Anycubic Kobra 3 vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Anycubic Kobra 3 ($299, 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
It's a dead heat, both score 8.2/10 overall. The Anycubic Kobra 3 wins in Beginner Friendliness, Speed, while the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes Print Quality, Reliability. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Kobra 3 | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $284 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 250 x 250 x 260 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 600 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 9 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Kobra 3
+CoreXY at 600mm/s for $299 is Bambu A1 territory
+WiFi and camera come standard without paying extra
+Add the ACE Pro multi-color system later if you want it
+Open frame is accessible for maintenance
−Anycubic's slicer software is behind Bambu Studio in polish and usability
−No multi-color out of the box: the A1 Combo at $399 already includes it
−Limited long-term data: first-gen product with fewer community fixes documented
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution renders chainmail and sword hilts at a level FDM can't get near
+Tilt release means fewer ripped FEP films mid-print
+Built-in air purifier cuts the resin smell noticeably; still needs ventilation but less aggressively
+WiFi monitoring so you don't have to babysit the machine
−Build plate is 153x89mm: anything larger needs to be sliced and assembled
−Resin printing means gloves, IPA, and a wash station are non-negotiable purchases
−Post-processing adds 30-45 minutes after every print: wash, cure, support removal
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Kobra 3 if you want:
- A great printer for speed
- A great printer for beginners
- A great printer for budget
- CoreXY
- Auto bed leveling
- WiFi
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 3 better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
They tie at 8.2/10. The Anycubic Kobra 3 suits speed and beginners, while the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is aimed at miniatures and resin.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Kobra 3 or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Anycubic Kobra 3 is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Anycubic Kobra 3 worth $15 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $15 less. The Anycubic Kobra 3 only makes sense if you specifically need speed.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Kobra 3 and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Technology: the Anycubic Kobra 3 is FDM (filament) and the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.