Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro vs Qidi Tech X-Max 3 3D Printer

Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)

In brief

Neptune 3 Pro and X-Max 3 3D Printer are not direct competitors: very different prices (~3.9×). Neptune 3 Pro costs less (~€229) and is the entry-level choice; X-Max 3 3D Printer offers more capability at a higher price (~€899). Judge them by budget, not head-to-head.

Parameter
Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro Neptune 3 Pro Elegoo F2 · Intermediate
Identity
Launch year 2022 2023
Use tier F2 — Intermediate F2 — Intermediate
Price
Price (€) ~199–259 € ~799–999 €
Universal specs
Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) 47.5 × 44.5 × 51.5 cm 55.3 × 55.3 × 60.1 cm
Weight (kg) 8.1 kg 30.2 kg
Work area (mm) 225 × 225 mm 325 × 325 mm
Z-axis height (mm) 280 mm 315 mm
Power (W) 350 W
Voltage (V) 230 V
Maximum speed 180 mm/s 600 mm/s
Declared precision 0.1 mm
Category specs
Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) 225 mm 325 mm
Build height Z (mm) 280 mm 315 mm
Kinematics Cartesian CoreXY
Max nozzle temperature (°C) 260 °C 350 °C
Max bed temperature (°C) 100 °C 120 °C
Max print speed (mm/s) 180 mm/s 600 mm/s
Enclosed chamber False True
Filament sensor True True
Auto bed leveling Mesh Mesh
Standard nozzle diameter (mm) 0.4 mm 0.4 mm
Multi-extruder False False
Native Klipper False True
Input shaper False True
Multicolor printing False False
Max colors 1 1
Ecosystem
Cloud dependency No No
Software notes The operating system is based on the open-source Marlin firmware, ensuring broad compatibility and stability for the user. The printer is supported by major slicing software on the market, such as Ultimaker Cura and PrusaSlicer, for which official preset profiles or easily configurable community profiles exist. Operational management is handled via a practical removable capacitive touchscreen, featuring a simple interface for manual control and monitoring. The machine operates entirely offline, reading G-code files via a MicroSD card or direct USB cable connection, without any dependency on cloud services or wireless networks. The system relies on an architecture based on native Klipper firmware, a configuration that guarantees advanced kinematics management and precise control of accelerations through input shaping algorithms. The local and remote user interface is managed fluidly, allowing full monitoring of print parameters without the need to depend on mandatory external cloud services. For file preparation, the machine supports the main slicing software available on the market, including Qidi Print, OrcaSlicer, and PrusaSlicer, offering optimized profiles to enhance production times and the surface quality of components. Connectivity options include wired network and Wi-Fi, facilitating the integration of the device into local networks of laboratories or digital workshops.

The differences that matter

  • Price: Neptune 3 Pro 229 € vs X-Max 3 3D Printer 899 € — Neptune 3 Pro wins (+293%)
  • Max print speed: Neptune 3 Pro 180 mm/s vs X-Max 3 3D Printer 600 mm/s — X-Max 3 3D Printer wins (+233%)
  • Work area: Neptune 3 Pro 225×225 mm vs X-Max 3 3D Printer 325×325 mm — X-Max 3 3D Printer wins (+109%)
  • Enclosed chamber: X-Max 3 3D Printer yes, Neptune 3 Pro no
  • Max nozzle temperature: Neptune 3 Pro 260 °C vs X-Max 3 3D Printer 350 °C — X-Max 3 3D Printer wins (+35%)

Which one to choose

Choose Neptune 3 Pro if…

you value price.

See the Neptune 3 Pro sheet →

Choose X-Max 3 3D Printer if…

you value max print speed, work area and enclosed chamber.

See the X-Max 3 3D Printer sheet →

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.