Mid-cycle — watch for announcements before buying
🔧 Upgrade kit available — from MK4, MK3.5
Best for: Makers who value open-source hardware, community support, long-term repairability, and battle-tested reliability over raw speed or multicolor features.
Full details →Late in cycle — a new model is likely coming soon
Best for: Budget-conscious makers who want a capable CoreXY with Klipper firmware for customization — without Bambu's closed ecosystem or Prusa's premium pricing.
Full details →| Prusa Research MK4S | Elegoo Neptune 4 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Tier | Prosumer | Prosumer |
| Motion | BedSlinger | CoreXY |
| Build Volume | 250 × 210 × 220 mm | 225 × 225 × 265 mm |
| Max Speed | 500 mm/s | 500 mm/s |
| Multicolor | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Enclosure | ❌ | ❌ |
| Auto Calibration | ✅ | ✅ |
| Open Source | ✅ | ❌ |
| Upgrade Kit | 🔧 From MK4, MK3.5 | — |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, PA, PC | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU |
| Released | Mar 20, 2024 | Jul 15, 2023 |
| Cycle length | ~730 days | ~450 days |
| Cycle advice | Caution | Wait |
| Deals advice | Caution | Buy |
| Next model | Prusa MK5 (Expected 2027) | Neptune 5 Pro (Expected mid-2026) |
MK4 and MK3.5 owners can upgrade to MK4S specs without purchasing a whole new printer. This is Prusa's commitment to owners and is unique in the industry at this level.
Firmware, PCB schematics, hardware designs, and slicing profiles are all published under open licenses. You own the printer completely.
Prusa's forum, knowledge base, and repair guides are unmatched. Parts are stocked and available for years after purchase.
The Neptune 4 Pro ships with Klipper pre-installed — enabling advanced input shaping, pressure advance, and configuration flexibility without modding.
Competitive CoreXY speed at a price significantly below Bambu and Prusa alternatives.
Full automatic bed leveling reduces setup time and calibration friction.