Anycubic Photon Mono M5s vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s ($339, RESIN) and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus ($299, 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
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus takes the crown with 8.4/10 vs 7.8/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness, Speed. The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s still puts up a fight in Print Quality.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Photon Mono M5s | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $339 | $299 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 218 x 123 x 220 mm | 320 x 320 x 385 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
+14K resolution on a Saturn-size plate is the highest resolution in this build volume class
+Anti-warping release mechanism measurably reduces failed prints on larger models
+218x123mm plate handles busts, terrain, and multi-model runs
+Anycubic's community has solid troubleshooting documentation
−Pricier than the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra at comparable specs
−Discontinued: Anycubic support and firmware updates are ending
−App is functional but rougher than Elegoo's
Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
+320×320×385mm at $299 — the largest build volume at this price point
+Stock Klipper means real input shaping, pressure advance, and Moonraker API access
+Direct-drive handles TPU and flexible filaments without clog risk
+Mainsail interface enables remote monitoring and print farm integration
+Dual Z-axis prevents gantry sag on tall prints
−Open-frame limits material compatibility — ABS/ASA require an enclosure
−500mm/s achievable but optimal quality typically at 200-300mm/s
−Large bed means longer homing and leveling cycles
−Elegoo's support and community is smaller than Creality's
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for detail
- 14K mono LCD
- Anti-warping release
- Dual cooling
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus if you want:
- A great printer for large-format
- A great printer for value
- A great printer for beginner
- A great printer for speed
- Stock Klipper firmware with Mainsail web interface
- 320×320×385mm XL build volume
- 500mm/s max print speed with input shaping
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher (8.4/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s may be the smarter buy if you need resin.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Photon Mono M5s or Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s worth $40 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus actually scores higher (8.4/10) despite costing $40 less. The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s only makes sense if you specifically need resin.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Photon Mono M5s and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Technology: the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is RESIN (filament) and the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.