Elegoo Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer vs Formlabs Form 4B
Technical comparison · Resin 3D printing
Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer and Form 4B are not direct competitors: very different prices (~29.9×). Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer costs less (~€184) and is the entry-level choice; Form 4B offers more capability at a higher price (~€5499). Judge them by budget, not head-to-head.
| Parameter |
Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer
Elegoo
F2 · Intermediate
|
Form 4B
Formlabs
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | ~169–199 € | 5499 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 23 × 23 × 43.35 cm | 39.8 × 36.7 × 55.4 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 5.2 kg | 18.3 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 143.43 × 89.6 mm | 200 × 125 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 150 mm | 210 mm |
| Power (W) | — | 480 W |
| Voltage (V) | — | 240 V |
| Maximum speed | — | 100 |
| Declared precision | 35 μm | 50 μm |
| Category specs | ||
| Build area XY (short side) (mm) | 89.6 mm | 125 mm |
| XY resolution (µm) | 35 µm | 50 µm |
| Light source | Mono LCD | Mono LCD |
| Print speed (mm/h) | 70 mm/h | 100 mm/h |
| Tilt / peel system | Standard FEP | — |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | The device supports the leading slicing programs on the market, including Chitubox and Voxeldance Tango, ensuring high flexibility in print file preparation. Integration with these software tools allows optimal management of resin exposure parameters, support generation, and production time optimization. Since there is no mandatory dependence on proprietary cloud platforms, users retain full local control over their workflows via USB file transfer. This feature ensures maximum project confidentiality and operational continuity even without a stable internet connection, making file management simple, secure, and immediate for any level of experience. | Print job management is handled by the proprietary PreForm software, which enables automatic model layout, optimized orientation, and guided generation of retention supports. The program integrates preconfigured and validated print profiles for all proprietary materials, reducing the need for manual calibrations by the user. Through the Dashboard cloud platform, users can remotely monitor production progress, manage print queues for multiple devices, and analyze material consumption. The software architecture requires a network connection for advanced monitoring features, but it also allows files to be transferred via local USB, Ethernet, or Wi-Fi connections, ensuring operational flexibility inside the laboratory. |
The differences that matter
- Price: Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer 184 € vs Form 4B 5499 € — Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer wins (+2889%)
- Work area: Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer 143.43×89.6 mm vs Form 4B 200×125 mm — Form 4B wins (+95%)
Which one to choose
Choose Mars 5 MSLA 3D Printer if…
you value price. It is the cheapest in its class.
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.