Elegoo Neptune 4 vs QIDI X-Max 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Elegoo Neptune 4 and QIDI X-Max 3 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers — $199 vs $799. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Neptune 4 takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 8/10. It pulls ahead in Value, Beginner Friendliness. The QIDI X-Max 3 still puts up a fight in Print Quality and Speed and Reliability.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Neptune 4 | QIDI X-Max 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $199 | $799 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 225 x 225 x 265 mm | 325 x 325 x 315 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg | 25 kg |
| Overall Score | 8.2/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Neptune 4
+Klipper at $199
+500mm/s capable
+Direct drive handles TPU
+Great value vs Ender 3
−No WiFi on base model
−Smaller community than Bambu/Creality
−Firmware can need tweaking
QIDI X-Max 3
+Large enclosed build volume
+Active chamber heating
+Handles all engineering materials
+Independent Z motors
−Heavy
−Expensive
−QIDI ecosystem
−Requires dedicated space
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Elegoo Neptune 4 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for speed
- A great printer for beginners
- Klipper firmware
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Choose the QIDI X-Max 3 if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for engineering
- A great printer for professional
- Enclosed
- Large CoreXY
- Chamber heating (60C)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Elegoo Neptune 4 better than the QIDI X-Max 3?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Neptune 4 scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the QIDI X-Max 3 may be the smarter buy if you need large-prints.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Neptune 4 or QIDI X-Max 3?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the QIDI X-Max 3 worth $600 more than the Elegoo Neptune 4?
The Elegoo Neptune 4 actually scores higher (8.2/10) despite costing $600 less. The QIDI X-Max 3 only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Neptune 4 and QIDI X-Max 3?
Build volume (225x225x265mm vs 325x325x315mm) and print speed (500 vs 600 mm/s). The Elegoo Neptune 4 is best for budget; the QIDI X-Max 3 targets large-prints.