Creality Ender 5 S1 vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Creality Ender 5 S1 and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $399 vs $299. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus takes the crown with 8.4/10 vs 7.4/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Speed.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Creality Ender 5 S1 | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $299 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 280 mm | 320 x 320 x 385 mm |
| Print Speed | 250 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 10.2 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.4/10 | 8.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
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
Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
+320×320×385mm at $299 — the largest build volume at this price point
+Stock Klipper means real input shaping, pressure advance, and Moonraker API access
+Direct-drive handles TPU and flexible filaments without clog risk
+Mainsail interface enables remote monitoring and print farm integration
+Dual Z-axis prevents gantry sag on tall prints
−Open-frame limits material compatibility — ABS/ASA require an enclosure
−500mm/s achievable but optimal quality typically at 200-300mm/s
−Large bed means longer homing and leveling cycles
−Elegoo's support and community is smaller than Creality's
Who Should Buy Which?
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
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus if you want:
- A great printer for large-format
- A great printer for value
- A great printer for beginner
- A great printer for speed
- Stock Klipper firmware with Mainsail web interface
- 320×320×385mm XL build volume
- 500mm/s max print speed with input shaping
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Creality Ender 5 S1 better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher (8.4/10). 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 5 S1 or Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Both score 8/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus to save $100.
Is the Creality Ender 5 S1 worth $100 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus actually scores higher (8.4/10) despite costing $100 less. The Creality Ender 5 S1 only makes sense if you specifically need beginners.
What's the main difference between Creality Ender 5 S1 and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Build volume (220x220x280mm vs 320x320x385mm) and print speed (250 vs 500 mm/s). The Creality Ender 5 S1 is best for beginners; the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus targets large-format.