Creality Ender 3 V3 SE vs Creality Ender 5 S1
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Creality printers? The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE ($218) and Creality Ender 5 S1 ($399) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $181 gap between them. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE takes the crown with 8/10 vs 7.4/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness. The Creality Ender 5 S1 still puts up a fight in Print Quality.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Creality Ender 3 V3 SE | Creality Ender 5 S1 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $218 | $399 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 250 mm | 220 x 220 x 280 mm |
| Print Speed | 250 mm/s | 250 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 7.8 kg | 10.2 kg |
| Overall Score | 8/10 | 7.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE
+Auto-leveling that works on the first try, not the fourth
+Direct drive means you can print TPU without fighting the extruder
+r/ender3 has 200,000 members who've fixed every problem you'll ever have
+Spare parts are everywhere and cheap
−250mm/s max is half what CoreXY printers do at this price in 2024
−Open frame, no WiFi, no camera: this is a no-frills machine
−Firmware updates require a USB stick and patience
Creality Ender 5 S1
+Cube frame is mechanically stiffer than bed-slinger designs: first layers are more consistent
+Sprite direct drive handles TPU and flexible filaments properly
+220x220x280mm Z-height is the standout dimension for tall prints
+Stock experience is genuinely good without requiring calibration
−250mm/s is embarrassingly slow in 2024: this is not a speed machine
−No WiFi means manual file management every time
−$399 is a lot when the Bambu A1 Mini does more for $199
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE if you want:
- A great printer for beginners
- A great printer for budget
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive extruder
- PEI build plate
Choose the Creality Ender 5 S1 if you want:
- A great printer for beginners
- A great printer for reliability
- Cube frame
- Direct drive
- Auto bed leveling
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE better than the Creality Ender 5 S1?
By the numbers, the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE scores higher (8/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Creality Ender 5 S1 may be the smarter buy if you need beginners.
Which is better for beginners, Creality Ender 3 V3 SE or Creality Ender 5 S1?
The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE is more beginner-friendly (9/10 vs 8/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Creality Ender 5 S1 worth $181 more than the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE?
The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE actually scores higher (8/10) despite costing $181 less. The Creality Ender 5 S1 only makes sense if you specifically need beginners.
What's the main difference between Creality Ender 3 V3 SE and Creality Ender 5 S1?
Build volume (220x220x250mm vs 220x220x280mm) and print speed (250 vs 250 mm/s). The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE is best for beginners; the Creality Ender 5 S1 targets beginners.