Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra vs Elegoo Neptune 4
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Elegoo printers? The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra ($284) and Elegoo Neptune 4 ($199) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $85 gap between them. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat, both score 8.2/10 overall. The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra wins in Print Quality, Reliability, while the Elegoo Neptune 4 takes Value, Beginner Friendliness, Speed. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra | Elegoo Neptune 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $284 | $199 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 153 x 89 x 200 mm | 225 x 225 x 265 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 7.5 kg | 9.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
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
Elegoo Neptune 4
+Klipper at $199 means real input shaping and pressure advance, not just fast travel speeds
+Direct drive handles TPU without a fight
+500mm/s capable on stock profiles
+225mm bed is slightly larger than the V3 KE at the same price
−No WiFi on the base model: Elegoo charges extra for connectivity the KE includes free
−Elegoo's community is smaller than Creality's, which matters when you hit unusual problems
−Klipper config occasionally needs manual edits out of the box
Who Should Buy Which?
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
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for speed
- A great printer for beginners
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra better than the Elegoo Neptune 4?
They tie at 8.2/10. The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra suits miniatures and resin, while the Elegoo Neptune 4 is aimed at budget and speed.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra or Elegoo Neptune 4?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra worth $85 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $85 less. The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra only makes sense if you specifically need miniatures.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and Elegoo Neptune 4?
Technology: the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (filament) and the Elegoo Neptune 4 is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.