Bambu Lab P2S vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Max
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Bambu Lab P2S and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max are both FDM 3D printers competing in the same price bracket — $549 vs $469. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Bambu Lab P2S takes the crown with 8.8/10 vs 7/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max saves you $80.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Bambu Lab P2S | Elegoo Neptune 4 Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $549 | $469 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 420 x 420 x 480 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 14.9 kg | 22 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.8/10 | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
Bambu Lab P2S
+Quick-swap nozzle system is a game-changer
+1080p camera with AI failure detection
+Adaptive cooling pulls in outside air or recirculates
+AMS 2 Pro doubles as a filament dryer
−No LiDAR sensor (reserved for X-series)
−No upgrade path from P1S
−AMS 2 Pro wastes filament on color changes
−$799 for the Combo adds up quickly
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 Bambu Lab P2S if you want:
- A great printer for speed
- A great printer for enclosed
- A great printer for multi-color
- Enclosed CoreXY
- AMS 2 Pro compatible
- 5-inch touchscreen
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 Bambu Lab P2S better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
By the numbers, the Bambu Lab P2S scores higher (8.8/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Bambu Lab P2S or Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
The Bambu Lab P2S is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 5/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Bambu Lab P2S worth $80 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
The Bambu Lab P2S scores higher overall (8.8/10 vs 7/10). The extra $80 gets you quick-swap nozzle system is a game-changer.
What's the main difference between Bambu Lab P2S and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 420x420x480mm) and print speed (500 vs 500 mm/s). The Bambu Lab P2S is best for speed; the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max targets large-prints.