Elegoo Centauri Carbon vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Elegoo printers? The Elegoo Centauri Carbon ($299) and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus ($299) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus takes the crown with 8.4/10 vs 8.2/10. It pulls ahead in Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Centauri Carbon | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $299 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 256 x 256 x 256 mm | 320 x 320 x 385 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.1 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 17.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Centauri Carbon
+Enclosed CoreXY at $299. Yes, really.
+PLA, PETG, ABS: all print well out of the box
+Pre-assembled, printing within minutes of opening the box
+Carbon-fiber-infused materials are a go
−Firmware needs attention after unboxing
−Heat creep shows up on long prints above 270C
−Elegoo's ecosystem is years behind Bambu's
−17.5kg for a 256mm build volume is heavy
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 Elegoo Centauri Carbon if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for enclosed
- A great printer for beginners
- Enclosed CoreXY
- Auto bed leveling (4 pressure sensors)
- Chamber camera monitoring
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 Elegoo Centauri Carbon 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 Elegoo Centauri Carbon may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Centauri Carbon or Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Both score 8/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Centauri Carbon to save $0.
Which is the better value, Elegoo Centauri Carbon or Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Same price ($299), so it comes down to features. The Elegoo Centauri Carbon edges ahead on value score.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Centauri Carbon and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Build volume (256x256x256mm vs 320x320x385mm) and print speed (500 vs 500 mm/s). The Elegoo Centauri Carbon is best for budget; the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus targets large-format.