The FilaPartner E1 from Chitu Systems is a modular and compact 3D filament dryer capable of handling up to 4 spools via 2 independent chambers. Efficient, quick to heat, and well-designed for storage, it just lacks a more responsive touchscreen and better user ergonomics. A very good features-to-price ratio for 2025.
⚙️ Quick Specs
- Model: Chitu Systems FilaPartner E1
- Type: Modular filament dryer — 4 spools (2 chambers)
- Chambers: 2 independent, removable, and stackable modules
- Power: 2 × 120W PTC
- Temperature: 45–70°C (adjustable)
- Humidity Sensor: integrated (auto-start)
- Screen: 3.5″ touchscreen (resistive)
- Dimensions: approx. 38 × 26 × 23 cm
- Weight: approx. 3.5 kg
- Compatibility: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, PA-CF, PC, etc.
- Observed Price: ~€139.99 (Amazon / ChituSystems.com / AliExpress )
- Firmware Tested: v1.1.8
🔧 Introduction: When Drying Gets Smart
Filament drying is no longer an option for many 3D printing users: between ambient humidity and hygroscopic filaments, humidity control has become crucial for achieving consistent and clean prints. The FilaPartner E1 offers a modular and pragmatic approach: two separate chambers, each capable of holding two spools, dedicated PTC heating, and automatic humidity-based control.
🏭 Who is Chitu Systems?
Chitu Systems is well-known for ChituBox, its resin slicing software, and is part of the CBD (Creatives, Builds & Design) group. The Chitu Systems branch focuses on peripherals and consumables for makers and small workshops—the FilaPartner E1 shows the brand’s desire to make a strong entry into the FDM ecosystem as well.
🧩 Design and Conception: Compact, Modular, and Smart
Upon opening, the unit is surprisingly compact: it holds 4 spools while remaining space-efficient. Each module (chamber) is:
- removable and reversible 180° (right/left outputs),
- equipped with 4 filament outlets (2 on each side),
- fitted with magnetic plates that partially block the vents for storage mode.
🔬 Features and Functionality
The FilaPartner E1 uses two 120W PTC heaters with dedicated fans, which creates circular airflow around the spools. The device includes a humidity sensor that automatically triggers drying if the level rises.
Each chamber is supplied with a passive humidity indicator (colored strip). Useful for a quick check, but less precise than an integrated digital sensor.
⚙️ Setup and First Use
Setup is simple: place the base, snap on the chambers, and configure the language. A small ergonomic point: the rear-placed power button is inconvenient. The 3.5″ screen is a resistive touchscreen—it works, but it requires firm presses to be responsive.
The default menu is in Chinese; allow 30 seconds to switch to English (no other language).
Interface and Settings
The FilaPartner offers:
- 4 customizable presets (temperature + duration),
- 3 pre-set recommendations based on filament type,
- an “Intelligent Control” mode (automatic drying based on humidity level),
- a “silent” mode that reduces fan speed.
🔥 Usage and Performance
Functionally, the numbers speak for themselves: goes from 25 → 55°C in under 10 minutes (test: ~9 min 30s), and an approximate 30% reduction in relative humidity in 2 hours, according to manufacturer-provided tests and verified under user conditions.
In practice, each chamber can be set separately—ideal for a multi-material workshop: you can put PLA in one chamber (45–50°C) and PETG or TPU in the other (50–55°C).
Noise level: around 54 dB in normal mode at 1m, and 48 dB in silent mode. This is more than a library, but acceptable for a home workshop.
🔄 Quick Comparison (Sunlu S4, Creality SpacePi X4, AMS Heater)
vs. the Sunlu S4: The FilaPartner E1 is often more compact and more modular.
vs. the Creality SpacePi X4: The SpacePi goes up to 85°C (an advantage for engineering-grade nylons), but it is bulkier.
vs. the AMS Heater / Bambu ecosystem: The AMS is more integrated but less versatile outside its ecosystem.
Comparison Verdict: For those looking for modularity and versatility (and who don’t need heating >70°C), the FilaPartner E1 offers an excellent compromise.
✅ Pros & Cons
Pros
- Modular and compact design
- Two independent chambers
- Fast and even heating (PTC + ventilation)
- Storage mode and magnetic plates
- Reusable desiccant
- AMS Lite compatibility—handy for multi-printer setups
Cons
- Unresponsive resistive touchscreen
- Power switch located on the back
- Passive humidity indicator (a digital sensor would be better)
- Max temperature limited to 70°C (for some nylons, 85°C is preferred)
🧭 Our Verdict / AzurMedia.fr Conclusion
The FilaPartner E1 from Chitu Systems is a strong entry into the modular dryer category. Its strength: a pragmatic modular design that facilitates both drying and storage, coupled with efficient heating capable of meeting most common FDM needs.
The minor flaws (touchscreen, ergonomics) are annoying, but not deal-breakers, and the promise of improvements via firmware or a future V2 is credible. For a price around €139.99, it’s an excellent choice for a maker who wants reliability, compactness, and flexibility without breaking the bank.
Available on Amazon / ChituSystems.com / AliExpress
Resources & Notes
Firmware Tested: v1.1.8 — price and availability at time of review: Amazon.com / ChituSystems.com (to be verified at time of publication).
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