Elegoo officially unveiled the Neptune 3 Series, which includes three models with different print volumes, in November last year. The Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus model is the middle option. It’s ideal for users who need more print volumes than most low-cost 3D printers, but don’t require all the bells and sounds of the high-end models.
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 The Neptune 3 Plus is ready to use right out of box because it has an outstanding feature set, great performance, and a competitive price. The Neptune 3 Plus can be used to print Star Wars cosplay pieces, spaceship models or any other purpose.
Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus: Design & setup
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus FDM printer is 90% pre-assembled. There are very few assembly steps. You will need to attach the upright assembly using the included four screws.
What’s inside the box?
Printer base
Assemblement of Z and X Axioms
Magnetic base for LCD touch screen
4.3-inch LCD touchscreen
Holder for the spool
Sensor runs out of filament
Tie Rod supports
Cable for power
For assembly, tool kit
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 support tie rods located at the rear of the printer are connected to the brackets above the printer. Elegoo already marked all our connections, so this last step is easy.
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 autolevel can be used to check the 49 locations of the bed, it must be levelled manually. Once this is done, we can start our first print.
With minor modifications to accommodate the increased build volume, the Neptune 3 Plus design was largely the same as the Neptune 3 Pro. 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 on each platform ensure perfect 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 specs
Levelling: Automatic mesh leveling at 49 points
Volume Building: 320×320 x 400mm
Dimensions of a Printer: 533 x 517x638mm
Printing speed: 30-180mm/s
Nozzle Temperature: 260°C / 500F
Hot Bed Temperature 100°C / 212F
Control panel: Color touchscreen LCD LCD of 4.3 inches
Platform: Magnetic Flexible PEI Sheet
Supported filaments PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG, WOOD, etc
Net weight: 31.3 lbs / 14.8KG
The Neptune 3 Plus has all the features you need to fine-tune your printer. This includes the manual and automatic-level menus. There are also configuration options that allow you to modify settings like acceleration and jerk. The magnetic cradle connects to the LCD and allows for screen removal.
The spool holder has a top-mounted design and is well-built. We have seen other printers with flimsy plastic sleeves and are glad that Elegoo did not go that route.
Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus: Print quality & speed
The test print included with Polymaker PLA polylite PLA was the very first we made on the Neptune 3. The print showed no signs of problems and was neither too-extrusionary nor too-subjective.
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We tried a few more small prints before moving onto the bigger designs. The 3D Benchy boat (opens new tab) The 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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We used the famous Cali-Dragon model by Cults 3D for the final test print. (Opens in 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 are clear.
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After the first few test prints were successful, we decided to make a more complex model. Eastman created this Batman Gaslight V2 bust (Opens in a new tab It was printed at an 80mm/s speed with a 0.2mm layer thickness. The bust was amazing; both the armor and fabric have incredible detail. The finished 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 new tab) After the success of the Batman bust. The same settings resulted in the same results as previous prints: everything was clean and there were no issues. You could also see the amazing detail and texture of Darkseid’s arms. 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 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 position to the landing. This print made the most of the build volume as it was possible to fill the bed of parts. As with previous prints, we used the exact same slicer settings except for minor support settings adjustments.
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.
The result is stunning. It is stunning, even at a layer height of 0.2mm. 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. We have seen the Neptune 3 Plus FDM printer, and it is poised for a high ranking on our list.
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Should you purchase the Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus
The Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus has a $350 cost tag and a build volume measuring 320x320x400mm. It is one of the most popular 3D printers at this price point. 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.
Printers with comparable build volumes are available in the 220x220x250mm and 235x235x250mm price ranges. The Neptune 3 Plus offers 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 new tab) This might be the way to go. 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 new tab) It is available at $230 USD Elegoo has the printer to meet your needs no matter your budget.