Elegoo Jupiter SE vs QIDI X-Max 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Elegoo Jupiter SE ($340, RESIN) and QIDI X-Max 3 ($799, FDM) 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 QIDI X-Max 3 takes the crown with 8/10 vs 7.8/10. It pulls ahead in Speed. That said, the Elegoo Jupiter SE saves you $459 and wins on Print Quality.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Jupiter SE | QIDI X-Max 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $340 | $799 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 277 x 156 x 300 mm | 325 x 325 x 315 mm |
| Print Speed | 70 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 18 kg | 25 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Jupiter SE
+277mm wide platform prints full-size miniature armies or large costume props in one run
+12.8-inch 6K mono screen gives better per-pixel resolution than smaller 8.9-inch screens
+COB light source delivers more even illumination across the full platform vs edge-to-edge LED arrays
+Tilt release reduces print-failure rate on large cross-sections
−18kg machine: this is a semi-permanent desk fixture, not something you move around
−Large FEP sheets cost more to replace and are harder to swap than smaller printer FEPs
−Resin handling requires PPE and ventilation regardless of size; a large vat means more resin exposure risk
−Steep beginner learning curve: hollow supports and drainage holes are mandatory at this scale
QIDI X-Max 3
+325mm enclosed with 60C active heating is a combination you almost can't find under $1,500
+Independent Z motors keep the bed trammed even on 24-hour prints
+Handles PA-CF and PC natively without a fight
+600mm/s in a large-format heated chamber is rare at any price
−25kg: set it up once and it lives there
−$799 with a smaller community than Bambu means you're mostly on your own troubleshooting
−QIDI's slicer profiles are thin for specialty materials
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Elegoo Jupiter SE if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for professional
- 12.8-inch 6K mono LCD screen
- 277x156x300mm build volume
- COB mono light source (60,000-hour lifespan)
Choose the QIDI X-Max 3 if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for professional
- Enclosed
- Large CoreXY
- Chamber heating (60C)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Jupiter SE better than the QIDI X-Max 3?
By the numbers, the QIDI X-Max 3 scores higher (8/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Elegoo Jupiter SE may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Jupiter SE or QIDI X-Max 3?
Both score 6/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Jupiter SE to save $459.
Is the QIDI X-Max 3 worth $459 more than the Elegoo Jupiter SE?
The QIDI X-Max 3 scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7.8/10). The extra $459 gets you 325mm enclosed with 60c active heating is a combination you almost can't find under $1,500.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Jupiter SE and QIDI X-Max 3?
Technology: the Elegoo Jupiter SE is RESIN (filament) and the QIDI X-Max 3 is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.