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.
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.