Elegoo Neptune 4 Max vs Longer Orange 4K
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max ($469, FDM) and Longer Orange 4K ($129, RESIN) 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 Elegoo Neptune 4 Max takes the crown with 7/10 vs 6.4/10. It pulls ahead in Speed, Reliability. That said, the Longer Orange 4K saves you $340 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Neptune 4 Max | Longer Orange 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $469 | $129 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 420 x 420 x 480 mm | 118 x 66 x 190 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 80 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 22 kg | 4.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7/10 | 6.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
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
Longer Orange 4K
+Cheapest resin printer
+WiFi at this price
+Decent 4K resolution
−Very small build plate
−4K resolution below current standard
−Less reliable long-term
−Tiny community
Who Should Buy Which?
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
Choose the Longer Orange 4K if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for resin
- 5.5" 4K mono LCD
- WiFi
- USB
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max better than the Longer Orange 4K?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max scores higher (7/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Longer Orange 4K may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Neptune 4 Max or Longer Orange 4K?
Both score 5/10 for beginners. Go with the Longer Orange 4K to save $340.
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max worth $340 more than the Longer Orange 4K?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Max scores higher overall (7/10 vs 6.4/10). The extra $340 gets you 420mm build volume at $469.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Neptune 4 Max and Longer Orange 4K?
Technology: the Elegoo Neptune 4 Max is FDM (filament) and the Longer Orange 4K is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.