Ender 3 Neo vs V2 Neo vs Max Neo [Compared]
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Officially launched in 2018, the Ender 3 series has raised the bar for budget 3D printers and became the choice of many, from professionals to beginners.
The Ender 3 Neo series launched in early August 2022, and significantly improved the 3D printing experiences of hobbyists worldwide.
All three printers have an affordable price, open-source compatibility, and powerful performance from upgraded features like a full-metal Bowden extruder and automatic bed leveling.
The Ender 3 V2 Neo is the pick that I’d recommend for most users, with the best balance between high-end performance and excellent value for money.
However, you might prefer the Ender 3 Max Neo if you regularly print large models, or the budget Ender 3 Neo if price is your number one concern.
In this guide I’ll compare my hands-on experience with all the key differences across the Neo series, so you can pick the 3D printer that’s right for you.
Read our hands-on review: Creality Ender 3 V2 Neo review
The Ender 3 Neo Series
As the suffix “Neo” suggests, the Ender 3 Neo series is the next iteration of the original Ender 3, Ender 3, Ender 3 V2, and Ender 3 Max.
Like their predecessors, the Neo printers will carry on the simple design, open source compatibility, powerful performance, and affordable price.
There is a long-held myth about budget 3D printers that they sacrifice performance to achieve low cost, which is certainly not true for the Neo printers.
Equipped with an upgraded full-metal Bowden extruder and corrugated heat sinks for quick heat dissipation, the Ender 3 Neo series can achieve printing speed up to 120mm/s. The CR-Touch automatic bed leveling system which the older versions don’t have is introduced to all three Neo printers, enabling a worry-free leveling experience.
And if you are worried about sudden power loss, the resume print function of the Neo series will guarantee you a successful print without filament and time waste.
If you are looking for an affordable 3D printer with above-par performance, the Ender 3 V2 Neo may be an excellent option. Equipped with a PC spring steel magnetic build plate, it offers good adhesion to the model and you can remove the print with a slight bend. The unique sliced model preview function embedded in the UI system means that you can observe the exact shape of the model you are going to print.
It is also friendly to beginners. With some parts pre-installed, the assembly can be completed in only three steps – after installing the spool rack, the gantry, and the screen, you can experience your first print straightaway.
Ender 3 V2 Neo – Top Pick
With all the above useful features, the Ender 3 V2 Neo is only at a price point of $299, $20 more than the original Ender 3 V2 which is nearly half the price of a CR-Touch Auto Leveling Sensor Kit. If you are looking for a high-performance FDM printer under $300, this one can be a great choice.
Ender 3 Max Neo – Large Print Surface
For large printer lovers, the most-anticipated Ender 3 Max Neo may be a go-to option. The 300 x 300 x 320 mm build volume gives you the convenience of printing larger models or more parts in one run. Complete with dual Z-axis and motors, the Ender 3 Max Neo provides high stability and precision in 3d printing. It supports filament including PLA, ABS and PETG like the other two Neos.
With the large build volume, a filament sensor is installed to detect the sufficiency of consumables, enhancing your success rate. It also integrates a 350W high-quality built-in power supply making the printer more secure and reliable.
For this stable workhorse, it costs a reasonable $399. If purchasing at the Creality Official Store, you can get a $30 discount.
Ender 3 Neo – Budget Pick
Only need a basic version of the Neo series? The Ender 3 Neo is best for you. It has a carborundum glass build plate like the Ender 3 Max Neo, which is easy to clean. It has all the essential features a Neo printer should have, and is a premium choice for DIY enthusiasts.
It is also worth noting that at just $219, it’s one of the most affordable 3D printers around. If you are hesitant to buy your first 3D printer, this one may be right for you to try out at a minimum cost.
Ender Neo vs S1
If you prefer direct extruders that can unlock more filament possibilities and want to take your 3D printing experience to the next level, the Ender 3 S1 series (Ender 3 S1, Ender 3 S1 Pro, Ender 3 S1 Plus) may be your favorite.
Carrying Creality’s self-developed “Sprite” full-metal dual-gear direct extruder, you can experience more powerful extrusion force and more choice of filaments including TPU in your 3D printing. With dual Z-axis and printing speed up to 150mm/s, the S1 series brings you high-quality printing.
It also allows colorful add-ons including laser engraving module, water cooling system and light strip kit.
As of now, the Neo series with Bowden extruder and S1 series with direct extruder form the latest Ender 3 fleet.
If you have difficulty deciding which series to choose, just keep in mind that the main differences between the Neo and S1 series are extruder type and price.
If you prefer a budget printer with a Bowden extruder that is easy to maintain, the Neo series is the right one for you.
If you pursue high-quality printing and prefer direct extruder compatible with more flexible filaments, the S1 series is worth considering.
Both the Neo and S1 series are available at store.creality.com in the United States and at store.creality.com/de in European countries. There are various discounts for you to explore at our above official store. If you are interested in resin printers, Creality is promoting HALOT-ONE PLUS at $399 with a $60 discount. Products are also available on Amazon and other affiliated distributor stores.
On 1 September, Creality will partner with a world’s leading manufacturer to launch professional-grade fully-enclosed FDM printer Sermoon D3 at TCT Asia 2022 in Shenzhen. More information will be announced later on the Creality Official Website.
Ender 3 Neo Series Comparison
Ender 3 S1 Series Comparison
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