The Ultimate Noise Battle: Which Filament Dryer Delivers the Quietest Performance?

Key Findings at a Glance

Sovol SH01 operates at approximately 42 dB, making it moderately noisy but with excellent budget value
Sovol SH02 produces around 47-60 dB depending on operation, offering advanced features at the cost of slightly increased noise
Creality Space Pi Plus is designed for quieter operation overall, though some users report roller noise

Noise Level Comparison Analysis

For 3D printing enthusiasts who work in quiet environments or have their setups in living spaces, the noise level of filament dryers can be a significant consideration. Let's dive into how these three popular models compare specifically in terms of noise production.

Sovol SH01 Noise Profile

The Sovol SH01 is the entry-level model in this comparison and produces a noise level of approximately 42 dB during operation. This is largely attributed to its basic fan system that's necessary for circulating heated air throughout the drying chamber. The noise is generally consistent and predictable, making it less distracting for some users despite being audible in quiet rooms.

SH01 Noise Reduction Options

Several users have found ways to modify their SH01 units to reduce noise levels:

Replacing the stock fan with a quieter aftermarket option
Adding sound-dampening materials to the interior
Placing the unit on a soft surface to reduce vibration transfer

Sovol SH02 Noise Profile

The Sovol SH02, despite being an upgraded model with more advanced features, actually produces slightly more noise than its predecessor. Measurements indicate it operates at approximately 47 dB, with some reports suggesting it can reach up to 60 dB during peak operation. The noise has been described as having a higher pitch compared to the SH01.

SH02 Noise Characteristics

The increased noise level in the SH02 can be attributed to several factors:

More powerful 150W PTC heating system that requires additional cooling
Higher temperature capability (up to 70°C vs 50°C in the SH01)
The addition of a touchscreen interface and more sophisticated electronics

Users have reported success in reducing noise by adding a resistor to decrease the fan speed, though this modification may affect the unit's cooling efficiency.

Creality Space Pi Plus Noise Profile

The Creality Space Pi Plus is marketed with quiet operation as a design consideration. While specific decibel measurements aren't widely available, user feedback suggests it produces noticeable but acceptable noise levels. The main sources of noise in this unit are:

The circulation fan, which is audible in quiet environments
Plastic rollers that can create noise during filament movement
The 80W PTC heater which requires less cooling than the SH02's 150W system

The Space Pi Plus benefits from more modern design considerations focused on noise reduction, though it still isn't completely silent.

Technical Specifications Comparison

Feature	Sovol SH01	Sovol SH02	Creality Space Pi Plus
Heating Method	PET Heating	150W 360° PTC Surround Heating	80W PTC Heater
Max Temperature	50°C	70°C	70°C
Approximate Noise Level	42 dB	47-60 dB	Not specified (Quiet with some roller noise)
Set Duration	Up to 24 Hours	Up to 98 Hours	Up to 48 Hours
Filament Compatibility	Basic (PLA, PETG, TPU, PVE, ABS)	Advanced (PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, PVA, PC, PA, PP)	Comprehensive (12 types, including PLA-CF and PA-CF)
Heating Speed	Moderate	Fast (50°C in 7 min, 70°C in 25 min)	Moderate to Fast
User Interface	Basic controls	Touchscreen	Digital screen with real-time monitoring

Understanding the Noise Sources

To better understand why these filament dryers produce noise and how it affects your experience, it's important to identify the common noise sources in these devices:

Primary Noise Contributors

Fan Systems

The circulation fans are the most significant source of noise in all three models. These fans are essential for distributing heated air throughout the chamber and ensuring even drying of filament. The SH02's more powerful heating system requires more substantial cooling, contributing to its higher noise level.

Mechanical Components

The Creality Space Pi Plus has been reported to have some noise from its plastic rollers that help rotate the filament. These mechanical movements can create a distinct sound different from the consistent hum of fans.

Electronic Components

The control systems and power supplies in these units can generate electrical noise, particularly in the more feature-rich SH02 and Space Pi Plus models.

Environmental Factors

The perceived noise level can also be affected by:

Room acoustics and ambient noise
Placement of the dryer (hard surfaces can amplify vibrations)
Proximity to your workspace or living areas

Feature Impact on Noise Levels

mindmap root["Filament Dryer Noise Factors"] Sovol SH01 Fan system Single fan design Lower power requirements Simple electronics Fewer components Basic control system Limited features Max 50°C temperature 24-hour operation limit Sovol SH02 Enhanced heating system 150W PTC elements Higher temperature capability Requires more cooling Advanced electronics Touchscreen interface Complex control circuits Extended features 70°C maximum temperature 98-hour operation capability Creality Space Pi Plus Moderate heating system 80W PTC heater Balanced performance Mechanical design Plastic roller noise Fan optimization Smart features Real-time humidity monitoring Multiple filament support

Noise-Reduction Strategies

If you're sensitive to noise or operate your 3D printing setup in a quiet environment, consider these strategies to reduce the noise impact of your filament dryer:

Placement Optimization

Where you place your filament dryer can significantly affect perceived noise:

Position the dryer on a soft surface or rubber mat to dampen vibrations
Keep it away from walls that could reflect and amplify sound
Consider placing it in a cabinet or enclosure with proper ventilation

Modification Options

For those comfortable with making modifications to their equipment:

Replace stock fans with quieter Noctua or other silent PC fans of the same size and voltage
Add a resistor to reduce fan speed (keeping in mind this may affect performance)
Apply sound-dampening materials to the interior walls of the dryer

Timing Strategies

Strategic use of your filament dryer can minimize noise disruption:

Run the dryer during times when you're not in the same space
Schedule drying sessions overnight or when you're away
Utilize the programmable timers on the SH02 and Space Pi Plus to your advantage

Visual Evidence: Filament Dryers in Action

These images provide a visual comparison of the three filament dryers being discussed, showing their design differences that may impact noise production.

Expert Video Review

This video provides an in-depth look at the Creality Space Pi filament dryer, with specific attention to the noise levels during operation. The reviewer mentions the sponge and noise considerations around the 1:25 mark.

In this test, the reviewer examines the Space Pi's ability to heat up to 70°C, which should be sufficient for drying even nylon filament. The video also addresses the noise considerations that many users are concerned about when selecting a filament dryer.