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ELEGOO Neptune 3
About the ELEGOO Neptune 3
The Elegoo Neptune 3 is a clone of the Creality Ender 3, like many manufacturers introduced in 2021 and 2022. It has a 220 X 220 X 280mm print volume, which makes it a bit taller than the Ender 3. It is equipped with a flexible, magnetic steel PEI bed, another upgrade. The bed can be heated up to 100°C. It uses a dual steel gear, all metal Bowden extruder with a strong flat spring which seems to handle even TPU well. Its most unusual feature is a resistance strain gauge auto leveling system which taps the nozzle against the bed at 16 points to measure the level. No external pin or sensor is needed, and there are no bed leveling knobs. The Teflon-lined hot end heats up to 260°C, permitting the printing of PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA and TPU. Another unusual feature is that the 4.3 inch touchscreen is detachable and connects to the printer by a coiled cord. A filament detector and belt tensioners add to the upgrades over the older Ender 3.
Benefits of the ELEGOO Neptune 3
Modern mainboard features - Many 3D printer features relate to the version of the mainboard and firmware, including features like resuming prints after a power failure and support for silent stepper motor drivers for quieter printing. Newer boards also include safety features like thermal runaway protection which shuts the printer down if it detects issues with overheating.
Auto bed leveling - auto bed leveling will ensure your prints have perfect first layers every time and greatly reduce issues with bed adhesion. When using an auto-leveling system, the probe allows better tolerances for slightly warped print beds by measuring and compensating for any inconsistencies. Without this feature, you'll need to adjust the bed level manually using nuts on each corner of the print bed.
Has touch screen - having a touch screen isn't a deal-maker or breaker, but it is a convenient feature that makes it easier to navigate the interface when you are printing files and configuring 3D printing settings.
Easy to assemble - This 3D printer is shipped with most of the parts pre-assembled, and you will only need to attach a few components and connect a couple cables in order to get the machine ready to print.
PEI build surface has good balance of adhesion and part removal - PEI beds are one of the more premium build surface options, and for good reason. They offer great first layer adhesion with no spraysor other treatments, and can be flexed to quickly remove parts. You'll need to clean the bed with a solvent like acetone or IPA every so often to maintain the bed's adhesion.
Sub-200 Price tag - This printer is one of the most affordable on the market, and sells for under $200. While this low price means you won't be getting the most premium features, you can still get a lot out of these machines if you are willing to put up with some missing quality of life features, and get your hands dirty with more frequent repairs.
Affordable - This printer does not include a lot of frills, but offers a good experience for a low price point. While this low price means you won't be getting the most premium features, you can still get a lot out of these machines if you are willing to put up with some missing quality of life features.
Dual gear extruder - A dual gear extruder grips filament from both sides and can exert much more force on the filament before slipping. It helps with all filaments but especially with flexible, slippery TPU.
Disadvantages to consider
Dated technology - This printer has been on the market for a while, and does not include newer mainboard features such as resuming prints after a power failure and support for silent stepper motor drivers for quieter printing. Newer boards also include safety features like thermal runaway protection which shuts the printer down if it detects issues with overheating.
Where to buy the ELEGOO Neptune 3
Brand Summary: Elegoo
Elegoo, founded in 2015, aims to democratize 3D printing by offering high-quality printers at accessible prices. Their diverse range caters to a wide range of users. Beginners benefit from user-friendly features like auto-bed leveling and clear instructions, while a thriving online community offers a wealth of troubleshooting tips and shared experiences. Hobbyists and professionals appreciate the excellent value proposition – Elegoo printers deliver high-quality parts, good build features, and reliable performance without breaking the bank. Elegoo's support system goes beyond the online community. They're known for being responsive via email and social media, and users frequently praise their willingness to send replacement parts free of charge for legitimate issues. This commitment to customer satisfaction strengthens their position as a user-friendly brand. However, it's important to note that repairs primarily rely on parts sourced directly from Elegoo. While this ensures quality control, it might be a drawback for those who prefer readily available options from various vendors. Overall, Elegoo strikes a balance between affordability, user-friendliness, and reliable printing performance. Their diverse product range, strong community support, and responsive manufacturer service make them a compelling choice for anyone considering venturing into the exciting world of 3D printing.
Pros
- Modern mainboard features
- Auto bed leveling
- Has touch screen
- Easy to assemble
- PEI build surface has good balance of adhesion and part removal
- Sub-200 Price tag
- Affordable
- Dual gear extruder
Cons
- Dated technology
Printer Comparisons
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