Bambu Lab P1S vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Bambu Lab P1S ($449, 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 Bambu Lab P1S takes the crown with 9/10 vs 8.2/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra saves you $165 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $284 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
Bambu Lab P1S
+HEPA filter actually handles ABS fumes, not just PLA smell
+CoreXY at 500mm/s inside an enclosed chamber
+Reliability track record is as good as anything at this price
+AMS multi-material works without the constant jams you get on cheaper systems
−$449 without AMS, which adds another $100-150 on top
−Enclosure lid has to come off to reach prints mid-job
−P1P owners considering an upgrade: this is it, but it stings
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 Bambu Lab P1S if you want:
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for abs
- A great printer for enclosed
- Enclosed
- Multi-material (AMS)
- 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 Bambu Lab P1S better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra may be the smarter buy if you need miniatures.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Bambu Lab P1S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Bambu Lab P1S worth $165 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Bambu Lab P1S scores higher overall (9/10 vs 8.2/10). The extra $165 gets you hepa filter actually handles abs fumes, not just pla smell.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Technology: the Bambu Lab P1S is FDM (filament) and the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.