Neptune 2 review: Unleashing the potential of affordable 3D printing
The Elegoo Neptune 2 emerges as a compelling contender in the ultra-budget FDM 3D printer market. Priced well below many competitors, it promises to be a reliable entry into the 3D printing world without sacrificing core functionality. But will it work? After rigorous testing, we dissected its performance, usability, and overall value. As a manufacturer specializing in professional-grade solutions like SLA and metal SLM printing, we’ll also look at where hobbyist printers like this shine and the benefits of professional service.
First impressions and build quality
Unboxing the Neptune 2, you’ll notice that it has a minimalist yet incredibly sturdy build. The sturdy powder-coated steel frame provides commendable stability, minimizing vibration during high-speed printing. Its build volume (220 x 220 x 250mm) is in line with entry-level expectations and is large enough to accommodate toys, prototypes and household items. Assembly emphasizes user-friendliness: pre-installed components mean you can typically be printing within 30 minutes of unboxing. Key components such as the twin-gear extruder and heated bed are pre-installed, reducing novice frustration.
Core specs and settings
- Extruder: Dual gear direct drive enables reliable filament clamping
- Hot end: Standard PTFE lining, withstands 200–260°C (PLA, PETG, TPU friendly)
- bed: Removable spring steel plate with PEI plate (heated to 100°C)
- Connectivity: Micro SD card; No Wi-Fi or USB
- Leveling: Manual bed adjustment via responsive knob
Calibration depends on manually leveling the bed using the intuitive paper method. While modern competitors are increasingly favoring automatic leveling, the Neptune 2’s manual approach proves consistent once mastered. Thanks to the direct drive system, filament loading is simple, eliminating the need to manage cumbersome Bowden tubes.
Printing performance: where the value comes in
The print quality is surprising for this price point. PLA prints feature sharp edges, smooth surfaces and <0.1mm layer heights for reliable handling. Overhangs up to 60° are always successful and the bridging performance is sufficient for enthusiasts. Noise levels remain moderate, around 50 decibels during normal operation. PEI coating bed provides excellent adhesion and easy part removal.
Speed and material flexibility: Printing at speeds of 60–80mm/s produces reliable results without artifacts. PETG performs well with only minor adjustments, while flexible TPU requires slower speeds but can be printed successfully. Due to its tendency to warp, ABS requires a casing – beyond the Neptune 2’s default settings.
Restrictions and Mitigation Measures
- Electronic products: Non-silent stepper drivers mean they operate audibly – and can be replaced if retrofitted.
- Hot end ceiling: Higher temperature materials (e.g. nylon, polycarbonate) are inaccessible.
- Parts cooling: Single-sided fans struggle with complex geometries; printable upgrades exist.
- Connectivity: Relying on an SD card lacks convenience; the OctoPrint setup cheaply solves this problem.
Advantages and Disadvantages
| advantage | shortcoming |
|---|---|
| Excellent value/cost ratio | Manual bed leveling only |
| Double gear extruder clamping is reliable | Stepper motor is loud |
| Sturdy frame minimizes vibration | Lack of connectivity options |
| PEI bed ensures easy bonding | Complex materials require self-service |
Conclusion: Best for tinkerers and cautious beginners
The Elegoo Neptune 2 sticks to the basics: a sturdy frame, a smooth squeeze, and print consistency that exceeds its price point. Yes, newer printers offer automatic bed leveling or silent operation, but they often cost twice as much. This is a compelling purchase for beginners who prioritize affordability and printing basics, or makers eager to iterate on prototypes before industrial manufacturing. There are plenty of upgrades within its ecosystem, emphasizing Neptune 2 as a platform rather than a one-off technology. Where high-strength alloys or precision critical parts begin, services like ours step in – but just as a hobby
