Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Max
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Choosing between two Elegoo printers? The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra ($284) and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max ($469) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $185 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 7/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra | Elegoo Neptune 4 Max |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $284 | $469 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 153 x 89 x 200 mm | 420 x 420 x 480 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 7.5 kg | 22 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution for insane detail
+Tilt release reduces peel forces
+Built-in air purifier
+WiFi control
−Small build plate for larger models
−Resin printing is messier than FDM
−Requires post-processing (wash + cure)
Elegoo Neptune 4 Max
+420mm build volume at $469
+Klipper pre-installed
+Great for props and cosplay
+Direct drive
−Huge footprint
−Slower at this bed size
−Open frame
−Large prints need adhesion care
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 Max if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for cosplay
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra or Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is more beginner-friendly (7/10 vs 5/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max worth $185 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $185 less. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and Elegoo Neptune 4 Max?
Technology: the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (filament) and the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.