Elegoo Mars 4 vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Elegoo printers? The Elegoo Mars 4 ($149) and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra ($284) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $135 gap between them. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 7.2/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Mars 4 saves you $135 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 4 | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149 | $284 |
| Type | RESIN | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 153 x 77 x 165 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 80 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.02 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 6.2 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Mars 4
+$149 entry into Elegoo's quality resin lineup
+7K resolution is still detailed enough for D&D and Warhammer minis
+WiFi monitoring included even at this price
+Elegoo's brand reliability is the best in budget resin
−No tilt release: FEP films will need replacing more often than the Ultra variants
−7K detail is noticeably softer than the 9K and 12K machines on fine surface textures
−Slower at 80mm/hr vs 100mm/hr on the Ultra
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution renders chainmail and sword hilts at a level FDM can't get near
+Tilt release means fewer ripped FEP films mid-print
+Built-in air purifier cuts the resin smell noticeably; still needs ventilation but less aggressively
+WiFi monitoring so you don't have to babysit the machine
−Build plate is 153x89mm: anything larger needs to be sliced and assembled
−Resin printing means gloves, IPA, and a wash station are non-negotiable purchases
−Post-processing adds 30-45 minutes after every print: wash, cure, support removal
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Elegoo Mars 4 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- 7K mono LCD
- WiFi
- USB
Choose the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for detail
- 14K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Mars 4 better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Elegoo Mars 4 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 4 or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is more beginner-friendly (7/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra worth $135 more than the Elegoo Mars 4?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher overall (8.2/10 vs 7.2/10). The extra $135 gets you 14k resolution renders chainmail and sword hilts at a level fdm can't get near.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 4 and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Build volume (153x77x165mm vs 153x89x200mm) and print speed (80 vs 150 mm/s). The Elegoo Mars 4 is best for budget; the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra targets miniatures.