Review: Elegoo Neptune 3 Plus 3D Printer – Bigger and Better

3D printing technology has come a long way in recent years, and the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS 3D printer is a testament to that. This reliable and user-friendly machine is perfect for both beginners and experienced users looking to create high-quality prints at an affordable price. In this article, we’ll delve into the features and capabilities of the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS to help you determine if it’s the right 3D printer for you.

The Neptune 3 PLUS from Elegoo is not just the bigger version of the Neptune 3, it includes a few more specs that make it one of the top large format 3D printers. The most vital features of the Neptune 3 PLUS are the bigger print volume of 320 x 320 x 400mm, the mechanic leveling, the PEI print bed and the direct drive extruder. This gives amazing print bed adhesion for most filaments and can also process flexible filaments without any issues.

The printer is equipped with a filament run-out sensor, which will automatically pause the print if the filament runs out, saving time and preventing waste. Like the other models of the Neptune 3, this one is also equipped with a resume printing function, so if there is a power outage or some other interruptions during a print, the printer will pick up where it left off once power is restored.

Elegoo has put a lot of thought into the durability of the Neptune 3 PLUS, starting with the construction of the printer’s frame from high-quality aluminum alloy to the additional supports (for this model) on each side to keep it very secure and upright. This will ensure the 3D printers long-lasting stability for years to come.

Although this is one of the bigger 3D printers by Elegoo, it is made so efficient. It has a sleek and compact design, which makes it easy to integrate into any workspace. In terms of connectivity, the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS offers a range of options, including WiFi, USB, and an SD card slot. This allows users to easily transfer print files to the printer and monitor the progress of their prints from their computer or mobile device.

Specs and Features

Bigger Print Volume

The bigger-than-average print volume of 320x320x400mm / 12.59 x 12.59 x 15.74 inches provides you sufficient area to freely arrange your prints, larger printer models, or carry out batch printing with top efficiency.

Dual-Gear Direct Extruder

The latest dual-gear direct extruder keeps an excellent grip on the filament and has a powerful pushing force for perfect feeding and stabilizing your prints. This amazingly decreases the risk of nozzle blockage and under extrusion. The Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS is compatible with a wide range of filament types, including PLA, PETG, ABS, and even flexible filaments like TPU. This allows users to experiment with different materials and find the one that works best for their projects.

Automatic Print Bed Leveling

Since the print bed of the the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS is quite bigger, the sensor levels the print bed at 49 points. They have adopted the non-contact, high precision sensor to get the deviation at 49 (7×7) points of the hotbed, and then you’ll have to mechanically adjust the Z-axis height to compensate for any unevenness and irregularities of the printing bed. You’ll use the hand-twisting knobs underneath the hotbed to fine-tune each section. The software on the machine walks you through it, so it’s easy to understand.

Removable Capacitive Touchscreen

The 4.3 inch removable capacitive touch display can be run by fixed on the base or hand-held.

Z-Axis Dual Lead Screw

The dual-motor-drive and dual synchronized lead screws make the Z-axis movement more perfect and stable, reject printing deviation driven by a one Z-axis lead screw motor, and give better printing stability and accuracy. With STM 32-bit motherboard, the X/Y/Z/E axes are all driven by silent drivers to successfully decrease the printing noise to below 50dB.

Advantages

Slicer

The Neptune 3 Plus easily works with the Cura software and Elegoo has created a modified version called Elegoo Cura. There was no specific profile on the software for the Neptune 3 Plus when it was released, however the software is easy to setup. Create a new profile and add in the dimensions of the Neptune 3 Plus and that is about it. You’ll be ready to start printing on this huge print bed.

While the default settings are a good start, they are generally not optimal for the filament you are using. There are a few settings that you should calibrate to obtain the best results from the Neptune 3 Plus. These contain the print retraction, temperature of both the nozzle and print bed, the flow rate and the fan speed.

PEI Magnetic Platform Print Bed

The BIG PEI magnetic platform of the Neptune 3 Plus has a unique coating for adhesion and anti warping. It is flexible and can be removed easily, since it is held on magnetically. This means you can quickly remove the 3D printed object from the PEI print bed by bending it (very little) and the parts come off without issues. It is the best add-on feature for less damage to the print bed, compared to past 3D printing surfaces that needed to be scraped.

Many new 3D printers have a PEI print bed now, but this is the largest I’ve worked with so far. The PEI print bed gives great adhesion to the surface for most filaments. The rough top of the magnet gives sufficient grip and keeps the printed part down. I have noticed the need to bring the heat bed up about 5 degrees hotter. So as an example, PLA defaults at 60º so I’ve been making it 65º which has helped to keep the base warm enough to hold the prints down for the duration of the printing process.

Filament Sensor

In order to keep the weight of the print head low, the filament sensor is placed free-swinging under the filament holder. It is mounted in such a way that it can adapt to the actions of the filament.

The filament sensor notices whether the filament is broken or used up. As soon as there is no filament left in the sensor, printing is stopped immediately. This is mainly helpful when printing bigger objects and you are uncertain if there is sufficient filament left on the spool. You can just begin printing and, if necessary, replace the filament during the mechanical pause.

Pros

• The 3D printer is easy to set up
• Compatible with a range of materials
• You can achieve high standard print quality
• It has the glass carbide build plate
• Comes with titan extruder
• Sufficient area for printing
• Includes necessary accessories to complete the setup and begin 3D printing

Cons

• Not assembled

The Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS has amazing improvements over its younger sibling, the Neptune 2, and with a really remarkable price of $350. This 3D printer is a highly advised option for someone looking to get started in affordable 3D printing that has a bigger print platform than others. It is simple to start-up and get printing.

The inclusion of a self-leveling system, PEI magnetic base, its extrusion system in addition to its filament sensor and energy failure recovery make it one of the most prepared options in its range.

Conclusion

Overall, the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS is a reliable and user-friendly 3D printer that is perfect for both beginners and experienced users. Its high-precision printing capability, user-friendly software, and range of connectivity options make it a versatile and convenient choice. If you’re in the market for a 3D printer, be sure to check out the Elegoo Neptune 3 PLUS at the Official Website HERE or you can check on Amazon.