The Creality Ender 3 Pro has a specific audience, and it’s not the hardcore 3D printing community or even the casual hobbyist who has one machine working and one always being repaired. Released in late 2018, it quickly became a favorite for beginners, offering an accessible entry into 3D printing with a modest but functional build volume. As technology marched forward, Creality responded by phasing out the Pro and introducing the Ender 3 S1 Pro in 2022, bringing better hardware and a more polished user experience.
Now, in 2024, Creality’s latest marvel, the Ender 3 V3 Plus, is pushing the boundaries for what’s possible in the sub-$500 range. With innovations like a CoreXZ motion system, blazing-fast print speeds, and enhanced material compatibility, it’s positioned as a significant upgrade. While the spires might be a little wobbly and there could be some stringing, the overall quality looks promising. But how do these two 3D printing heavyweights stack up against each other? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison that’ll make printer enthusiasts geek out.
Ender 3 V3 Plus
Released: 2024 April
Key Features: 300 × 300 × 330 mm³ | Die-cast aluminum frame | CoreXZ motion system | 20,000 mm/s² acceleration | 600 mm/s max speed | Tri-metal quick-swap nozzle (300°C) | Dual Y-axis motors | Auto calibration | Flexible PEI build plate | Wi-Fi, USB, LAN
Price Range:$359
Learning Curve for Beginners
The Ender 3 S1 Pro is not for the 3D printing nerd, who would tinker over every mechanical detail – it’s for people who just want to press print and get results. With 96% pre-assembly and just six setup steps, this machine is basically plug-and-play. The CR Touch auto-leveling and 4.3-inch touchscreen make complex tech feel like child’s play, while sneaking in some pro-level features like high-temperature printing. Beginners can achieve crisp, quality prints without needing an engineering degree, making the learning curve feel more like a gentle slope than a steep climb.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus, though user-friendly in its own right, targets a slightly more experienced audience. While it arrives pre-assembled, its advanced features—such as CoreXZ motion and tri-metal nozzles—may require additional learning to use effectively. Beginners might initially find the sheer speed and material options daunting, but once mastered, these features unlock immense potential for creative projects.
Winner: Ender 3 S1 Pro. Its simpler setup and forgiving design make it a better starting point for those new to 3D printing.
Ender 3 S1 Pro vs Ender 3 V3 Plus specification chart
| Feature | Ender 3 S1 Pro | Ender 3 V3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 270 mm | 300 x 300 x 330 mm |
| Motion System | Standard Cartesian | CoreXZ |
| Print Speed | Up to 150 mm/s | Up to 600 mm/s |
| Nozzle Type | All-metal, quick-swap | Tri-metal, quick-swap |
| Supported Filaments | PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS, Nylon (PA), Wood | PLA, TPU, PETG, ABS, PLA-CF, Nylon |
| Bed Leveling | CR Touch (Auto-Leveling) | Strain-Gauge Automated Leveling |
| Connectivity | USB/SD Card | USB, Wi-Fi, LAN, Creality Cloud |
| Display | 4.3-inch Color Touchscreen | 4.3-inch HD Touchscreen |
| Material Compatibility | Standard Filaments | Engineering and Abrasive Filaments |
| Frame Material | Aluminum Frame | Die-cast Aluminum Alloy |
| Cooling System | Single Part Cooling Fan | Dual High-RPM Cooling Fans |
| Price | ~$249 | ~$359 |
Build Volume: Compact Versus Colossal
Like the Ender 3 family, the Ender 3 S1 Pro is the same dimensions with a build volume of 220 x 220 x 270 mm. Such dimensions arealso excellent for hobbyists who tend to print smaller objects, figurines, or functional parts. Its compact frame ensures it fits neatly on a desk, with minimal space requirements.
In contrast, the Ender 3 V3 Plus really opens the playing field. At 300 x 300 x 330 mm build volume, it also suits ambitious creators. Whether you want to print life-sized objects in one piece, batch small parts, or tackle complex models requiring fewer assembly steps, the V3 Plus delivers versatility. Despite its larger print area, its space-saving design ensures it doesn’t dominate your workspace—a thoughtful touch.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its larger build volume and efficient design make it a standout choice for ambitious projects.
Print Stability for Tall Models
Stability is one of the fundamental factors required for getting prints successful when it comes to printing a tall or more complex model. With a dual Z-axis system, the Ender 3 S1 Pro keeps the gantry stable and wobble-free. Combined with its relatively compact build volume of 220 x 270 mm, the S1 Pro ensures precision and avoids issues like Z-banding in standard prints. However, its smaller build height limits its capability for towering designs or architectural projects.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus excels in this area with its enhanced support system. It features two Z-axis support rods that connect the base to the top of the gantry, creating a rigid triangular frame. This added rigidity minimizes vibrations, ensuring stability even for prints that approach its full 330 mm height. Additionally, the CoreXZ kinematics reduce the load on the print bed, which is crucial for maintaining quality during tall, high-speed prints. While ringing may occasionally appear on extreme prints, the overall results remain impressive for a printer of its class.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its robust frame and advanced motion system give it a clear edge for large-scale and tall prints.
Printing Speed: Steady Versus Spectacular
The S1 Pro offers respectable print speeds of up to 150 mm/s. While this may not break speed records, it provides reliable results, with exceptional precision and smooth layer adhesion. Its dual-gear Sprite extruder and 300°C-capable nozzle ensure high-quality prints across a wide range of materials, from PLA to more challenging filaments like TPU and ABS.
The V3 Plus redefines what’s possible in the Ender lineup with a jaw-dropping top speed of 600 mm/s. Powered by a CoreXZ motion system and dual Y-axis motors, it pairs raw speed with robust stability. The result? Prints that maintain impressive quality even when pushed to the limits. While the highest speeds may slightly compromise surface finish, the option for rapid prototyping makes the V3 Plus a game-changer.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its high-speed capabilities open doors for faster, more efficient workflows, especially for professional users.
Extruder and Nozzle
The Ender 3 S1 Pro’s all-metal Sprite extruder excels in precision, offering smooth filament feeding even with flexible materials. Its dual-gear design provides an 80N extrusion force, ensuring consistent flow. Meanwhile, the quick-swap nozzle supports high-temperature filaments, making it a versatile tool for enthusiasts.
On the other hand, the V3 Plus upgrades the game with a tri-metal quick-swap nozzle integrated with a titanium heat break. This setup not only supports higher durability and resistance to wear but also excels in heat dissipation. Coupled with a reinforced extruder system, the V3 Plus tackles abrasive filaments like nylon carbon fiber with ease, making it ideal for advanced users and professional applications.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its nozzle and extruder innovations outshine the competition, delivering greater versatility and durability.
Ease of Maintenance
Maintenance is an essential aspect of 3D printing, particularly for users who frequently switch materials or handle intensive printing schedules. The Ender 3 S1 Pro is designed with ease of use in mind. Its modular Sprite extruder simplifies filament changes, and the system is relatively easy to disassemble for routine cleaning or minor repairs. However, tasks like clearing a clogged nozzle can be tedious, as the extruder and hotend components require partial disassembly. Advanced users might find its maintenance a bit limiting for high-end filament use or extensive tinkering.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus takes maintenance convenience to another level. Its standout feature is the tri-metal quick-swap nozzle, which allows users to replace the nozzle with a single hand in seconds—a boon for those switching between abrasive and standard filaments. The extruder, enhanced with a bolster spring and ball plunger, ensures a strong grip on the filament, reducing the risk of jams. Furthermore, the robust design of the extruder and fans minimizes wear and tear, requiring fewer interventions over time.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its user-friendly maintenance features are especially valuable for professionals or frequent users.
Bed Leveling and Adhesion
The S1 Pro relies on Creality’s CR Touch system for bed leveling. It combines auto-leveling with manual adjustments, ensuring the first layer adheres perfectly—a crucial step for print quality. The PEI spring steel build plate adds convenience, making print removal a breeze.
The V3 Plus takes automation to the next level. Its strain-gauge-based system eliminates the need for manual adjustments, providing a seamless calibration process. With its flexible textured plate, prints stick securely during the process and release effortlessly once cooled.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Fully automated leveling and improved adhesion features make it a hassle-free option for both beginners and experts.
Materials and Compatibility
The Ender 3 S1 Pro impresses with its ability to handle PLA, TPU, PETG, and even high-temperature materials like ABS and PA (nylon). Its extruder and heated bed (reaching 110°C) ensure consistent performance across these filaments.
The V3 Plus builds on this foundation by introducing support for engineering-grade materials, including PLA-CF and PETG-CF. Its advanced cooling system, featuring dual fans, minimizes warping and stringing, making it suitable for professional-grade parts.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its expanded material compatibility provides greater creative freedom for demanding projects.
Build Quality and Design
The S1 Pro combines aluminum construction with a plastic shell, delivering durability and simplicity. Its compact design and built-in drawer enhance functionality, while the LED lighting aids visibility during prints.
With its die-cast aluminum frame the V3 Plus isn’t shy. The single-piece gantry design adds stability and minimizes vibrations for better print quality. Aesthetic touches, such as rounded edges and grooves, make the V3 Plus look sleek and modern.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its robust construction and thoughtful design raise the bar for 3D printer build quality.
Noise Levels and Usability in Shared Spaces
The noise a 3D printer generates is often a critical factor for users who work in shared spaces, such as home offices or community workshops. The Ender 3 S1 Pro features a 32-bit silent mainboard, which effectively minimizes the noise from its stepper motors. While this makes it a quieter option overall, the lack of an enclosure means the fan noise is still noticeable, especially during extended prints. For hobbyists or professionals who value quiet environments, it’s a capable contender, particularly if running at standard speeds.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus, on the other hand, introduces powerful features like dual cooling fans and significantly higher printing speeds of up to 600 mm/s. These advancements come with increased noise levels, especially when operating near its upper speed limits. Though its CoreXZ motion system reduces mechanical noise from the gantry, the rapid movements and enhanced cooling system can still generate audible hums and whirs.
Winner: Ender 3 S1 Pro. While both printers are relatively quiet compared to older models, the S1 Pro is less disruptive during long sessions, especially at moderate speeds.
Connectivity and Software
The S1 Pro offers traditional options like USB and SD card connectivity. While functional, it lacks advanced features for modern workflows. Its Creality Box allows for basic app-based monitoring, but the experience is limited.
The V3 Plus integrates Wi-Fi and LAN connectivity, enabling remote printing and monitoring through the Creality Cloud app. Its open-source Creality OS adds flexibility for DIY modifications, and the Creality Print software supports advanced slicing features.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its connectivity and software options provide a seamless, future-proof user experience.
Open-Source Ecosystem
Both printers benefit from Creality’s commitment to open-source innovation, but the extent of this advantage varies. The Ender 3 S1 Pro offers basic support for modifications, with its firmware and hardware compatible with community-driven projects like Klipper. However, its default Marlin firmware lacks some of the advanced functionality preferred by enthusiasts, and customization options remain relatively limited without external upgrades.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus, on the other hand, embraces the open-source ethos fully. Running on Creality OS, it not only supports advanced features like input shaping and automatic calibration but also allows users to tweak the firmware for enhanced performance. Its hardware is equally mod-friendly, accommodating DIY enhancements and third-party accessories. For enthusiasts who enjoy pushing their machines to the limit, the V3 Plus provides an excellent platform for experimentation.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its robust support for open-source firmware and hardware sets it apart as a versatile tool for tinkerers and professionals alike.
Performance and Print Quality
The S1 Pro delivers exceptional print quality out of the box, with fine details and minimal defects. It excels in sample prints like Benchys and calibration cats, showcasing consistent performance.
The V3 Plus takes print quality a step further, especially for larger and more complex projects. Its CoreXZ system minimizes Z-banding, while input shaping ensures smoother surfaces even at higher speeds. The result? Prints that rival those of flagship printers at a fraction of the cost.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its ability to handle intricate details at impressive speeds makes it a standout choice.
Real-World Uses of the Ender 3 S1 Pro and Ender 3 V3 Plus
Because the Ender 3 S1 Pro and Ender 3 V3 Plus are effective tools for different users in different contexts, they apply well to many real-world uses.
Ender 3 S1 Pro
- Educational Projects: Ideal for schools or hobbyists with their first taste of 3D printing, it’s simple to operate and trustworthy, making it suitable for applications such as models, prototypes and other functional parts without needing a steep learning curve.
- Small-Scale Production: With precise layer adhesion and compatibility with flexible materials like TPU, it’s excellent for crafting phone cases, keychains, and figurines.
- Custom Prototypes: With the capability to utilize high-temperature filaments, the S1 Pro gives users the ability to work with durable and heat-resistant materials such as ABS or nylon for functional prototypes.
Ender 3 V3 Plus
- Rapid Prototyping: It is also capable of high-speed printing, making it perfect for professionals who need frequent iterations of design prototypes without diminish quality.
- Large-Scale Models: With a spacious 300 x 300 x 330 mm build volume, it can produce large objects in a single piece, such as helmets, architectural models, or cosplay props.
- Batch Production: The CoreXZ motion system ensures stability, allowing users to print multiple small parts in one go, perfect for creating components for assembly or small business products.
- Engineering Applications: With compatibility for abrasive materials like PLA-CF and PETG-CF, it excels in producing durable parts like brackets, gears, and custom tools.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. Its versatility, speed, and material compatibility make it the top choice for more demanding, real-world projects and professional applications.
Price Comparison
The Ender 3 S1 Pro sits at around $249 with a lot of features for that price. At this price, you get all the modern comforts such as auto bed leveling, a direct-drive extruder, and high-temperature printing, making it perfect for beginners and intermediates alike.
The Ender 3 V3 Plus, with a slightly higher starting price of $359, justifies the cost with its advanced CoreXZ motion system, blazing-fast speeds, and support for engineering-grade materials. It provides professional-grade features at a price point well below most high-performance 3D printers, offering incredible value for those ready to tackle larger, faster, and more complex projects.
When factoring in long-term use, the V3 Plus may offer better cost efficiency for advanced users due to its versatility and reduced maintenance downtime. However, the S1 Pro remains a more budget-friendly option for those new to 3D printing or focused on smaller-scale projects.
Winner: Ender 3 V3 Plus. A few dollars more for better features and utility make it the better buy for most users.
Final Thoughts
The choice between Ender 3 S1 Pro and Ender 3 V3 Plus depends on your 3D printing preferences. If reliability and ease of use is what you are after, and you do not have the clothes-streamed secreting on the cotton-footprint. It provides a balance of performance and simplicity, making it a fantastic entry point into high-quality 3D printing.
The V3 Plus, however, represents a bold step forward, offering advanced features like a CoreXZ motion system, lightning-fast print speeds, and support for engineering-grade materials. It’s a printer built for those who demand versatility, large build volumes, and cutting-edge performance. While its feature set may seem daunting to novices, experienced users and professionals will find it an inspiring destination that redefines what’s feasible at this price point.
Ultimately, the Ender 3 S1 Pro is the right choice for users who want a straightforward, dependable machine. For those ready to embrace speed, innovation, and larger projects, the Ender 3 V3 Plus is undoubtedly worth the investment. I would say both printers have their merits ensuring that there is something for every 3D printing enthusiast.
The Ender 3 Pro became obsolete as Creality attempted to update its range of 3D printers. Launched in 2018, the Pro provided great value for money and performance for its time, but left out core features considered must-haves today, such as auto bed leveling, greater filament compatibility, and better connectivity. That’s where its successor, the Ender 3 S1 Pro comes in, bringing a bunch of modernizations that make this machine better suited for an even broader range of creative projects.
Additionally, the Ender 3 S1 Pro is a more beginner-friendly option thanks to its very easy setup (96% pre-assembled) and CR Touch auto-leveling system. It provides a forgiving and accessible experience for first-time users. The Ender 3 V3 Plus, while user-friendly, targets more advanced users with features like CoreXZ motion and tri-metal nozzles, which may require additional learning to use effectively.
The Ender 3 S1 Pro offers reliable speeds of up to 150 mm/s, focusing on precision and smooth layer adhesion. It excels with standard filaments like PLA and TPU. The Ender 3 V3 Plus, with speeds up to 600 mm/s, redefines rapid prototyping while maintaining impressive quality, thanks to features like input shaping and dual part-cooling fans. This makes the V3 Plus ideal for users requiring faster workflows without compromising print integrity.
Absolutely. The Ender 3 V3 Plus delivers advanced capabilities, including a larger build volume, high-speed printing, and support for engineering-grade materials like nylon carbon fiber. Its CoreXZ motion system and automated features make it a standout choice for professionals and experienced users seeking versatility and cutting-edge performance. While beginners may find its complexity daunting, seasoned makers will appreciate its innovation and efficiency.
Nikko Jenkins is a technology journalist based in the US, covering tool reviews and comparisons across North America, Europe and Asia, particularly 3D Printers. His concise, insightful articles on the latest innovations help readers worldwide make informed tech decisions. Jenkins’ expertise and engaging style have made him a respected voice in the global technology landscape.
Feel free to reach out to me at nikkojenkins@360techinsights.com.
