Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra vs Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Elegoo printers? The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra ($284) and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus ($299) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $15 gap between them. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus takes the crown with 8.4/10 vs 8.2/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness, Speed. That said, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra saves you $15 and wins on Print Quality.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $284 | $299 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 153 x 89 x 200 mm | 320 x 320 x 385 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 7.5 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
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 Plus
+320×320×385mm at $299 — the largest build volume at this price point
+Stock Klipper means real input shaping, pressure advance, and Moonraker API access
+Direct-drive handles TPU and flexible filaments without clog risk
+Mainsail interface enables remote monitoring and print farm integration
+Dual Z-axis prevents gantry sag on tall prints
−Open-frame limits material compatibility — ABS/ASA require an enclosure
−500mm/s achievable but optimal quality typically at 200-300mm/s
−Large bed means longer homing and leveling cycles
−Elegoo's support and community is smaller than Creality's
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 Plus if you want:
- A great printer for large-format
- A great printer for value
- A great printer for beginner
- A great printer for speed
- Stock Klipper firmware with Mainsail web interface
- 320×320×385mm XL build volume
- 500mm/s max print speed with input shaping
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra better than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher (8.4/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra may be the smarter buy if you need miniatures.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra or Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus worth $15 more than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher overall (8.4/10 vs 8.2/10). The extra $15 gets you 320×320×385mm at $299 — the largest build volume at this price point.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
Technology: the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is RESIN (filament) and the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.