Bambu Lab P1S vs Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Bambu Lab P1S ($599, FDM) and Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra ($299, 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 8/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra saves you $300 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P1S | Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $299 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 218 x 123 x 260 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 14.13 kg | 10.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 9/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Bambu Lab P1S
+Fully enclosed for ABS/ASA
+HEPA filter for fumes
+Rock-solid reliability
+Excellent multi-material
−Pricier than open-frame alternatives
−Enclosure limits access during prints
−AMS sold separately
Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra
+12K resolution across a large build plate
+Tilt release for longer FEP life
+Batch print entire armies
+Great for busts and terrain
−Heavy resin consumption at full plate
−Post-processing takes longer at this size
−Still needs wash & cure station
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 Saturn 3 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for large-prints
- 12K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bambu Lab P1S better than the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P1S scores higher (9/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra may be the smarter buy if you need resin.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P1S or Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra?
The Bambu Lab P1S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Bambu Lab P1S worth $300 more than the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra?
The Bambu Lab P1S scores higher overall (9/10 vs 8/10). The extra $300 gets you fully enclosed for abs/asa.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P1S and Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra?
Technology: the Bambu Lab P1S is FDM (filament) and the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.