Elegoo Mars 4 vs QIDI X-Max 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Elegoo Mars 4 ($149, 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 7.2/10. It pulls ahead in Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Elegoo Mars 4 saves you $650 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 4 | QIDI X-Max 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $149 | $799 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 153 x 77 x 165 mm | 325 x 325 x 315 mm |
| Print Speed | 80 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.02 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 6.2 kg | 25 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.2/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Mars 4
+Cheapest Elegoo Mars with WiFi
+7K resolution still excellent for minis
+Small footprint
+Known brand reliability
−No tilt release (higher FEP wear)
−Slower than Ultra variants
−7K less sharp than 9K/12K siblings
QIDI X-Max 3
+Large enclosed build volume
+Active chamber heating
+Handles all engineering materials
+Independent Z motors
−Heavy
−Expensive
−QIDI ecosystem
−Requires dedicated space
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 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 Mars 4 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 Mars 4 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 4 or QIDI X-Max 3?
Both score 6/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Mars 4 to save $650.
Is the QIDI X-Max 3 worth $650 more than the Elegoo Mars 4?
The QIDI X-Max 3 scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7.2/10). The extra $650 gets you large enclosed build volume.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 4 and QIDI X-Max 3?
Technology: the Elegoo Mars 4 is RESIN (filament) and the QIDI X-Max 3 is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.