RollPros Blackbird vs. PreRoll-Er 200: Is Either Machine Better than the Hefestus AuraX?

Exploring automation for pre-roll manufacturing is inevitable if you want to scale your operations.

Automating workflows for filling, folding, and even packaging pre-rolls is how you reduce labor costs, improve consistency and quality, and increase your overall profit margins. 

Two of the machines leading the way in pre-roll automation are the RollPros Blackbird and PreRoll-Er 200. While each piece of equipment shares features that support scaling, their differences ultimately determine the final decision for most operators. 

Whether you’re in the early exploration stage or ready to make a purchase, comparing these machines on their production volumes, capabilities, training and support, and pricing and financing is crucial to making a decision. 

That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to help. Keep reading to learn more about the Blackbird and PreRoll-Er 200 stack up, and why the AuraX might be a better option than either machine when it comes to supporting your operation’s ability to scale.

RollPros Blackbird vs. PreRoll-Er 200 vs. Hefestus AuraX: Quick Comparison

Machine	Estimated Production Volume	Production Capabilities	Training & Support	Estimated Price	Notable Customers
RollPros Blackbird	900/hr	Straight rolls only; some types of infused pre-rolls	Standard training, onboarding, and remote support	$225k	Mello, Rebel Spirit, Green Thumb Industries
PreRoll-Er 200	1,300/hr	Cones and straight rolls; some types of infused pre-rolls	Standard training, onboarding, and remote support	$275	Garden Remedies
Hefestus AuraX	2,000+/hr	Cones, straight rolls, and every other pre-roll shape and size; every kind of infused pre-roll	Full week of on-site training and SOP development; 24/7 support from technicians in US and abroad	$230k	AWH, Verano, Lowell Herb Co, STIIZY, MUNCHIES!, Juicy Joints, Jetleaf, High Grade

RollPros Blackbird Overview

The RollPros Blackbird is a pre-roll filling machine that fully automates the workflow for filling cigarette-style straight rolls exclusively. The machine comes equipped with its proprietary TruRoll™ technology that emulates a traditional hand-rolling motion. 

This design is meant to produce tightly packed, consistent joints that burn evenly, in contrast to filling pre-roll manufactured cones like the PreRoll-Er 200 and AuraX. Instead, it rolls joints using paper bobbins, mimicking an actual hand-rolled finished product. 

The machine’s straight-roll capabilities set it apart but also hold it back compared to systems like the AuraX, which can handle a variety of paper and product styles. Regardless, it produces around 900 joints per hour, or up to 5,000 per shift, depending on the workflow and operator. 

This volume puts it behind both the PreRoll-Er 200, which produces up to 1,300 joints per hour, and the AuraX, which produces up to 2,000 per hour. So, while it works for mid-sized operations producing exclusively straight-roll SKUs, the RollPros Blackbird limits your output and ability to expand.

Both the PreRoll-Er 200 and the AuraX can handle straight roll joints, like the Blackbird, in addition to cones and other product types, allowing you the flexibility that’s necessary to keep up with market shifts as consumer preferences evolve. 

Another crucial area for maintaining uptime and output is the training and support provided to new operators. The Blackbird comes with an intuitive interface and straightforward maintenance, which only requires regular cleaning and calibration. 

This makes it easier to learn from the start than more advanced machines like the PreRoll-Er 200 or AuraX; however, it lacks the additional training and support that can help boost operational efficiency. 

For instance, Hefestus provides 5 days of on-site training, including hands-on, customized SOP development, to tailor its equipment to operators’ specific SKUs. But if you value simplicity in SKUs and minimal onboarding, then the Blackbird can be appealing. 

Finally, on to price. The Blackbird costs around $225,000, which is only slightly less than the PreRoll-ER 200 and about the same as the AuraX, but it offers less SKU flexibility and training. 

Even though ROI is strong for brands producing only straight-rolls at higher volume, its single-SKU limitation will cap long-term profitability, especially compared to more versatile, scalable systems like the PreRoll-Er 200 or Hefestus AuraX.

Pros

• TruRoll™ Technology: Proprietary system mimics hand-rolling for consistent, tight joints with smooth, even burns.
• Simple Operation: Intuitive interface with straightforward onboarding requiring minimal training and maintenance.
• Strong Mid-Volume Output: Produces 900+ joints per hour (up to 5,000 per shift), suitable for mid-sized operations with steady demand of straight-roll SKUs.

Cons

• Single SKU Limitation: Restricted to straight-roll/cigarette-style joints only with no ability to produce cones or other formats.
• Lower Production: Output of 900 joints/hour trails behind PreRoll-Er 200 (1,300/hour) and AuraX (2,000/hour).
• High Price with Limited Versatility: At $225,000, costs nearly the same as multi-SKU systems that offer higher output and greater flexibility.

Best For

The RollPros Blackbird is best for mid-sized cannabis brands that exclusively produce straight-roll or cigarette-style joints and want to automate their workflows. It’s ideal for those with a strong market demand for traditional hand-roll products, as well as if you don’t anticipate expanding into cones, infused products, or other pre-roll SKUs in the near future. 

PreRoll-Er 200 Overview

The PreRoll-Er 200 is an automated pre-roll machine that’s built for mid-sized operations seeking to scale to 15,000+ joints per month. It offers more versatility than the BlackBird, but bridges the gap between the high-output, enterprise-grade capabilities of the AuraX. 

This machine automates filling, weighing, and quality control in a single workflow, making it an efficient option for producers seeking to shift from manual or semi-automated workflows to more consistent, compliance-focused workflows. 

The PreRoll-Er 200 produces up to 1,300 pre-rolls, more than the RollPros Blackbird’s 900 per hour, but less than the AuraX’s 2,000+ per hour. The machine also prioritizes consistent weights within ±0.01 grams to reduce waste and ensure compliance. 

The PreRoll-Er 200 does so with its automated loader, built-in scale, and reject station, which not only automates the workflow for filling cones but also automates post-fill steps such as weighing and quality assurance. 

In terms of versatility the PreRoll-Er 200 can accommodate various cone SKUs and infused flower, making it more adaptable to consumer trends than the Blackbird, but not as advanced as the AuraX, which runs a variety of concentrates from heavier rosins to diamonds. 

In terms of capabilities and volume, the PreRoll-Er 200 bridges the gap between the limitations of the Blackbird and the enterprise-style output of the AuraX, making it best for mid-sized operators who desire flexibility before scaling up to the highest volume. 

When it comes to training and support, the PreRoll-Er 200 comes with installation assistance and remote onboarding, as well as integrated cameras for ongoing troubleshooting. However, unlike Hefestus, it doesn’t provide a whole week of on-site training or 24/7 global support.  

So, while its more straightforward mechanics are easier to grasp without hands-on training, the ongoing optimization will depend on the individual PreRoll-Er 200 operator. This training gap can complicate staff changes, and PreRoll-Er doesn’t offer the same level of support as a company like Hefestus.

At around $275,000, the PreRoll-Er 200 is a serious investment. While it does replace multiple labor positions and offers a rapid ROI, this initial capital makes it out of reach for many early-stage operators. 

Financing and leasing options are available, which help ease the upfront cost. But keep in mind that once production exceeds 30,000 joints per month, its throughput ceiling becomes clear, and the AuraX’s higher capacity and flexibility offer a more scalable solution.

Pros

• Mid-High Volume Output: Produces up to 1,300 pre-rolls per hour, significantly outpacing the Blackbird while maintaining quality and consistency.
• Multi-SKU Versatility: Accommodates various cone sizes and infused flower products, allowing brands to adapt to consumer trends and diversify product lines.
• Integrated Quality Control: Automated weighing (±0.01g accuracy), loading, and reject station streamline compliance and reduce waste in a single workflow.

Cons

• High Upfront Investment: At $275,000, the price point is steep for early-stage operators, though financing options are available.
• Limited Training & Support: Offers remote onboarding and camera-assisted troubleshooting, but lacks the comprehensive on-site training and 24/7 support.
• Throughput Ceiling: Output caps become apparent beyond 30,000 joints per month, limiting scalability for rapidly growing operations.

Best For

The PreRoll-Er 200 is best for mid-sized operations transitioning from manual or semi-automated processes to fully automated workflows, seeking integrated quality assurance and compliance features. It’s ideal if you’re producing up to 30,000 joints per month and need multi-SKU flexibility. Best-fit operations will also have stable staffing and internal technical capability, as PreRoll-Er’s limited training and support require self-sufficient operators who can optimize workflows independently.

Hefestus AuraX Overview

The Hefestus AuraX is a fully automated and enterprise-grade, high-volume pre-roll production machine designed for maximum throughput, consistency, and versatility. 

Manufactured by Hefestus, with over 30 years of engineering experience as a global automation leader and over a decade in cannabis technology, the AuraX is by far the most advanced piece of equipment capable of automating nearly every step of the manufacturing process. 

From filling pre-roll cones, blunts, and straight-rolls, to folding, packing, and sealing (even weighing and packaging with its modular add-ons), the AuraX automates workflows with efficiency, scalability, and profitability in mind. 

Our machine produces 2,000+ pre-rolls per hour with a single operator, doubling the output of PreRoll-Er 200, and more than doubling that of the Blackbird. Its speed and precision make it an ideal fit for MSOs, co-packers, and enterprise-style facilities producing 10k-30k+ pre-rolls a month. 

With the AuraX, your operation won’t be limited to straight rolls or restricted in the type of infused material you can fill. The machine’s unmatched capabilities fill cones, straight-rolls, blunts, and infused SKUs with wax, rosin, diamonds, etc., without retooling or equipment changes. 

Beyond versatility, the AuraX delivers on quality and consistency, offering uniform density and airflow for the even burn that your customers will keep coming back for. This increase in customer retention and quality allows for higher profitability while reducing labor costs. 

If you pair the AuraX with our Weight Checker and AutoTube add-ons, you can expand your automation capabilities to include weighing and packaging, further streamlining your workflow while ensuring comlpiance and minimizng downtime.

Hefestus outshines both RollPros and the PreRoll-Er 200 in terms of support and training, maximizing uptime for operators. Not only does the AuraX include five days of on-site setup and SOP development, but we also provide 24/7 from our globally distributed technician team.

Having the power to customize workflows for individual SKUs and to reach Hefestus support in both the U.S. and Israel enables you to minimize downtime and optimize long-term performance.

Compared to the limited remote support offered by the PreRoll-Er 200 and a simpler setup training from RollPros, Hefestus provides the most comprehensive service and onboarding in the industry.

As for price, the AuraX costs around $230,000, which is only slightly more than the Blackbird, and far less than the less-versatile PreRoll-Er 200. With superior throughput and faster ROI, operators benefit from labor savings, continuous uptime, and SKU flexibility, driving profitability. 

Hefestus also offers flexible financing options designed to scale with operators, making it an accessible choice for growth-minded producers aiming to efficiently and sustainably scale enterprise-style volume. 

Pros

• Production Capacity: Produces 2,000+ pre-rolls per hour with a single operator, doubling the PreRoll-Er 200’s output and more than doubling the Blackbird’s.
• Maximum Versatility: Handles cones, straight-rolls, blunts, and diverse infused products (wax, rosin, diamonds) without retooling.
• Industry-Leading Support & Training: Includes 5 days of on-site setup, customized SOP development, and 24/7 global support, maximizing uptime.

Cons

• Enterprise Capabilities: Advanced capabilities and modular features require more sophisticated operation and may be overwhelming for smaller teams.
• Upfront Investment: At $230,000 (plus optional add-ons), the initial capital requirement is significant, though financing options and rapid ROI help offset costs.
• Overkill for Small Operations: High throughput and advanced features may exceed the needs of brands producing under 10,000 joints per month.

Best For

The Hefestus AuraX is best for high-volume, growth-minded pre-roll operators, MSOs, and co-packers who produce 10,000-30,000+ pre-rolls per month or plan to in the near future. It offers maximum efficiency and product diversification for those seeking ultimate flexibility, enabling the production of a variety of SKUs without downtime or equipment changes. It’s best for those prioritizing long-term scalability, comprehensive training, and support. 

RollPros Blackbird vs. PreRoll-Er 200 vs. Hefestus AuraX: How Do They Compare

When adding automation to your operation, it’s best to compare four features that relate to efficiency and long-term profitability: production volume, capabilities, training and support, and pricing and financing. 

To help, we’re breaking down all the similarities and differences in these four categories for the RollPros Blackbird, PreRoll-Er 200, and the Hefestsus AuraX. 

Production Volume

In regard to raw throughput and volume, the Hefestus AuraX dominates, producing over 2,000 pre-rolls per hour with only a single operator. This output is more than double the Blackbird’s 900 per hour, and significantly outpaces the PreRoll-Er 200’s at 1,300 per hour. 

Per month, the PreRoll-Er 200 serves the mid-range production volume at 15,000-25,000 joints, while the AuraX’s speed and output are ideal for facilities targeting 10,000-30,000+ joints, with lower labor costs and a faster ROI. 

For smaller operations, the Blackbird’s 900-hour capacity will suffice, primarily when specializing in straight-roll cigarette-style SKUs. Of course, this falls short for brands seeking diversified SKU production. 

While all three automate filling workflows, AuraX’s superior automation allows operators to maximize profitability while maintaining consistency. For production scalability, the AuraX is the clear winner, delivering enterprise-level volume that neither competitor can match.

Production Capabilities

Again, regarding versatility, there’s one machine that stands out: the AuraX. The AuraX is the only machine that handles every major pre-roll SKU, from cones to straight rolls, to blunts, and complex infused products, even using diamonds, wax, rosin, isolate, etc. 

It does so without hefty downtime, avoiding the need to retool or swap out equipment components. To compare the capabilities of the PreRoll-Er 200 and the Blackbird, these two machines also vary greatly. 

The PreRoll-Er 200 offers solid flexibility, accommodating various cone sizes and infused flower, but can struggle with some of the extract consistencies, which the AuraX handles with ease. In contrast, the Blackbird handles only straight-roll style joints. 

Beyond the type and size of pre-rolls they can manufacture, the AuraX can also support weighing and packaging. With the Weight Checker and AutoTube modular add-ons, teams can further streamline their workflows after filling. 

With all that said, the Blackbird’s proprietary TruRoll™ technology does excel at replicating hand-rolled aesthetics, but this single-SKU focus limits long-term growth potential as consumer preferences shift toward infused products and diverse formats. 

While the PreRoll-Er 200 bridges the gap between basic and advanced automation, it can’t match the AuraX’s range or depth. For brands prioritizing SKU diversification and future-proofing their production, AuraX’s versatility makes it the definitive choice.

Training & Support

Hefestus sets the standard for training and support with AuraX’s comprehensive onboarding package. Every equipment purchase includes five full days of on-site setup, including customized SOP development tailored to each operator’s specific SKUs.

From there, operators have 24/7 support from Hefestus’ global teams, based in both the U.S. and Israel. This level of support ensures minimal downtime by enabling you to troubleshoot in real time and continuously optimize workflows. 

The PreRoll-Er 200 provides installation assistance, remote onboarding, and camera-assisted troubleshooting to support initial setup. Still, long-term optimization and efficiency gains depend heavily on in-house technical expertise and self-sufficient operators. 

Finally, RollPros offers straightforward setup training for the Blackbird, which features an intuitive interface that requires minimal onboarding. However, it lacks the ongoing support infrastructure or SOP development needed to maximize operational efficiency over time. 

While simpler machines require less upfront training, AuraX’s structured support reduces the learning curve for complex workflows. For operators prioritizing uptime and scalability, AuraX’s world-class training and support ecosystem delivers unmatched value.

Price & Financing

Lastly, it’s time to talk about price. At approximately $230,000, the AuraX is priced just below the PreRoll-Er 200’s ~$275,000 and only slightly above the Blackbird’s ~$225,000. Yet, it delivers significantly more value through higher throughput, broader SKU capabilities, and faster ROI. 

Even more, while others offer financing, Hefestus offers flexible, cannabis-specific financing designed to scale with operations as they grow. This makes the upfront investment more accessible for mid-sized brands ready to automate at an enterprise level. 

As for ROI, timelines with both the Blackbird and the PreRoll-Er 200 are extended due to lower output (in both cases) and limited versatility (especially for the Blackbird). When factoring in labor savings and SKU flexibility, the AuraX’s total cost of ownership is the most favorable.

All in all, the AuraX also recovers its cost faster by replacing multiple labor positions, reducing per-unit production costs, and enabling diversified revenue streams through multi-SKU flexibility, all while maintaining the highest uptime in the category. 

For brands seeking the best balance of upfront investment, long-term profitability, and scalability, the AuraX offers superior value and the fastest path to ROI.

Conclusion: Which Pre-Roll Machine is Better For Your Operation?’

Now that you have the complete overview of the RollPros Blackbird, PreRoll-Er 200, and the Hefestus AuraX, and the comparisons of each machine, you’re better equipped to answer the question, which pre-roll machine is best for my operation? 

If you’re seeking high-volume, long-term scalability, with the most comprehensive support and training, there’s only one choice: the Hefestus AuraX. For those seeking exclusive straight-roll automation, the Blackbird is ideal; for those with lower volume, the PreRoll-Er 200 will suffice. 

Ready to empower your operation with the power of the AuraX? Get in touch with the world-class support and sales teams at Hefestus to learn more about features that’ll suit your growing operation, flexible financing, and more. 

Want to see how other machines stack up? Check out our other comparison articles:

• RollPros Blackbird vs. Hefestus AuraX
• Apehex vs. Hefestus AuraX
• PreRoll-Er 200 vs. Hefestus AuraX
• FLEXPAK MAX vs. Hefestus AuraX
• Canapa JuanaRoll-1 vs. Hefestus AuraX
• Accelerant PRO2 vs. Hefestus AuraX
• Sorting Robotics Jiko vs. Hefestus AuraX

RollPros Blackbird vs. PreRoll-Er 200 vs. Hefestus AuraX: Frequently Asked Questions

Before you go, check out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the RollPros Blackbird, PreRoll-Er 200, and the Hefestus AuraX. 

Why Choose the Hefestus AuraX Over the RollPros Blackbird and PreRoll-Er 200?

You should choose the Hefestus AuraX over the RollPros Blackbird and PreRoll-Er 200 if your operation plans to scale to 30,000+ joints per month and requires the flexibility to offer a variety of SKUs and infused materials, from wax to diamonds and beyond. 

Why Choose the RollPros Blackbird Over the PreRoll-Er 200 and Hefestus AuraX?

You should choose the RollPros Blackbird over the PreRoll-Er 200 and Hefestus AuraX if your operation exclusively produces cigarette-style straight-rolls and doesn’t require the extra complexity for future expansion. 

Why Choose the PreRoll-Er 200 Over the RollPros Blackbird and Hefestus AuraX?

You should choose the PreRoll-Er 200 if you require versatility in pre-roll types, but not infusion materials, and if scaling to a maximum output of 30,000+ per month is not a priority for long-term growth.