Anycubic Kobra 2 Max vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max ($399, FDM) and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra ($284, RESIN) use fundamentally different technologies. FDM melts filament layer by layer; resin cures liquid with UV light. Here's how they stack up.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 7/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Kobra 2 Max | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $284 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 420 x 420 x 500 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 20.5 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Kobra 2 Max
+Massive 420x420x500mm at $399
+Direct drive at this size
+WiFi connectivity
+Great for large cosplay pieces
−Open frame only
−Large footprint needs dedicated space
−Slower at full bed utilization
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution for insane detail
+Tilt release reduces peel forces
+Built-in air purifier
+WiFi control
−Small build plate for larger models
−Resin printing is messier than FDM
−Requires post-processing (wash + cure)
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for cosplay
- A great printer for budget
- 420x420x500mm build
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Choose the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for detail
- 14K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Kobra 2 Max or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is more beginner-friendly (7/10 vs 5/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max worth $115 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $115 less. The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Kobra 2 Max and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Technology: the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max is FDM (filament) and the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.