Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra vs QIDI iBox Mono2
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and QIDI iBox Mono2 are both RESIN 3D printers competing in the same price bracket — $284 vs $229. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 6.4/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the QIDI iBox Mono2 saves you $55.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra | QIDI iBox Mono2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $284 | $229 |
| Type | RESIN | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 153 x 89 x 200 mm | 120 x 68 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 90 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 7.5 kg | 5.2 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 6.4/10 |
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)
QIDI iBox Mono2
+Compact enclosed design reduces odor spread
+WiFi standard
+QIDI build quality
+Minimal desk footprint
−4K resolution dated
−Smaller build volume
−QIDI resin community less established
−Pricier than alternatives at this spec
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 QIDI iBox Mono2 if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for compact
- 4K mono LCD
- Enclosed design
- WiFi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra better than the QIDI iBox Mono2?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the QIDI iBox Mono2 may be the smarter buy if you need resin.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra or QIDI iBox Mono2?
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 $55 more than the QIDI iBox Mono2?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher overall (8.2/10 vs 6.4/10). The extra $55 gets you 14k resolution for insane detail.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and QIDI iBox Mono2?
Build volume (153x89x200mm vs 120x68x200mm) and print speed (150 vs 90 mm/s). The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is best for miniatures; the QIDI iBox Mono2 targets resin.