The Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra is a compact, reliable resin printer that offers excellent value for its price point. Reviewers praised its wallet-friendly cost, improved air filters, and included Chitubox Pro slicing software. The printer features a 4k LCD screen with 0.035mm X/Y resolution and a build volume of 89.6 x 143.36 x 175mm. While some users noted icon inconsistencies in the manual and the Pro software's limited trial period, overall it's considered a great choice for home users seeking detailed prints without the high-end price tag.
Full review
Build Quality and Design
The Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra presents a compact yet robust design that balances functionality with user accessibility. According to Diymachines.co.uk, the printer's build quality feels like a step backward compared to previous models, with a plastic base that seems less premium than metal alternatives in the same price range. However, Tom's Hardware noted that the machine's construction is solid enough for reliable operation, with the printer's footprint being notably smaller than its generous build volume suggests. The device features a 3.5-inch touch screen with IPS technology, offering excellent readability and wide viewing angles, which RTINGS confirmed through their testing. The printer's aesthetic design draws comparisons to SpaceX's Dragon capsule, though some reviewers found the curved elements less appealing than the more angular designs of competitors. The build plate is sandblasted and comes with a second-generation FEP film, which significantly improves adhesion and release properties, according to the Elegoo official documentation and user reviews.
Performance and Print Quality
The Mars 3 Ultra delivers impressive print quality with its 4K monochrome LCD screen and COB light source, achieving layer times between 1.5 to 3 seconds depending on resin and settings. Diymachines.co.uk reported that the printer produces highly detailed models with layer heights ranging from 0.01 to 0.2mm, making it ideal for intricate designs where surface detail matters. Tom's Hardware measured the printer's UV wavelength at 405nm and confirmed its ability to produce fine details. The printer's resolution of 4098 x 2560 pixels translates to an X/Y resolution of 0.035mm, which the manufacturer claims is sufficient for professional-grade prints. However, some users have noted that the printer's performance can be inconsistent with certain resins, particularly when using cheaper alternatives. The inclusion of Chitubox Pro slicing software is a significant advantage, as it eliminates the need for manual software configuration, according to the manufacturer's documentation and user feedback.
What Reviewers Loved
Reviewers consistently praised the Mars 3 Ultra's user-friendly interface and ease of use. Diymachines.co.uk highlighted the printer's compact footprint and improved air filtration system as major selling points, while Tom's Hardware commended its fast per-layer cure times and native Chitubox integration. The inclusion of a 3.5-inch touch screen with intuitive navigation was particularly appreciated, with multiple reviewers noting how it simplified the printing process. The printer's ability to handle a large build volume of 89.6 x 143.36 x 175mm within a compact form factor was also a standout feature. Additionally, the pre-loaded USB disk with demo prints, user manual, and slicing software was seen as a thoughtful touch that reduces setup time for new users. The sandblasted build plate and improved FEP film were also mentioned as significant improvements over previous models, leading to more successful prints and easier post-processing.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Mars 3 Ultra has several notable drawbacks that reviewers have pointed out. The plastic base construction, while functional, was criticized by Tom's Hardware as feeling less premium than competing models. Diymachines.co.uk noted that the icons between the machine and its manual sometimes don't match, creating confusion for users. Additionally, the Chitubox Pro software only lasts for one year before requiring payment for continued use, which could be frustrating for long-term users. The printer's reliance on a USB stick for file transfer instead of Wi-Fi connectivity was also a limitation, as noted by multiple reviewers who found the lack of wireless capabilities inconvenient. Furthermore, some users have reported that the printer's performance can be inconsistent with certain resins, particularly when using cheaper alternatives, which may affect overall print quality and success rates.
Setup and Software
Setup of the Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra is remarkably straightforward, with minimal assembly required beyond removing protective foam and plastic sheets. Diymachines.co.uk reported that the printer arrived well-packed and ready to use, with all necessary accessories included in the box. The inclusion of a USB disk preloaded with demo prints, electronic user manual, and Chitubox Pro software significantly reduces initial setup time. However, Tom's Hardware noted that some Chinese-to-English translations in the manual could be confusing for new users. The printer's touch screen interface was praised for its intuitive design, though one reviewer noted that the on-screen keyboard was too small for comfortable typing. The software integration with Chitubox Pro was generally well-received, as it eliminated the need for complex software configuration, according to the manufacturer's documentation and user feedback. The printer also includes a self-diagnostic feature during boot-up, which was appreciated by reviewers for its reliability and ease of troubleshooting.
Who It's Best For
The Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra is ideal for hobbyists and makers who want high-quality resin printing without the premium price tag of professional-grade machines. It's particularly suited for users who value detailed prints and don't mind a bit of manual setup. Diymachines.co.uk recommended it for those who want to experiment with resin printing at home, while Tom's Hardware suggested it's perfect for users who appreciate fast print times and detailed results. The printer's compact size makes it suitable for small workspaces, and its user-friendly interface is ideal for beginners. However, it's not recommended for professional users who require extensive Wi-Fi capabilities or long-term software subscriptions, as the Chitubox Pro software limitations and lack of wireless connectivity could be problematic. The printer is best suited for those who primarily use standard resins and don't require advanced features like automatic resin level detection or sophisticated monitoring systems.
How It Compares to Alternatives
When compared to other resin printers in its price range, the Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra holds its own against competitors like the Anycubic Photon Mono X and Prusa SL1. Tom's Hardware noted that while the Mars 3 offers 4K resolution at a fraction of the cost of premium models, it lacks some advanced features like automatic resin level detection or Wi-Fi connectivity. Diymachines.co.uk compared it favorably to the Mars 4 Ultra, noting that while the latter offers higher resolution and additional features, the Mars 3 provides excellent value for money. The printer's performance in terms of layer times and print quality was comparable to higher-end models, though it falls short in terms of build quality and advanced software features. The inclusion of Chitubox Pro software sets it apart from many competitors, though the software's one-year limitation is a drawback compared to models that offer perpetual access to their slicing tools.
Value at This Price
The Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra offers exceptional value for its price point, particularly when considering its 4K resolution and fast print times. Diymachines.co.uk described it as a wallet-friendly option that delivers quality results, while Tom's Hardware noted that it provides excellent performance without the premium cost of professional-grade printers. The inclusion of Chitubox Pro software and all necessary accessories in the box adds to its value proposition. However, the printer's plastic construction and software limitations were seen as drawbacks that slightly reduce its overall value. The manufacturer's claim of 2.5-second per-layer cure times was confirmed by multiple reviewers, making it competitive with higher-end models in terms of speed. The printer's ability to handle a generous build volume of 89.6 x 143.36 x 175mm within a compact footprint was also praised as a significant value-add feature. Despite its limitations, the Mars 3 Ultra remains a strong contender in the budget resin printer market.
Strengths
- +Wallet friendly price considering the quality
- +Compact footprint with generous build volume of 89.6 x 143.36 x 175mm
- +Air filters seem to be improved
- +Chitubox Pro Slicing Software included
Watch-outs
- −Some mismatch in icons between machine and its manual
- −The pro Chitubox software only lasts one year
How it compares
The Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra offers the best value proposition among the group, especially when compared to the Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra which has software quirks and the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8k S which has limited slicer functionality. While it lacks the advanced features of the PioCreat HALOT-X1 16K such as automatic resin refilling, it provides a more affordable entry point without sacrificing much in terms of build volume or resolution.
Who this is for
At a glance: Budget-conscious home users seeking reliable prints.
Why you’d buy the Elegoo Mars 3 Ultra
- Wallet friendly price considering the quality.
- Compact footprint with generous build volume of 89.6 x 143.36 x 175mm.
- Air filters seem to be improved.
Why you’d skip it
- Some mismatch in icons between machine and its manual.
- The pro Chitubox software only lasts one year.
Rating sources
Our 4.3 score is the average of these published ratings. More about methodology.
