Centauri Carbon 2 vs Neptune 4 Max
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
Centauri Carbon 2 and Neptune 4 Max are two fused filament fabrication (fff/fdm) in a similar class. Choose Centauri Carbon 2 if maximum colors and price matters more; choose Neptune 4 Max if work area matters more. On the category's overall technical index, Centauri Carbon 2 scores 54/100 against 40/100 for Neptune 4 Max.
| Parameter |
Centauri Carbon 2
Elegoo
F2 · Intermediate
|
Neptune 4 Max
Elegoo
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2026 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | ~349–399 € | 549 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 50 × 48 × 74.3 cm | 65.8 × 63.2 × 74 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 19.35 kg | 18.1 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 256 × 256 mm | 420 × 420 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 256 mm | 480 mm |
| Power (W) | 1100 W | — |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | 0.1 mm | 0.1 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| XY print surface (mm) | 256 mm | 420 mm |
| Maximum Z height (mm) | 256 mm | 480 mm |
| Kinematics | corexy | cartesian |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | 350 °C | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | 110 °C | 85 °C |
| Max print speed (mm/s) | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Closed chamber | True | False |
| Filament sensor | True | True |
| Auto leveling | mesh | mesh |
| Standard nozzle diameter (mm) | 0.4 mm | 0.4 mm |
| Multi-extruder | False | False |
| Native Klipper | True | True |
| Input shaper | True | True |
| Multicolor printing | True | False |
| Requires external accessory | True | False |
| Maximum colors | 4 | 1 |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | The proprietary Elegoo OS, built on Klipper architecture, manages full-auto calibration routines and AI-assisted monitoring. The machine is primarily supported by Elegoo Slicer (an Orca Slicer derivative), ensuring optimal control over material profiles and dynamic color changes. Users can also natively use Orca Slicer or export G-code from third-party alternatives like Cura. The intuitive touchscreen and Wi-Fi connectivity enable seamless remote management and direct job queuing over the local network. | The system relies on an open ecosystem thanks to the motherboard with pre-installed Klipper. Users can manage the machine both through the 4.3-inch capacitive touchscreen interface and via local network using the integrated web interface (Fluidd). Elegoo provides its own customized version of the Cura slicer, but the printer remains fully compatible with most third-party slicers such as PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer, and Simplify3D. Native support for Wi-Fi and LAN connectivity facilitates sending and monitoring G-code files without the need for physical media. |
The differences that matter
- Work area: Centauri Carbon 2 256×256 mm vs Neptune 4 Max 420×420 mm — Neptune 4 Max wins (+169%)
- Maximum Z height: Centauri Carbon 2 256 mm vs Neptune 4 Max 480 mm — Neptune 4 Max wins (+88%)
- Maximum colors: Centauri Carbon 2 4 vs Neptune 4 Max 1 — Centauri Carbon 2 wins (+300%)
- Price: Centauri Carbon 2 374 € vs Neptune 4 Max 549 € — Centauri Carbon 2 wins (+47%)
- Closed chamber: Centauri Carbon 2 yes, Neptune 4 Max no
Which one to choose
Choose Centauri Carbon 2 if…
you value maximum colors, price and closed chamber. «The maximum number of colors indicates how many distinct color zones or materials can be used in one print without manual intervention. Two colors cover most practical uses, including soluble support. Higher values are useful for complex decorative models or color-coded prototypes. Each additional color increases print time due to transition purges, so the practical benefit should be weighed against the added time cost.»
Choose Neptune 4 Max if…
you value work area and maximum z height. «The Z height determines how tall a part the machine can produce in one print. Vertical objects such as vases, load-bearing structures, or casting patterns require a high Z travel. A lower value does not affect quality but forces the user to split or reorient the model. Z height should be considered alongside the XY surface to assess total usable build volume.»
MakerSpecs is an independent atlas. We don't sell products: this comparison links to both sheets, where you'll find complete data and official links.