QIDI X-Smart 3 vs Voxelab Aquila X2
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The QIDI X-Smart 3 and Voxelab Aquila X2 are both FDM 3D printers competing in different tiers — $349 vs $179. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The QIDI X-Smart 3 takes the crown with 8/10 vs 6.6/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Voxelab Aquila X2 saves you $170 and wins on Value.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | QIDI X-Smart 3 | Voxelab Aquila X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $349 | $179 |
| Type | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume | 175 x 175 x 165 mm | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
| Print Speed | 600 mm/s | 180 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.05 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg | 7.8 kg |
| Overall Score | 8/10 | 6.6/10 |
Pros & Cons
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
Voxelab Aquila X2
+Very cheap
+Good first printer to learn on
+Silent operation
+Ender 3 compatible mods
−Manual bed leveling
−Slow
−Bowden extruder limits flexible materials
−Basic features only
Who Should Buy Which?
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
Choose the Voxelab Aquila X2 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for beginners
- Resume printing
- Filament runout sensor
- Glass build plate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the QIDI X-Smart 3 better than the Voxelab Aquila X2?
By the numbers, the QIDI X-Smart 3 scores higher (8/10). But "better" depends on your use case — the Voxelab Aquila X2 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, QIDI X-Smart 3 or Voxelab Aquila X2?
The QIDI X-Smart 3 is more beginner-friendly (8/10 vs 7/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the QIDI X-Smart 3 worth $170 more than the Voxelab Aquila X2?
The QIDI X-Smart 3 scores higher overall (8/10 vs 6.6/10). The extra $170 gets you fully enclosed in a compact footprint.
What's the main difference between QIDI X-Smart 3 and Voxelab Aquila X2?
Build volume (175x175x165mm vs 220x220x250mm) and print speed (600 vs 180 mm/s). The QIDI X-Smart 3 is best for compact; the Voxelab Aquila X2 targets budget.