Creality Ender 3 V3 SE vs QIDI X-Smart 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE and QIDI X-Smart 3 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers — $218 vs $349. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat — both score 8/10 overall. The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE wins in Value, Beginner Friendliness, while the QIDI X-Smart 3 takes Print Quality, Speed. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Creality Ender 3 V3 SE | QIDI X-Smart 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $218 | $349 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 250 mm | 175 x 175 x 165 mm |
| Print Speed | 250 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 7.8 kg | 9.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE
+Unbeatable price
+Auto-leveling works well
+Direct drive handles TPU
+Huge community support
−Slower than CoreXY machines
−Open frame
−No WiFi or camera
−Manual firmware updates
QIDI X-Smart 3
+Fully enclosed in a compact footprint
+Chamber heating for better layer adhesion
+Good software experience
+Fast CoreXY
−Small 175mm build volume
−QIDI ecosystem smaller than Bambu
−175mm limits large prints
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 QIDI X-Smart 3 if you want:
- A great printer for compact
- A great printer for enclosed
- A great printer for beginners
- Enclosed CoreXY
- Chamber heating (35C)
- Auto bed leveling
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE better than the QIDI X-Smart 3?
They tie at 8/10. The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE suits beginners and budget, while the QIDI X-Smart 3 is aimed at compact and enclosed.
Which is better for beginners, Creality Ender 3 V3 SE or QIDI X-Smart 3?
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 QIDI X-Smart 3 worth $131 more than the Creality Ender 3 V3 SE?
The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE actually scores higher (8/10) despite costing $131 less. The QIDI X-Smart 3 only makes sense if you specifically need compact.
What's the main difference between Creality Ender 3 V3 SE and QIDI X-Smart 3?
Build volume (220x220x250mm vs 175x175x165mm) and print speed (250 vs 600 mm/s). The Creality Ender 3 V3 SE is best for beginners; the QIDI X-Smart 3 targets compact.