Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra vs QIDI X-Max 3
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
Comparing FDM to resin? The Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra ($459, RESIN) and QIDI X-Max 3 ($799, FDM) 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 QIDI X-Max 3 takes the crown with 8/10 vs 7.8/10. It pulls ahead in Speed. That said, the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra saves you $340 and wins on Print Quality.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra | QIDI X-Max 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $459 | $799 |
| Type | RESIN | FDM |
| Build Volume | 218 x 123 x 220 mm | 325 x 325 x 315 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 11 kg | 25 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra
+Larger build plate than Mars series
+12K resolution
+Print multiple minis at once
+Good for busts and terrain
−More expensive than Mars
−Still requires post-processing
−Heavy resin smell even with purifier
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 Saturn 4 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for large-prints
- 12K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
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 Saturn 4 Ultra better than the QIDI X-Max 3?
By the numbers, the QIDI X-Max 3 scores higher (8/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra may be the smarter buy if you need resin.
Which is better for beginners, Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra or QIDI X-Max 3?
Both score 6/10 for beginners. Go with the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra to save $340.
Is the QIDI X-Max 3 worth $340 more than the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra?
The QIDI X-Max 3 scores higher overall (8/10 vs 7.8/10). The extra $340 gets you large enclosed build volume.
What's the main difference between Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra and QIDI X-Max 3?
Technology: the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra is RESIN (filament) and the QIDI X-Max 3 is FDM (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.