Anycubic Photon Mono 2 vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Max
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 ($169, RESIN) and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max ($469, FDM) 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 7/10 overall. The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 wins in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, while the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max takes Speed. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Photon Mono 2 | Elegoo Neptune 4 Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169 | $469 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 143 x 89 x 165 mm | 420 x 420 x 480 mm |
| Print Speed | 80 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.02 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 5.5 kg | 22 kg |
| Overall Score | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Photon Mono 2
+Budget resin entry point from a known brand
+6K sufficient for most miniatures
+Small and portable
+Well-supported by Photon Workshop
−6K below current 9K/12K standard
−No WiFi
−No tilt release
−Very small build plate
Elegoo Neptune 4 Max
+420mm build volume at $469
+Klipper pre-installed
+Great for props and cosplay
+Direct drive
−Huge footprint
−Slower at this bed size
−Open frame
−Large prints need adhesion care
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- 6K mono LCD
- USB
- Anycubic Photon Workshop slicer
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for cosplay
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
They tie at 7/10. The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 suits budget and resin, while the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is aimed at large-prints and budget.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Photon Mono 2 or Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is more beginner-friendly (6/10 vs 5/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max worth $300 more than the Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 actually scores higher (7/10) despite costing $300 less. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Photon Mono 2 and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
Technology: the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is RESIN (filament) and the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.