Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus vs QIDI X-Plus 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus and QIDI X-Plus 3 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers, $299 vs $499. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat, both score 8.4/10 overall. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus wins in Value, Beginner Friendliness, while the QIDI X-Plus 3 takes Print Quality, Speed. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus | QIDI X-Plus 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $299 | $499 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 320 x 320 x 385 mm | 280 x 280 x 270 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 12.5 kg | 17 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.4/10 | 8.4/10 |
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 X-Plus 3
+60C active chamber heating is the real feature: ABS stops warping, Nylon actually sticks
+Handles PA, PC, and carbon-fiber composites without drama
+CoreXY at 600mm/s inside a heated enclosure is genuinely rare under $600
+280mm build volume is larger than most enclosed competitors at this price
−QIDI's slicer software feels like 2020: functional but not pleasant
−Community is small; problems require more DIY solving than Bambu or Creality
−Some components are proprietary, which makes upgrades harder
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 X-Plus 3 if you want:
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for abs
- A great printer for enclosed
- A great printer for speed
- Enclosed
- CoreXY
- Chamber heating (60C)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus better than the QIDI X-Plus 3?
They tie at 8.4/10. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus suits large-format and value, while the QIDI X-Plus 3 is aimed at engineering and abs.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus or QIDI X-Plus 3?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the QIDI X-Plus 3 worth $200 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus actually scores higher (8.4/10) despite costing $200 less. The QIDI X-Plus 3 only makes sense if you specifically need engineering.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus and QIDI X-Plus 3?
Build volume (320x320x385mm vs 280x280x270mm) and print speed (500 vs 600 mm/s). The Elegoo Neptune 4 Plus is best for large-format; the QIDI X-Plus 3 targets engineering.