Prusa Research MK4S vs Qidi Tech X-Smart 3
Technical comparison · Fused filament fabrication (FFF/FDM)
MK4S and X-Smart 3 are two fused filament fabrication (fff/fdm) in a similar class. Choose MK4S if work area matters more; choose X-Smart 3 if price matters more. On the category's overall technical index, X-Smart 3 scores 48/100 against 17/100 for MK4S.
| Parameter |
MK4S
Prusa Research
F2 · Intermediate
|
X-Smart 3
Qidi Tech
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2025 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | 999 € | ~350–450 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 50 × 55 × 40 cm | 37 × 36.2 × 39.7 cm |
| Weight (kg) | — | 10.5 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 250 × 210 mm | 175 × 180 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 220 mm | 170 mm |
| Power (W) | — | 350 W |
| Voltage (V) | 230 V | — |
| Maximum speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Declared precision | — | 0.1 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Footprint X×Y (short side) (mm) | — | 175 mm |
| Build height Z (mm) | — | 170 mm |
| Kinematics | Cartesian | CoreXY |
| Max nozzle temperature (°C) | — | 300 °C |
| Max bed temperature (°C) | — | 120 °C |
| Max print speed (mm/s) | — | 500 mm/s |
| Enclosed chamber | False | True |
| Filament sensor | — | True |
| Auto bed leveling | — | Mesh |
| Standard nozzle diameter (mm) | — | 0.4 mm |
| Multi-extruder | False | False |
| Native Klipper | False | True |
| Input shaper | — | True |
| Multicolor printing | True | False |
| Multicolor requires accessory | True | False |
| Max colors | — | 1 |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | PrusaSlicer (optimized) and Prusa Connect for remote control. The machine accepts G-code from any slicer (Cura, Simplify3D) and communicates via USB, Ethernet or Wi-Fi using an open Marlin-based protocol. Compatible with OctoPrint and offline management. Does not require a Prusa account to print, unlike machines with proprietary firmware that block features without connection. | The QIDI X-Smart 3 is primarily managed via QIDI Slicer, a proprietary software based on the latest versions of PrusaSlicer, optimized to fully leverage the machine's high speeds and CoreXY structure. The interface offers both a beginner mode and an advanced mode for granular control of parameters. The printer comes with pre-installed Klipper firmware, allowing advanced users direct access to the Fluidd web interface for real-time monitoring, calibration, and macro customization. Nevertheless, compatibility is guaranteed with the most popular third-party slicing software, including Ultimaker Cura, Simplify3D, and standard PrusaSlicer, ensuring a flexible and adaptable workflow. |
The differences that matter
- Price: MK4S 999 € vs X-Smart 3 400 € — X-Smart 3 wins (+150%)
- Work area: MK4S 250×210 mm vs X-Smart 3 175×180 mm — MK4S wins (+67%)
- Enclosed chamber: X-Smart 3 yes, MK4S no
- Native Klipper: X-Smart 3 yes, MK4S no
- Multicolor printing: MK4S yes, X-Smart 3 no
Which one to choose
Choose X-Smart 3 if…
you value price, enclosed chamber and native klipper.
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.