider Klipper if:
- You want maximum print speeds. Klipper excels at 200mm/s+.
- You don’t mind tinkering with config files. It provides finer-grained control.
- You have a Raspberry Pi or want to run OctoPrint. Klipper integrates well.
- You have an outdated printer board. Klipper adds life with better performance.
Marlin is a better choice if:
- You’re new to 3D printing and want easy setup. Marlin just works out of the box.
- You need a wide range of hardware support. Marlin supports tons of boards.
- You want offline LCD interface features. Marlin has menus and displays built-in.
- You value reliability and stability. As a mature firmware, Marlin is rock solid.
- You print fast but not extremely fast. Marlin handles 150mm/s well for most uses.
In reality, you can achieve great prints with either firmware. Pick the option that best fits your current setup, experience level, and printing needs. Both Klipper and Marlin are under active development, so the specifics continue to evolve over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Klipper vs Marlin:
Is it worth switching from Marlin to Klipper?
If you are satisfied with your print speeds and quality with Marlin, then there is no urgent need to switch. However, Klipper can provide noticeable improvements if you are looking to print faster while maintaining quality. It also gives more flexibility for upgrades and tweaking in the future.
Can I use Klipper with an 8-bit board?
Yes, Klipper is well suited for resurrecting older 8-bit boards like the Mega 2560 since it offloads processing. Limitations of these boards are mainly felt with Marlin. With Klipper, an 8-bit board can drive prints at high speeds.
How difficult is configuring Klipper?
Klipper uses a standard text-based config file. While not overly complex, it does require learning the Klipper syntax and conventions. Expect a learning curve if you have experience with Marlin configs, but it allows very fine control.
Does Marlin support multiple extruders?
Yes, Marlin has robust support for switching between multiple extruders for multi-material and multi-color printing. Independent XYZE axis control is also possible. Klipper has more limited support for this functionality currently.
Can I use LCD interfaces with Klipper?
Klipper itself does not support UIs, but you can use OctoPrint/Fluidd’s built-in display functions. Some LCDs like the MKS TFT70 can also integrate directly with Klipper using a plugin. So LCD use is possible, but not as seamless as with Marlin.
The Bottom Line
Klipper and Marlin take different approaches, but both are capable firmware options. Marlin provides better out-of-the-box usability for beginners. Klipper requires more setup but enables higher maximum speeds and tuning.
Consider your own skill level, hardware, and print speed goals when deciding between the two firmwares. Flashing and testing each option is the best way to determine if Klipper or Marlin is the right fit for your 3D printing needs.
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