Are you in the market for a new 3D printer but not sure which one to get? Two popular models that come to mind are the Prusa i3 MK3S+ Vs Ender 3 Pro. Today we’ll compare and contrast these two printers to help you make an informed decision.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- What are the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro?
- How is the Print Quality of Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro?
- How is the Ease of Use of Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro?
- How is the Price of Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro?
- How is the Upgradeability of Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro?
- Prusa i3 MK3S+ Vs Ender 3 Pro
- Which 3D Printer to Buy?
| Prusa i3 MK3s+ | Ender 3 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 19.6 x 21.6 x 15.7 inches | 17.32 x 16.54 x 18.31 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 24 pounds | 15.39 Pounds |
| Shop now at Amazon | Check price | Check price |
About the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro
The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a widely famous 3D printer developed by Prusa Research, known for its exceptional print quality, reliability, and continuous innovation. With a strong emphasis on user experience and meticulous engineering, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ has garnered a dedicated and passionate following. One of the standout features of the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is its open-source nature, allowing users to benefit from a supportive and active community that contributes to ongoing improvements.
While Prusa is on the more expensive side, the budget option Ender 3 Pro which is produced by Creality has gained immense popularity due to its affordability, reliability, and versatility. It is often considered one of the best budget-friendly options in the 3D printing market, providing an accessible entry point for beginners and enthusiasts alike. The Ender 3 Pro stands out with its sturdy frame design and robust construction, delivering consistent and reliable performance. Read also: Prusa i3 MK3S+ Vs Ender 5 S1 here.
Print Quality
When it comes to print quality, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the clear winner. Its direct drive extruder system allows for more precise filament control, resulting in smoother and more accurate prints. The MK3S+ also has a heated bed with a removable PEI print surface that helps prevent warping and adhesion issues. While the Ender 3 Pro can produce decent prints, it can’t quite match the quality of the MK3S+.
Ease of Use
The Ender 3 Pro is a simpler machine compared to the Prusa i3 MK3S+. It has a straightforward setup process, and its Bowden extruder system is easy to work with. The Ender 3 Pro also has a large online community that provides plenty of support and resources. On the other hand, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ has a steeper learning curve, and its direct drive extruder system can be more finicky. However, the MK3S+ comes with automatic bed leveling and a filament sensor, which can make the printing process smoother.
Price
The Ender 3 Pro is significantly cheaper than the Prusa i3 MK3S+. The Ender 3 Pro typically costs around $250, while the MK3S+ can cost upwards of $1,000. If you’re on a tight budget, the Ender 3 Pro is the obvious choice. However, if you have the funds and want a higher quality machine, the MK3S+ is worth the investment.
Upgradability
Both the Prusa i3 MK3S+ and the Ender 3 Pro are highly customizable and upgradable. The MK3S+ has a wide range of official and third-party upgrades available, including a multi-material upgrade, a textured powder-coated sheet, and more. The Ender 3 Pro also has a large community of modders and enthusiasts who have created a variety of upgrades, from improved extruders to silent mainboards. Check our other comparison in: AnkerMake M5 Vs Ender 3 here.
Prusa i3 MK3S+ Vs Ender 3 Pro 3D
Differences between Prusa i3 MK3S+ and Ender 3 Pro 3D Printers:
- Manufacturer:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is manufactured by Prusa Research, a well-known and reputable company with a strong focus on quality and continuous development.
- The Ender 3 Pro is manufactured by Creality, another popular brand in the 3D printing community known for producing affordable and reliable printers.
- Build Quality and Design:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ has a more robust and sturdy construction with high-quality components, resulting in a solid and durable printer.
- The Ender 3 Pro also has a decent build quality but may require some upgrades or modifications to achieve a similar level of stability.
- Print Quality and Features:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is widely praised for its exceptional print quality and precision, thanks to its advanced features like automatic bed leveling, filament sensor, and direct drive extruder.
- The Ender 3 Pro offers good print quality but may require more manual adjustments and calibration to achieve similar levels of accuracy. It has a basic bed leveling system and a Bowden extruder design.
- User Experience and Support:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ provides a more user-friendly experience, with features like automatic bed leveling and an intuitive interface. It also benefits from a highly active and supportive community, offering extensive resources and assistance.
- The Ender 3 Pro is considered more suitable for users who are willing to learn and tinker, as it may require more manual adjustments and troubleshooting. It also has a large community of users, providing support and helpful resources.
- Price:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is priced at a higher range, reflecting its premium features, build quality, and reputation. It is considered a mid to high-end printer.
- The Ender 3 Pro is more budget-friendly, making it an attractive choice for beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Upgradability:
- The Prusa i3 MK3S+ has a modular design that allows for easy upgrades and enhancements. Prusa Research continuously releases updates and improvements that can be retrofitted to older models.
- The Ender 3 Pro also has a large aftermarket support with various upgrade options available, allowing users to enhance and customize their printer as desired.
Conclusion
In the battle of Prusa i3 MK3 S+ vs Ender 3 Pro, both printers have their strengths and weaknesses. The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a high-quality machine that produces excellent prints, but it comes at a steep price. On the other hand, the Ender 3 Pro is a budget-friendly option that’s easy to use and has a large online community.