In the rapidly advancing world of 3D printing, bed levelling technology has undergone a remarkable transformation. Gone are the days of imprecise and slow mechanical probes and time-consuming manual calibration. The emergence of eddy current probing systems like the Cartographer V4 AIO Standard and Beacon H represents a quantum leap in precision, speed, and reliability for 3D printing enthusiasts and professionals alike.
| Feature | Cartographer V4 | Beacon H |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~AUD $74.45 | ~AUD $159 |
| Connectivity | USB / CAN Bus | USB Only |
| Probing Technology | Eddy Current Probe | Eddy Current Probe |
| Accuracy | Approximately 0.0005mm | Approximately 0.0005mm |
| Scanning Speed | Up to 22,000 points in 20 seconds | High-speed scanning capabilities up to 500mm/s |
| Additional Features | ADXL Integrated, Touch Probing | Custom Input Shaper/Accelerometer, Touch Probing |
Price as 24th January 2026.
Performance and Reliability
Community feedback from early 2026 suggests both the Cartographer V4 and Beacon H are significant improvements over traditional probing methods like TAP, inductive probes, bl touch probes. Both are rated for warm chambers or in general improve longevity using higher rated temperature components compare to existing option such as inductive probe, bl touch which tend to drift in accuracy at higher chamber temperatures.
Key advantages include:
- Extremely fast bed mesh scanning (up to 22,000 points in just 20 seconds)
- Highly accurate z-height measurement (around 0.0005mm precision)
- Minimal wear on build surfaces compared to mechanical probes, touch probe
- Integrated ADXL capabilities for advanced printer diagnostics
Installation and Compatibility
The probes differ slightly in their installation approach:
-
Cartographer V4:
- CAN Bus integration or USB available.
- Lower cost option, made in China (design in UK)
- Slightly newer to the market (as of early 2026)
- ADXL is not as high temperature rated compare to Beacon
-
Beacon H:
- More established product (first to market with high temperature solution with fast probing)
- USB connectivity only
- More expensive, made in the US (design in US)
- Custom ADXL which is high temperature rated (better Input Shaper at warm chamber)
Potential Limitations
- Neither probe is compatible with printers having integrated magnetic beds
- Requires compatible firmware(Mainline Klipper, Kalico, which can rule out most off shelf printers from OEMs which tend to lock down klipper or make modification) and calibration and some software knowledge for initial setup
- Performance can vary based on specific printer configuration and operators install/set-up
Community Perspectives
Experienced users highlight that these eddy current probes represent a significant leap in 3D printing technology. The key takeaway is that both probes are dramatically superior to traditional probing methods, offering:
- Faster bed mesh generation
- More precise measurements
The choice between Cartographer V4 and Beacon H often comes down to:
- Budget constraints
- Specific printer compatibility
- Personal preference for connectivity options
We won't delve into the drama surrounding the "copying" of original source code or design from Beacon. If you wish to explore that topic, feel free to watch the interview that discusses the Cartographer perspective, or for the other side, feel free to join the Annex or Arm Chair Discord.
Recommendation
For most users, the Cartographer V4 represents an excellent value proposition. Its lower price point, or require CAN Bus compatibility, and robust feature set make it an attractive option for both hobbyists and more serious 3D printing enthusiasts. At this stage, its has some new features likes skew twist adjust which is not offer on Beacon at this stage (24th January 2026). If you on a budget or open frame printer a Cartographer V3 may be better value.
However, users with specific requirements or those seeking a more established product might prefer the Beacon H, where they looking for US made products. As Probe are pre-calibrated at the factory, such as temperature/touch compensation. Where as Cartographer at this stage may require user to fine tune those themselves.