Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro vs QIDI X-Smart 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro and QIDI X-Smart 3 are both FDM 3D printers competing in the same price bracket — $259 vs $349. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat — both score 8/10 overall. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro wins in Value, while the QIDI X-Smart 3 takes Reliability. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro | QIDI X-Smart 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $259 | $349 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 225 x 225 x 265 mm | 175 x 175 x 165 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 10.5 kg | 9.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 8/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro
+Linear rails at this price
+Klipper pre-installed
+500mm/s speed
+Solid build quality
−Mixed early firmware reviews
−Community smaller than Creality/Bambu
−No WiFi
QIDI X-Smart 3
+Fully enclosed in a compact footprint
+Chamber heating for better layer adhesion
+Good software experience
+Fast CoreXY
−Small 175mm build volume
−QIDI ecosystem smaller than Bambu
−175mm limits large prints
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for speed
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Choose the QIDI X-Smart 3 if you want:
- A great printer for compact
- A great printer for enclosed
- A great printer for beginners
- Enclosed CoreXY
- Chamber heating (35C)
- Auto bed leveling
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro better than the QIDI X-Smart 3?
They tie at 8/10. The Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro suits budget and speed, while the QIDI X-Smart 3 is aimed at compact and enclosed.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro or QIDI X-Smart 3?
Both score 8/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro to save $90.
Is the QIDI X-Smart 3 worth $90 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro actually scores higher (8/10) despite costing $90 less. The QIDI X-Smart 3 only makes sense if you specifically need compact.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro and QIDI X-Smart 3?
Build volume (225x225x265mm vs 175x175x165mm) and print speed (500 vs 600 mm/s). The Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro is best for budget; the QIDI X-Smart 3 targets compact.