Creality CR-M4 vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Creality CR-M4 ($599, 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 Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 6/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Creality CR-M4 | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $284 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 450 x 450 x 470 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 200 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 38 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 6/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
Creality CR-M4
+Enormous 450mm build volume
+Prints cosplay armor in near-full size
+Relatively affordable for the volume
+Dual Z axis for stability
−Very slow by modern standards
−Huge footprint (needs dedicated space)
−Open frame
−Heavy to move
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution for insane detail
+Tilt release reduces peel forces
+Built-in air purifier
+WiFi control
−Small build plate for larger models
−Resin printing is messier than FDM
−Requires post-processing (wash + cure)
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Creality CR-M4 if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for cosplay
- A great printer for professional
- 450x450x470mm build volume
- Auto bed leveling
- Dual Z motors
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 Creality CR-M4 better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Creality CR-M4 may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Creality CR-M4 or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is more beginner-friendly (7/10 vs 4/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Creality CR-M4 worth $315 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $315 less. The Creality CR-M4 only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Creality CR-M4 and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Technology: the Creality CR-M4 is FDM (filament) and the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.