Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus vs QIDI iBox Mono2
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus ($299, FDM) and QIDI iBox Mono2 ($229, 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 Plus takes the crown with 8.4/10 vs 6.4/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the QIDI iBox Mono2 saves you $70.
Direct answer
Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is the better pick for most buyers.
Choose Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus if you want the stronger overall score, better fit for large-format and value, and the safer recommendation. Choose QIDI iBox Mono2 only if its specific strengths matter more to you than the overall result.
Winner by buyer type
Best overall
Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Best value
QIDI iBox Mono2
Best build volume
Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus | QIDI iBox Mono2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $229 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 320 x 320 x 385 mm | 120 x 68 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 90 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 12.5 kg | 5.2 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.4/10 | 6.4/10 |
Pros & Cons
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
QIDI iBox Mono2
+Enclosed design contains resin fumes better than open printers without relying solely on a purifier
+WiFi standard, unlike some competitors at this price
+QIDI build quality is solid and consistent
+Minimal footprint fits where other resin printers won't
−4K resolution is significantly behind competitors offering 9K at the same price
−120x68mm build volume is one of the smallest in the category
−$229 for 4K when Elegoo Mars 4 gives you 7K for $149 is a tough math problem
−QIDI's resin community is small: problems stay unsolved longer
Who Should Buy Which?
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
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 Neptune 4 Plus better than the QIDI iBox Mono2?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher (8.4/10). 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 Neptune 4 Plus or QIDI iBox Mono2?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus worth $70 more than the QIDI iBox Mono2?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus scores higher overall (8.4/10 vs 6.4/10). The extra $70 gets you 320×320×385mm at $299 — the largest build volume at this price point.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus and QIDI iBox Mono2?
Technology: the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is FDM (filament) and the QIDI iBox Mono2 is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.