Elegoo is a 3D printer company with the steadfast goal of making quality 3D printers at affordable prices.
They’re some of the most accessible machines out there for people who are on a budget but still want a good, high-quality printer.
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Their line of 3D printers has attracted the attention of enthusiasts and small business owners, providing excellent machines for hobbyists and even schools as great 3D printers that don’t cost too much and won’t disappoint.
Elegoo 3D printers do come in a few varieties, and we’re going to take a look at each one to help you decide which is right for you.
Whether you’re an educator looking for a good 3D printer with which to teach, or an enthusiast who wants an upgrade to their current model, this guide will show you which of Elegoo’s quality lines you should buy.
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At a Glance
Elegoo 3D printers are separated into four series, each one named after a planet.
These are the Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Neptune, and we’re going to look at each one and compare their similarities and differences so you’ll know which to go for.
The Mars and Saturn series are LCD resin 3D printers and both focus on high-resolution prints.
The Mars series is cheaper than the Saturn range of 3D printers by around $150 – $300, and so are generally better if you’re on a budget.
The Neptune series is a range of FDM printers if that’s what you prefer.
Which of these you’ll choose will largely depend on what you want from a 3D printer. Some of the models prioritize silent printing, while another comes with a dual extruder as standard.
Jupiter is the newest Elegoo 3D printer and is currently only available for pre-order.
Its features include high resolution, automatic resin handling, and a fully metal frame just to name a few.
If you want a massive and sturdy resin printer at the higher cost of $1300, and don’t mind waiting a while for its release, then you’ll want to pre-order the Jupiter.
Elegoo Mars 3D Printers
The Mars series houses the cheapest of the Elegoo 3D printers, making them ideal if you want a quality resin printer without spending more money than necessary.
They are known for their high-quality prints at a very affordable price.
If you’re brand new to the 3D printing scene, then the Mars series is a great place to start.
Each of the printers is very easy to set up and use even for first-time buyers. However, if you have larger or more professional prints in mind, then you should instead seek out the Saturn and Neptune printers instead.
Each model also comes with a 1-year warranty and quick replacement of parts if necessary.
Please note that we will be omitting the original Elegoo Mars as it is only available through clearance in EU countries and is in very limited supply.
Elegoo Mars 2 / Mars 2 Pro
- Price: $199 (Mars 2) / $259.99 (Mars 2 Pro)
- Build Volume: 129 x 80 x 150mm / 129 x 80 x 160mm
- Layer Height: 0.01 – 0.2mm
- Max Print Speed: 50mm/h
- Compatible Materials: Resin
- Connectivity: USB
- Ideal For: Beginners on a budget
Pros
Highly accurate.
Sturdy aluminum frame and ultra-adhesive bedding.
Long shelf life with replaceable parts and strong build.
Cons
Not the most powerful 3D printer on the market.
As the name suggests, the Elegoo Mars 2 was the second in the Mars series of LCD 3D printers. An upgrade to the no longer manufactured original, it boasts highly accurate detailing in its models and easy usability.
The sturdy aluminum frame and ultra-adhesive bedding make the Mars 2 a very reliable machine, lessening the probability of warping and distorting your prints.
Elegoo also ensures a longer shelf life with easily replaceable parts and a strong build.
While it’s not the most powerful 3D printer on the market, the Mars 2 is a great 3D printer if you’re on a budget or just don’t want to spend too much.
While not great for professional or hardcore enthusiasts, due to its admittedly limited capabilities and build size, the Mars 2 is easily one of the best 3D printers for under $200 you’ll find.
An upgrade to the Mars 2 is the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro, which is made from CNC machined aluminum for extra sturdiness and supports more languages for accessibility.
Its advanced heat dispersal system also makes for excellent, well-detailed prints.
While more expensive at around $250, it’s still incredibly cheap for a machine of its power.
If all of this sounds great to you but you’re still in the market for something with a little more power dedicated to accuracy and build volume, then you should instead check out the Elegoo Mars 3, which has a higher resolution screen and far more accuracy than many resin printers on the market today.
Elegoo Mars 3
- Price: $350 (Available Here)
- Build Volume: 143 x 89.6 x 175mm
- Layer Height: 0.01 – 0.2mm
- Max Print Speed: 22.5mm/hr
- Compatible Materials: Resin
- Connectivity: USB
- Ideal For: Beginners who want an upgrade to the Mars 2 line
Pros
Large build volume.
High accuracy over the Mars 2 pro.
Upgraded resin print results.
Cons
The plastic base feels a little cheap.
At the upper end of the Mars series stands the Elegoo Mars 3, an ultra 4K model that acts as an upgrade to the lesser 2K models like the Mars 2 and 2 Pro.
The Mars 3 has superior heat distribution and a larger build volume compared to its predecessors and runs silently at only 35-45db.
The major benefit over the Mars 2 comes in its remarkably high accuracy, boasting up to 50% better print detailing compared to even the Mars 2 Pro.
This is thanks to its ‘Heat Sink’ system, which further adheres the resin to the build plate in such a way that it remains as still as possible during printing while also being easy to remove once it’s cooled.
As well as upgraded print results, the Elegoo Mars 3’s better heat distribution adds to its shelf life.
Parts won’t need to be replaced or upgraded so often as no one piece will be exposed to too much or too little heat over time.
With this feature, the Elegoo Mars 3 essentially makes up for its higher price tag by ensuring it stays up and running for longer, requiring less maintenance.
This is also good news for beginners who don’t want or don’t know how to keep a close eye on the various parts to determine when it’s time to order a spare or replacement.
Read more: Anycubic Photon Mono 4K vs Elegoo Mars 3: comparison
Overall, the Mars series is powerful, impressive, and very affordable. They are great for beginners and work comfortably and reliably right out of the box.
If you’re not looking for a resin printer, you should instead check out the Elegoo Neptune FDM 3D printers. But if you are looking for a 3D printer and want something with more under the hood, then check out the Elegoo Saturn series below.
Elegoo Saturn
- Price: $500 (Available Here)
- Build Volume: 192 x 120 x 200mm / 196 x 122 x 210mm
- Layer Height: 0.01 – 0.15mm
- Max Print Speed: 40mm/hr / 70mm/hr
- Compatible Materials: Resin
- Connecitvity: USB
- Ideal For: Enthusiasts who want high resolution and good reliability
Pros
Increased reliability.
Built to be sturdy and tough.
Easily removable parts.
Cons
Test prints need improvement.
The smaller yet no less impressive Saturn line of Elegoo 3D printers are the highest quality LCD printers they offer. But they aren’t merely upgrades to the cheaper Mars line.
The Elegoo Saturn comes in two models, the 8.9’’ and the 9.1’’. The size difference refers to the monochrome display. The technical specs of both models are identical, so the decision of which to get falls to whether or not you consider the larger size worth the $20 price difference.
The UV light system employed in the Saturn lessens heat dissipation more efficiently than the Mars line, further increasing reliability.
This system is also more energy-efficient, making the Saturn a great choice if being green is a strong priority in your life.
Like many of Elegoo’s 3D printers, the Saturn is built to be sturdy and tough but with easily removable parts for quick inspections and repairs.
This low-maintenance design makes it great for beginners who want to start with a resin printer a little more powerful than the Mars series offers.
The 9.1’’ naturally has a slightly larger build volume than the 8.9’’, seen in the specs above, making it the better choice if you have larger prints in mind.
All-in-all, the Saturn line is perfect if you’ve got the money to spend and the dreams to realize.
Another reason to opt for the 9.1’’ is its faster maximum printing speed of 70mm/h, which dwarfs the 8.9’’ model’s 40mm/h.
In summary, both models are well worth looking at If you’re in the market for a large, high-quality resin 3D printer, but the 9.1’’ is the better option in terms of build size and printing speed.
Personally, I would go for the 9.1’’, as what it has over the 8.9’’ is well worth the negligible price difference. If a large, impressive resin 3D printer at what’s frankly a steal of a price is what you’re after, then look no further than the Saturn.
If money is a concern, then an Elegoo 3D printer from the Mars line is the better bet.
While not as powerful as the Saturn line, they are strong, reliable, and very affordable machines. If affordability is an issue and you don’t want a resin printer, then the Neptune series has just what you’re looking for.
Elegoo Jupiter
- Price: $1,300 (Available here)
- Build Volume: 277 x 156 x 300mm
- Layer Height: 0.01 – 0.2mm
- Max Print Speed: 70mm/hr
- Compatible Materials: Resin
- Connectivity: USB
- Ideal For: If you want a big printer that doesn’t sacrifice speed for size
Pros
The biggest and most powerful LCD printer Elegoo has ever released.
Large build volume.
Simple set-up and low maintenance.
Cons
Some may find it too expensive.
The Elegoo Jupiter promises to be the biggest and most powerful LCD printer Elegoo has ever released.
While it is significantly more costly than any other Elegoo 3D printer, rest assured it will be well worth it.
Don’t let the large volume and incredible detail capabilities of the Elegoo Jupiter lead you to believe it’s a slow machine. At 70mm/hr, it matches the Elegoo Saturn 9.1’’, which is great news for those of you who want a 3D printer that’s both big and fast.
The all-metal body makes for a sturdy and reliable machine, while the automatic resin feeding makes for an extremely easy printing process.
Even newcomers to 3D printing shouldn’t be intimidated by the giant that is the Elegoo Jupiter, as it promises a simple set-up, low-maintenance processes, and a simple UI on its 5’’ capacitive touchscreen interface.
The Jupiter is also built with easy upgradability in mind.
An optional built-in air purifier ensures that even the biggest of projects won’t keep resin odors and vapors hanging around your workspace, for example.
If you don’t mind the $1300 price tag or the wait, then the Jupiter is worth pre-ordering now so you can have your model shipped to you as early as August 2022.
That being said, the Elegoo Jupiter is something of a monolithic 3D printer.
If you’re anxious about spending that much or simply don’t need something so top-of-the-line, then you’re better looking at one of the Saturn or Mars models.
Elegoo Neptune Series
The Neptune series is the only line of FDM Elegoo 3D printers. Like the Mars line, they were designed to be high-quality 3D printers at very affordable prices.
Each one arrives semi-assembled, so if this is your first FDM printer then you won’t be left scratching your head while surrounded by parts in your first rodeo!
Which of the Neptune line you go for will come down to your main priority in a 3D printer.
Each one has specific additions that will determine your choice. Here we’ll look at what specialties each one offers along with finer details to help you get the best FDM printer for you.
Please be advised that some of these models are sold out, some of which were out of stock within 3 minutes of release.
While there’s no official news from Elegoo suggesting when more models will be released, it’s worth keeping these overviews in mind while checking in on their official site.
Elegoo Neptune 2
- Price: $180 (Available Here)
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
- Max Print Speed: 180mm/s
- Compatible Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, Wood, Nylon, and Ceramic
- Connectivity: TF Card and Wi-Fi
- Specialty: Silent Motherboard
Pros
Very quiet printing.
Highly precise machine.
Budget-friendly.
Cons
The user interface is a bit clunky.
If you work late at night or have particularly thin walls like me, then you’ll know the wince of doing something loud and knowing you’re annoying your neighbors.
There are many great quiet 3D printers out there, and silence is a virtue whether you’re trying to not annoy people around you, or simply enjoy peace and quiet.
While there’s no such thing as a completely silent FDM printer, this is an excellent starting point.
You can even use the link above to help you understand how to further reduce noise coming from any 3D printer.
Spec-wise, the Neptune 2 is a highly precise machine.
The detail quality of the prints is comparable to a lot of mid-range resin printers, which is incredibly impressive for an FDM printer under $200. If you’re on a budget but want an FDM printer that rivals many models three times the price, the Neptune 2 is for you.
The Elegoo Neptune 2D
- Price: $239 (Available Here)
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm
- Max Print Speed: 180mm/s
- Compatible Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, Wood, Nylon, and Ceramic
- Connectivity: TF Card and USB
- Specialty: Independent Dual Extruder
Pros
Dual extruder included.
Massive print size for the price.
Cons
If you don’t want the dual extruder, then stick with the Neptune 2.
Dual extrusion is a luxury in 3D printers for which many people would happily pay an arm and a leg.
Upgrading a 3D printer to have a dual extruder can be a tricky process, and finding an FDM printer with dual extrusion as standard can get very costly.
The Elegoo Neptune 2D has a dual extruder, allowing for multicolor prints and even different filament kinds to be used in the same project.
The second extruder also acts independently, meaning you can make mirrored or cloned prints simultaneously without needing to wait for two separate projects.
An FDM printer with a dual extruder is a steal at $239, and the massive print size of 220 x 220 x 250mm means you’ll have no trouble taking on the biggest and most colorful projects.
If dual extrusion is your main priority with build volume as a close second, then the Elegoo Neptune 2D is absolutely the 3D printer for you.
The Elegoo Neptune 2S and Neptune X
- Price: $250 (Neptune 2S) / $285 (Neptune X)
- Build Volume: 220 x 220 x 250mm / 220 x 220 x 300mm
- Max Print Speed: 180mm/s
- Compatible Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, Wood, Nylon, and Ceramic
- Connectivity: TF Card and USB
- Specialty: All-Round Great FDM 3D Printers
Pros
Comes with great safety features.
Large build volume.
Easy to assemble.
Cons
The screen is placed awkwardly.
The last two of the Elegoo Neptune series are the Neptune 2S and Neptune X.
Both of which are fantastic FDM 3D printers for users of any level who want a simple no-fuss FDM printer without all the bells and whistles.
The two are similar in both capabilities and design, and both come with safety features like controlled cooldowns and progress-saving in the event of a power outage.
The most noticeable differences are the Neptune X’s larger build volume and sturdier CNC machined frame, coming at a $35 price difference.
So, like the Mars 2 vs. the Mars 2 Pro, which 3D printer you chose between these two comes down to whether or not you believe this extra cost is worth it.
If you’re in a hurry, then you will have to opt for the 2S, as the X is currently out of stock.
Our Verdict
Each Elegoo 3D printer is impressive, powerful, accessible, and affordable. Beginners should have no trouble with any Elegoo model, and those of you with experience will appreciate the impressive specs at a low cost.
If you still need some help deciding, then here’s our final verdict.
Best Elegoo 3D Printers for Budget Buyers
All Elegoo 3D printers are very cheap, especially given what they can do. But if you’re truly on a budget but still want a 3D printer that won’t let you down, then any of the models from the Mars series will be perfect for you.
The Neptune FDM line is equally ideal if you don’t want a resin printer, especially if you want to print easily in multiple colors or in relative peace.
Best Elegoo 3D Printers for Experienced Users
If you’re no stranger to 3D printing and don’t mind spending a little more, either of the Elegoo Saturn models will be right up your street.
They cost a little extra, but the bigger build volumes and upgraded specs are sure to meet your needs.
Best Elegoo 3D Printers for Hardcore Enthusiasts
If you have big projects in mind and money to burn, then your best bet is definitely pre-ordering the Elegoo Jupiter. Its massive size, power, and easy upgradability will make it worth the wait and expense.
If you don’t want to wait or simply still don’t want to spend too much, I fully recommend my personal favorite; the Elegoo Saturn 9.1’’.
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