Published on Wed May 06 2020 19:41:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

Elegoo Neptune 3 Max: Conquer Large Prints Without Breaking the Bank

The Elegoo Neptune 3 Max has made waves in the 3D printing community as a budget-friendly option for creators who dream big – literally. With its impressive build volume and a suite of user-friendly features, it aims to bring large-scale printing to a wider audience. But does it deliver on its promises? Let’s take a closer look.

Detailed Specifications:

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s lay out the core specs of the Neptune 3 Max:

• Build Volume: 400 x 400 x 480 mm (15.75 x 15.75 x 18.9 inches)
• Printer Size: 580 x 635 x 670 mm
• Printing Technology: FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (replaceable)
• Layer Resolution: 0.05 - 0.4 mm
• Print Speed: 30-180 mm/s (recommended 60-80 mm/s)
• Travel Speed: ≤300mm/s
• Nozzle Temperature: Up to 260°C
• Heated Bed Temperature: Up to 85°C
• Supported Filaments: PLA, ABS, TPU, PETG
• Leveling: Automatic Bed Leveling (with manual adjustment)
• File Transfer: USB, SD Card
• Screen: 4.3-inch Touch Screen
• Power Supply: 500W
• Firmware: Marlin-based (Elegoo Customized)

Key Features and First Impressions:

The sheer size of the Neptune 3 Max is the first thing that grabs your attention. This printer is designed for sizable projects, offering a build volume that dwarfs many of its competitors in the price range. Beyond the size, several features stand out:

• Automatic Bed Leveling (ABL): The Neptune 3 Max uses an inductive sensor for automatic bed leveling. This significantly reduces the headaches associated with manual leveling, ensuring a good first layer which is crucial for successful prints.
• Direct Drive Extruder: The direct drive system places the extruder motor directly above the hotend. This provides better control over filament flow, particularly with flexible filaments like TPU.
• Dual Lead Screws on Z-Axis: Two lead screws on the Z-axis improve stability and precision during printing, especially for taller objects.
• Filament Runout Sensor: This sensor detects when your filament spool is empty and pauses the print, preventing wasted prints.
• Resume Printing Function: In the event of a power outage, the printer can resume the print job from where it left off.
• 4.3-inch Touch Screen: The touchscreen interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. It provides access to printer settings, print controls, and other useful information.
• Magnetic PEI Spring Steel Sheet: The textured PEI sheet offers excellent bed adhesion, making it easier to remove prints once they’ve cooled.

Getting Started: Setting Up and First Prints

Assembly is relatively straightforward. The printer comes partially assembled, and the instructions are clear. You’ll need to attach the Z-axis towers, connect some wires, and perform the initial bed leveling.

The automatic bed leveling system works well, but it’s always a good idea to double-check and fine-tune the leveling manually using the adjustment knobs if necessary. Elegoo provides clear instructions on how to do this.

For a first print, the included test print file (often a calibration cube or a small figure) is a good starting point. This allows you to verify that the printer is set up correctly and that the bed adhesion is working.

Usage Tips and Best Practices:

To get the most out of your Neptune 3 Max, consider these tips:

• Calibrate Your E-Steps: This is essential for accurate filament extrusion. There are plenty of online tutorials that guide you through this process.
• Experiment with Slicer Settings: Different filaments require different settings. Adjust your temperature, print speed, and retraction settings to optimize your prints.
• Proper Bed Adhesion: Clean the PEI sheet regularly with isopropyl alcohol to maintain good adhesion. If you’re still having trouble, consider using a glue stick or hairspray for added adhesion.
• Use Supports Wisely: For models with overhangs, supports are necessary. Experiment with different support settings in your slicer to find the best balance between support strength and ease of removal.
• Keep Your Filament Dry: Moisture can ruin your prints. Store your filament in an airtight container with desiccant packets.
• Consider a Filament Dryer: If you live in a humid environment, a filament dryer is a worthwhile investment.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your printer clean and lubricate the lead screws periodically. Check the nozzle for clogs and replace it as needed.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations:

While the Neptune 3 Max offers a lot for its price, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind:

• Noise Level: While not excessively loud, the printer is not silent. The fans can be noticeable, especially during long prints.
• Large Footprint: Due to its large build volume, the Neptune 3 Max requires a significant amount of desk space.
• Firmware Limitations: The customized Marlin firmware is functional, but it may lack some of the advanced features found on higher-end printers.
• Learning Curve: While the printer is relatively easy to use, there is still a learning curve associated with 3D printing in general.

Rating Breakdown: Elegoo Neptune 3 Max

Here’s a breakdown of the Neptune 3 Max’s performance in key areas, rated out of 10:

• Print Quality: 8/10
• Build Volume: 10/10
• Printing Speed: 7/10
• Material Compatibility: 7/10
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 9/10
• Reliability: 8/10
• Ease of Use: 8/10
• Firmware and Software: 6/10
• Connectivity Options: 6/10
• Build Quality & Durability: 7/10
• Noise Level: 6/10
• Maintenance Requirements: 7/10
• Customer Support: 7/10
• Upgradeability: 7/10
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9/10

Average Score: 7.46/10

Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Large-Scale Printing on a Budget

The Elegoo Neptune 3 Max is a compelling option for anyone looking to dive into large-format 3D printing without emptying their wallet. It boasts a massive build volume, user-friendly features like automatic bed leveling and a direct drive extruder, and generally good print quality. While it has some limitations, its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, especially considering its price point. If you’re ready to take on ambitious 3D printing projects, the Neptune 3 Max is definitely worth considering.

Written by Alex