# Setting Up Your Prusa XL

Great news! Your **Prusa XL** can be set up with SimplyPrint in two ways.

## Choose Your Setup Method

| Method | Best For | Requires |
|--------|----------|----------|
| **[Classic Setup (OctoPrint)](/setup-guide/methods/octoprint-powered.md)** | Most stable, more features | Raspberry Pi |
| **[Direct Integration (Custom Firmware)](/setup-guide/methods/prusa-direct.md)** | No extra hardware | Flashing custom firmware |

> ### Why we recommend the Classic setup
> 
> For most users, the **Classic setup via OctoPrint** with a **Raspberry Pi** offers the most stable experience, faster connections/downloads, and more available data.
> 
> The SimplyPrint custom firmware is currently in **beta** with limited support. The Direct Integration method also requires you to flash custom firmware onto your printer, which involves opening up the electronics box and breaking a physical "appendix" on the mainboard.
> 
> 📖 [Learn more about the custom Prusa firmware and the pros/cons](https://help.simplyprint.io/en/article/direct-prusa-integration-custom-simplyprint-prusa-firmware-setup-6bysim/)

---

### Classic Setup (OctoPrint)

The tried-and-true method that works with all Prusa printers.

**Pros:**
- ✅ Most stable and mature setup
- ✅ Faster connections and downloads
- ✅ Webcam support
- ✅ More data available (temps, progress, etc.)

**Cons:**
- ❌ Requires a Raspberry Pi (one per printer)
- ❌ Slightly more involved setup

**→ [Follow the OctoPrint Setup Guide](/setup-guide/methods/octoprint-powered.md)**

---

### Direct Integration (Custom Firmware)

Connect directly to SimplyPrint — no extra hardware needed!

> ⚠️ **Beta:** This integration is currently in beta with limited support.

**Pros:**
- ✅ No additional hardware required
- ✅ Quick, direct setup

**Cons:**
- ❌ Requires flashing custom firmware (opening electronics box, breaking appendix seal)
- ❌ No webcam support
- ❌ Slower downloads
- ❌ Potential bugs (beta)

**→ [Follow the Direct Integration Guide](/setup-guide/methods/prusa-direct.md)**