Bigtreetech Panda Pad 7 vs. Pad 7 Klipper: Which Touch Screen Reigns Supreme?

3D PrintersAccessoriesTouch Screens Chris Wyatt 28 October 2024

Choosing the right touch screen can make a big difference in your 3D printing experience. The Bigtreetech touch screens Panda Pad 7 offer unique features that cater to different needs. Whether you’re looking for convenience, flexibility, or performance, these screens have something to offer.

The Panda Pad 7, with its 7-inch screen, provides a larger interface that makes it easier to manage your 3D printing tasks. On the other hand, the Panda Touch, with its 5-inch screen, is compact and straightforward, ideal for those who prefer a smaller device. Both screens have their strengths, and understanding their differences can help you make the best choice for your setup.

Battery Life Comparison: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. BIGTREETECH Pad 7

Battery life is an important factor when choosing a touch screen for your 3D printer. The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch offers a built-in lithium battery that allows for 30 minutes of wireless control. This feature makes it convenient for users who need to move around their workspace but still want control over their printers.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 does not mention a built-in battery in its specifications. This means users will need to keep it plugged in during use, which might limit portability but ensures continuous power. If mobility is not a priority, the Pad 7 provides a stable and uninterrupted power source for extended printing sessions.

Connectivity Options for Bigtreetech Touch Screens: Panda Touch vs Pad 7

The Panda Touch screen focuses on ease of use and compatibility with multiple Bambu-Lab printers. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity, making it simple to manage up to 20 printers simultaneously. This feature is particularly useful for those who own multiple printers and need centralized control.

In contrast, the Pad 7 goes a step further by providing both Wi-Fi and the option to upgrade to Ethernet through a CM4 module, which can be installed to enable Linux OS. This allows for greater versatility, as users can control their 3D printers via Wi-Fi or a more stable Ethernet connection. Additionally, the Pad 7 supports remote control via smartphone, tablet, or computer, making it a robust option for users who require flexible connectivity choices.

Ease of Firmware Updates for Bigtreetech Touch Screens: Panda Pad 7

Updating the firmware of the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch screen is relatively easy. The process involves downloading the latest firmware version from GitHub and following clear instructions. Users have reported that the firmware update V1.0.5 significantly enhances user experience by adding features like smart power management, USB drive 3mf file thumbnail preview, and sorting print files by name. The device’s firmware compatibility with multiple Bambulab printers ensures a seamless update process.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen also offers a straightforward firmware update process. It comes pre-installed with Klipper firmware, known for its precision-oriented algorithms that improve printing speed. The Pad 7’s open-source nature allows users to take full advantage of the latest Klipper features. However, users have noted that setting up the Pad 7 can be a bit challenging for novices, especially when controlling multiple printers. This may require additional time and effort.

Build Quality Comparison: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit vs. BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit impresses with its robust construction. The materials used are durable, ensuring the screen can withstand regular use without easily showing signs of wear. The plug-and-play design is particularly well-executed, making installation straightforward even for those with limited technical experience. Additionally, the magnetic charging dock and USB cable provide versatile charging options, enhancing the overall user experience.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen boasts a solid build that feels premium and sturdy. The 7-inch IPS touch screen offers a vibrant display, and the combined functionality of the CB1 and Pi4B ensures it delivers strong performance. The ability to upgrade to CM4 for more powerful computing and the inclusion of an ADXL345 module for improved print quality are notable features. However, the setup process can be a bit daunting for beginners, which might affect its appeal.

Comparison of BIGTREETECH Touch Screens: Panda Touch vs. Pad 7

While both the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7 are designed to enhance your 3D printing experience, they differ significantly in screen size. The Panda Touch features a 5-inch touchscreen, which is compact yet sufficient for most basic operations. On the other hand, the Pad 7 offers a larger 7-inch screen, providing more real estate for controls and settings, which can be particularly useful for more detailed and complex tasks.

The larger screen size of the Pad 7 not only allows for better visibility but also enhances ease of use. With more space to interact with, users can navigate through menus and settings more smoothly, making it a preferred choice for those who require a more user-friendly interface. The Panda Touch, while smaller, is still highly functional and might be more suitable for users with limited space or those who prefer a more compact device.

Software Compatibility: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. Pad 7

Both the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7 offer different advantages when it comes to software compatibility. The Panda Touch is designed specifically for Bambulab printers, supporting firmware updates and various functions like AMS management and multi-printer control. However, it heavily relies on firmware compatibility, which can be a downside if Bambulab releases firmware that disrupts its functions.

On the other hand, the Pad 7 is a more versatile option with Klipper pre-installed. It supports a wide range of 3D printers and offers the flexibility to upgrade to CM4 for added functionalities like running Linux OS. This makes the Pad 7 a robust choice for users who need strong computing power and open-source support. It also allows for wireless printing and remote control, although it only supports 2.4G WiFi.

Customer Support Comparison for Bigtreetech Panda Pad 7 vs. Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen

Bigtreetech’s customer support for the Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit has received mixed reviews. Some users praise the ease of installation and the improvements it brings to their 3D printers. However, others mention issues with the product’s compatibility following firmware updates and express dissatisfaction with the lack of timely responses or solutions from the support team. This inconsistency in customer support can be frustrating for users who need quick and effective assistance.

On the other hand, the Bigtreetech Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen generally garners more positive feedback regarding customer support. Users appreciate the detailed setup documents available on GitHub and find the support team more responsive to inquiries. The product’s compatibility with various 3D printers and its ability to handle multiple tasks is also well-supported by the customer service team, making it a more reliable choice for those seeking dependable assistance.

Comparison of User Interfaces: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. BIGTREETECH Pad 7

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7 offer different experiences when it comes to user interfaces. The Panda Touch, with its 5-inch screen, is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it a great choice for those who prefer a straightforward setup. On the other hand, the Pad 7 boasts a larger 7-inch screen and comes pre-installed with Klipper firmware, which allows for faster and more precise 3D printing. This makes the Pad 7 more suitable for advanced users who are looking for a high-performance interface.

In terms of design, the Panda Touch is compact and portable, featuring a magnetic charging dock and a USB cable for easy charging. This design is particularly useful for users who need to move the screen around frequently. The Pad 7, however, focuses on delivering a robust computing experience with its powerful CB1 V2.2 core board and the option to upgrade to CM4 for a Linux OS. This makes the Pad 7 a better fit for users who need strong computing power and flexibility.

User-friendliness is another important aspect to consider. The Panda Touch is very user-friendly with its plug-and-play feature, making it easy to install and start using immediately. The Pad 7, while offering more advanced features, requires a bit more setup and knowledge to utilize its full potential. Therefore, the Panda Touch is ideal for beginners or those who prioritize ease of use, while the Pad 7 is tailored for users who don’t mind investing some time into the setup to gain access to more powerful features.

When it comes to compatibility, the Panda Touch supports a wide range of Bambulab printers and offers multi-printer control, which is great for users managing multiple devices. The Pad 7, being Klipper-supported, is compatible with most 3D FDM printers on the market and allows for wireless printing, providing more flexibility in terms of printer management. This makes the Pad 7 a more versatile option for those with diverse printing needs.

In conclusion, both the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7 have their strengths. The Panda Touch excels in simplicity, portability, and ease of use, making it perfect for beginners. The Pad 7, with its larger screen, powerful computing capabilities, and advanced features, is better suited for experienced users who need a high-performance interface. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Weight Comparison of Bigtreetech Touch Screens: Panda Pad 7 vs. Pad 7 Klipper

The weight of a touch screen can influence its portability and ease of installation. The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch, designed for Bambu Lab 3D printers, weighs approximately 400 grams. This makes it light enough to handle easily during installation and use, yet sturdy enough to ensure durability.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen is slightly heavier at around 450 grams. While this difference might seem minor, it can affect the overall balance when mounted on certain 3D printers, especially smaller models. However, this extra weight also contributes to a more robust build, which can be beneficial for long-term use.

Environmental Impact of BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit is designed to be energy-efficient with its smart power management system. This includes group control of up to 10 Panda PWR units and power consumption tracking for each print. However, concerns about compatibility with future firmware updates could lead to potential electronic waste if the device becomes unusable.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen also emphasizes energy efficiency, with its pre-installed Klipper firmware that boosts printing speed by 2-5 times while maintaining quality. This efficiency can translate to lower energy consumption over time. Additionally, the Pad 7’s open-source nature allows for upgrades, which could extend its lifespan and reduce electronic waste.

Comparing Screen Resolution of Bigtreetech Touch Screens: Panda Touch vs. Pad 7

The screen resolution is a critical factor in choosing a touch screen for your 3D printer. Let’s compare the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 to see which offers a clearer and sharper display.

The Panda Touch features a 5-inch screen. While it provides a reasonably good display for its size, it may fall short when it comes to intricate details due to its relatively smaller screen real estate.

On the other hand, the Pad 7 boasts a 7-inch IPS touch screen, ensuring vibrant colors and crisp details. The larger screen size and higher resolution make it easier to navigate and view detailed print previews, enhancing the overall user experience.

Given the higher resolution and larger screen size, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 clearly surpasses the Panda Touch in terms of screen quality. This makes it a better choice for users who prioritize a superior visual experience.

Processor Speed Comparison: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. Pad 7

The processor speed of a device significantly influences its performance and responsiveness. The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch features a firmware that supports smart power management and multi-printer control, optimizing its overall performance. However, its processing capabilities are not explicitly detailed, making it tough to gauge its raw speed.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 boasts a 64-bit 1.5GHz ARM Cortex-A53 processor, which is part of the CB1 V2.2 core board. This high-speed processor ensures smooth and efficient operation, especially when running Klipper firmware, which can enhance printing speeds by 2-5 times. The Pad 7’s processor speed gives it a clear edge in terms of computing power and overall performance.

Comparing Input/Output Ports in BIGTREETECH Touch Screens

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit offers a variety of ports for ease of use. It features a USB drive port, TF Card slot, and U-disk reading capabilities. These ports ensure that users can easily upload their print files without any hassle. Additionally, the Panda Touch includes a magnetic charging dock and USB cable for charging, making it convenient to power up the device.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen provides strong computing power with a pre-installed CB1 board. It includes a USB port and supports wireless printing via Wi-Fi. Additionally, the Pad 7 offers the flexibility to upgrade to CM4 for enhanced functionality. Users can also control their 3D printers remotely through their smartphone, tablet, or computer, adding a layer of convenience.

Multi-Printer Control Comparison: BIGTREETECH Panda Touch vs. BIGTREETECH Pad 7

The ability to manage multiple printers at once is a game-changer for anyone running a 3D printing operation. The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch excels in this area, supporting the control of up to 20 Bambulab printers. This feature allows users to group printers, set one as a master, and others as followers, or even manage each printer independently. This flexibility offers a high level of control and efficiency, making it an excellent choice for those with several Bambulab machines.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen also offers multi-printer control but on a smaller scale. It can manage up to 3 printers simultaneously. While this may be sufficient for smaller operations, it falls short compared to the Panda Touch’s capabilities. However, the Pad 7 does excel in other areas, such as its pre-installed Klipper firmware, which significantly boosts printing speed and quality.

Wireless Printing Capabilities

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit offers a variety of wireless printing options. It supports WiFi connectivity, allowing you to control your Bambulab printers remotely. This feature is particularly useful for managing multiple printers simultaneously, providing a seamless and efficient printing experience. Additionally, the Panda Touch enables you to preview 3D models on your screen via a USB drive, making it easy to manage print jobs from anywhere in your house or print farm.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen also excels in wireless printing capabilities. It includes a pre-installed Klipper firmware that allows you to control your 3D printers through WiFi using your smartphone, tablet, or computer. This feature ensures you can manage your printing tasks remotely, offering convenience and flexibility. The Pad 7 can control up to three printers simultaneously, making it a versatile choice for those with multiple 3D printers.

Touchscreen Responsiveness of Bigtreetech Panda Pad 7 vs. Pad 7 Klipper

Evaluating touchscreen responsiveness is essential for ensuring a smooth and pleasant user experience. The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch is designed for easy installation and offers intuitive control options for multiple Bambulab printers. Users have noted that the screen is highly responsive and user-friendly, making it a valuable upgrade for their 3D printing setup.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen, pre-installed with Klipper firmware, enhances the printing process by improving speed and precision. The Pad 7 features a 7-inch IPS touch screen that is responsive and easy to navigate, even for those new to 3D printing. However, some users have mentioned that the initial setup can be a bit complicated, which might affect the overall user experience.

Compatibility with Additional Modules

First, let’s consider the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit. This kit is primarily designed for Bambulab printers and supports a wide range of models. It is compatible with the latest firmware versions of these printers. The Panda Touch allows for extensive multi-printer control, managing up to 20 printers simultaneously. However, it does not explicitly mention support for additional modules like the CM4 for Linux, which limits its expansion capabilities.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen shines in terms of compatibility with additional modules. It comes pre-installed with Klipper firmware, which significantly boosts printing speed and quality. Moreover, it features a board-to-board socket that allows easy installation of the CM4 module, enabling users to run Linux OS. This feature provides a lot of flexibility, turning the Pad 7 into a mini-computer capable of various tasks beyond 3D printing.

Comparison of Open-Source Support for Bigtreetech Touch Screens

The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit offers broad open-source support, making it customizable for various Bambu 3D printers. Users can update the firmware from GitHub to unlock new features and improve performance. This level of flexibility is beneficial for enthusiasts looking to tailor their 3D printing experience.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen is pre-installed with Klipper firmware, a popular open-source firmware known for boosting printing speeds and maintaining quality. The Pad 7 also supports Linux OS when upgraded with CM4, allowing users to explore even more customization options and functionalities.

Power Consumption Comparison: Bigtreetech Touch Screens Panda Pad 7

Comparing the power consumption of the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen is essential for understanding their impact on energy costs and the environment. The Panda Touch, designed for Bambulab printers, features smart power management options that allow users to save energy by controlling up to 10 printers simultaneously. This feature can help reduce overall power usage, making it a more eco-friendly option.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen, though packed with high-performance features, does not emphasize energy-saving capabilities as much as the Panda Touch. Its focus is on enhancing printing speed and quality, which may lead to higher power consumption. However, it does offer the convenience of wireless printing, which can slightly offset its energy usage by reducing the need for additional hardware.

Ease of Installation Comparison for BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7

Setting up the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch Touch Screen Upgrade Kit is quite straightforward. This 5-inch plug-and-play touchscreen requires only two main steps for installation: docking and wiring. Users have praised the simplicity of the process, highlighting that clear instructions are provided, making it easy even for those who are not tech-savvy. Additionally, the kit includes everything needed for installation, which further simplifies the setup.

On the other hand, the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 Klipper Touch Screen offers a more involved installation process. While it comes pre-installed with Klipper firmware, which improves printing speed and quality, setting up the Pad 7 requires some technical knowledge. Users report that the setup involves more steps and may need additional resources like YouTube tutorials for guidance. However, once installed, the Pad 7 provides robust features and controls, making the initial effort worthwhile.

Final Conclusion on Choosing Between BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and Pad 7

In this conclusion, we summarize the key points of the comparison and declare the BIGTREETECH Pad 7 as the preferred choice based on the following reasons: the Pad 7 offers a larger screen with better resolution, more versatile connectivity options including Ethernet, and a stronger processor for enhanced performance. Additionally, it supports open-source Klipper firmware, allowing for greater flexibility and customization. This decision aligns with the thematic concept of efficiency and performance, emphasizing the need for a robust and adaptable touch screen solution for 3D printing.

Questions & Answers:

Question: Which touch screen is better for battery life, the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch or the Pad 7?

Answer: The BIGTREETECH Panda Touch offers a built-in lithium battery that allows for 30 minutes of wireless control, making it more convenient for users who need to move around. The Pad 7, however, needs to be plugged in during use, which ensures continuous power but limits portability.

Question: What are the connectivity options for the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the Pad 7?

Answer: The Panda Touch offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing control of up to 20 printers simultaneously. The Pad 7 provides both Wi-Fi and the option to upgrade to Ethernet via a CM4 module, offering greater versatility and more stable connections.

Question: How easy is it to update the firmware on the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch compared to the Pad 7?

Answer: Updating the firmware on the Panda Touch is straightforward, involving downloading the latest version from GitHub and following clear instructions. The Pad 7 also offers a simple update process with its pre-installed Klipper firmware, though it may require more setup time for those new to it.

Question: Which touch screen has better build quality, the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch or the Pad 7?

Answer: The Panda Touch features robust construction with durable materials and a plug-and-play design. The Pad 7 also boasts a solid build with a 7-inch IPS touch screen and the ability to upgrade to CM4, though its setup can be more challenging for beginners.

Question: Which touch screen is more user-friendly, the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch or the Pad 7?

Answer: The Panda Touch is very user-friendly with its simple plug-and-play feature, making it ideal for beginners. The Pad 7, while offering more advanced features, requires more setup and technical knowledge, making it better suited for experienced users.

Question: What are the main differences in screen size and resolution between the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the Pad 7?

Answer: The Panda Touch has a 5-inch screen, which is compact yet functional for basic operations. The Pad 7 offers a larger 7-inch IPS touch screen with higher resolution, providing better visibility and ease of use for more detailed tasks.

Question: How do the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the Pad 7 compare in terms of software compatibility?

Answer: The Panda Touch is designed specifically for Bambulab printers and relies heavily on firmware compatibility. The Pad 7, with its pre-installed Klipper firmware, supports a wider range of 3D printers and offers the flexibility to upgrade to CM4 for added functionalities.

Question: What are the differences in customer support for the BIGTREETECH Panda Touch and the Pad 7?

Answer: Customer support for the Panda Touch has mixed reviews, with some users praising it and others noting issues with compatibility and response times. The Pad 7 generally receives more positive feedback for its detailed setup documents and responsive support team.