Bambu Lab P1S vs Elegoo Neptune 4
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Bambu Lab P1S and Elegoo Neptune 4 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $449 vs $199. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Bambu Lab P1S takes the crown with 9/10 vs 8.2/10. It pulls ahead in Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Neptune 4 saves you $250 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Elegoo Neptune 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $449 | $199 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 225 x 225 x 265 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 9.5 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 Neptune 4
+Klipper at $199 means real input shaping and pressure advance, not just fast travel speeds
+Direct drive handles TPU without a fight
+500mm/s capable on stock profiles
+225mm bed is slightly larger than the V3 KE at the same price
−No WiFi on the base model: Elegoo charges extra for connectivity the KE includes free
−Elegoo's community is smaller than Creality's, which matters when you hit unusual problems
−Klipper config occasionally needs manual edits out of the box
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 Neptune 4 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for speed
- A great printer for beginners
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Elegoo Neptune 4?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Elegoo Neptune 4 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Elegoo Neptune 4?
Both score 8/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Neptune 4 to save $250.
Is the Bambu Lab P1S worth $250 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4?
The Bambu Lab P1S scores higher overall (9/10 vs 8.2/10). The extra $250 gets you hepa filter actually handles abs fumes, not just pla smell.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Elegoo Neptune 4?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 225x225x265mm) and print speed (500 vs 500 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P1S is best for engineering; the Elegoo Neptune 4 targets budget.