Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus review: the total package
Elegoo officially unveiled the Neptune 3 Series, an improved version of its Neptune 2 Series, in November last year. It consists three models with different print volumes. The Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus, which is mid-sized and affordable, is ideal for those who require more print volume than most low-cost 3D printers. However it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that the top-end models offer.
On paper, the Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus has a lot going for it with a build capacity of 320 x 320 x 400 mm and a direct drive extruder – perfect for challenging-to-print materials like TPU. You can also adjust the 49-point auto-levelling system manually. This allows you to get up and running quickly while still having the ability to fine-tune your bed.
The Neptune Plus looks to be a good choice when compared to other 3D Printers within the same price range. The best 3D printers It is available straight out of the box due to its exceptional feature set, outstanding performance, and affordable pricing. The Neptune 3 Plus is a great option for printing Star Wars cosplay pieces and spaceship models.
Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus: Design & setup
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus FDM printer is 90% pre-assembled. There are very few assembly steps. First, attach the upright assembly to the base of the printer using the four screws provided.
What’s inside the box?
Printer base
Assemblement of Z and X Axioms
Magnetic base for LCD touch screen
4.3-inch LCD touchscreen
Spool holder
Filament runs out sensor
Tie Rod supports
Cable for power
Toolkit for assembly
Scraper for plastic
Side cutters
USB cable
Spare nozzles
USB reader
After the LCD screen has been connected to the printer’s front, it can be secured in the magnetic tray and then attached to the base. Attach the filament run out sensor as well as the spool holder to the top of your printer. The printer’s support tie rods are attached to the brackets at the top. Elegoo has already marked all connections so that the final step is simple.
Attach the cable clip to the hotend harness wiring harness. Make sure you leave enough space so there are no problems when the printhead reaches the far right.
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Once you are done with assembly, the printer can be turned on. Before the auto level can be used, the bed must be manually levelled. This will allow the auto level to check 49 areas and then store the mesh. We are now ready to print our first image.
The Neptune 3 Plus’s design is a continuation of the Neptune 3 Pro. A few adjustments were made to compensate for the larger build volume. There are two support tie rods at the back that help reduce wobble and a second Z-axis stepper with timing belt. This is for models measuring 400mm high. Six levelling knobs are also on the platform to ensure the right level. To support the larger bed, a second rail was added to the Y-axis. An LED light strip is attached to the top rail of the printer, which provides excellent illumination.
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Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus: Specs & features
The Neptune 3 Plus features the same direct drive configuration, 4.3-inch touchscreen, and tension adjustment knobs for the Pro and Max. You can print on both the smooth and textured sides of the PEI sheet magnetic spring steel PEI sheets. This will create a texture on the bottom of your prints. It may also require adhesion help, but it will leave a smooth, glassy finish on its bottom.
Key specifications
Levelling: Automatic mesh leveling at 49 points
Increase Volume 320×320 x 400mm
Dimensions for Printers 533 x 517x 638mm
Printing speed: 30-180mm/s
Nozzle Temperature: 260°C / 500F
Hot bed temperature: 100°C / 212F
Control panel: Color touchscreen LCD with 4.3 inch resolution
Platform: Magnetic Flexible PEI Sheet
Supported filaments PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG, WOOD, etc
Net weight: 31.3 lbs/14.2KG
The Neptune 3 Plus includes all features necessary for fine-tuning your printer. These include the manual and auto level menus, as well as configuration options to change settings such as acceleration and jerk. Magnetic cradles make it easier to load prints and change options thanks to the coiled cord.
Finally, the spoolholder is mounted on top and sturdy built. We have seen some flimsy plastic sleeves on printers in this price range before and we are glad that Elegoo did not go that route.
Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus: Print quality & speed
This was our first attempt at printing on the Neptune 3 with Polymaker PLA. The print was flawless and there were no visible problems.
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We tried a few more small prints before moving onto the bigger designs. The 3D Benchy boat (opens in a new tab First. The default profile that comes with the Elegoo Cura was used to print the benchy at an average speed of 80mm/s. It was a great job. There were no issues, even with the bridges and overhangs on the roof. We were able to eliminate ghosting from the front by tightening the belt on the X-axis.
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The famous Cali Dragon model from Cults 3D was chosen for the final test print. (Opens in a new tabThis is a great test for ghosting on both the axes and overhangs. The settings were identical and the dragon printed perfectly. There is no stringing between horns, and the backs of horns are clear.
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After our initial small test prints turned out well, we decided to create a more complicated model. Eastman created this Batman Gaslight V2 bust (opens in a new tab The print speed was 80mm/s and the layer height was 0.2mm. The bust came out amazing. Both the armor and the fabric are exquisite. The final product was flawless. The cowl’s nose is not affected by the sagging caused by the twin cooling fans.
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We printed and cut the Darkseid bust of Eastman (Opens in a new tab After the Batman bust’s success. Similar settings gave the same results as the previous prints: everything looked clean and there weren’t any problems. One could still see the incredible detail in Darkseid’s arms and fabric texture. If the layer height was lower, this could even be competitive with resin printers.
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We then decided to try something a little more intricate with a few more parts for the final print. Gambody’s Klingon Bird of Prey (opens in a new tab This is the print of the model. It is divided into several pieces and includes gears to allow the wings move from the normal to the landing position. The build volume was used well in this print as we were able to fill the bed with parts. We also used the same slicer settings, with minor adjustments for support.
The entire process of assembling the ship took about a day and half to complete. To ensure the correct fit and functionality of models such as these, accuracy in printing is vital. The only issue with the printed pieces was their support settings. These issues were quickly addressed.
It is amazing. It is stunning, even at 0.2mm height. The detail is superb, the pieces are easy to assemble, while the internal gears that move and control the wings work smoothly and without binding. The Neptune 3 Plus is one of the most impressive FDM printers that we’ve seen this year. It is expected to be among our top 3D printers.
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Should you purchase the Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus
Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus comes in at $350 and has a build volume that measures 320x320x400mm. The Neptune 3 Plus features a full feature printer, including auto levelling and direct drive. There is also an easy to use touchscreen that provides all the tools necessary to calibrate the printer and fine-tune it.
Similar printers are also available in the 220x220x250mm, 235x235x250mm and 235x235x250mm build volumes. The Neptune 3 Plus is a great value.
You don’t want this product?
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The Elegoo Neptune 3 Maxi is a bigger version of the Plus. (opens in a new tab It might be the best option. The sturdy build capacity is 420x420x500mm and the MSRP is $470. It won’t break your bank.
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Pro is a great option if size is not an issue (opens in a new tab Available for $230 USD Elegoo will have the printer that meets your needs, regardless of your budget.