Our Verdict
FLASHFORGE FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D Printer Wins

The AD5X offers a significantly larger build volume of 220x220x220mm compared to the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra's 153.4x77.7x164.8mm, along with a vastly higher print speed of 600mm/s for FDM parts, all at a virtually identical price. Its multi-color capability adds immense versatility for a broad range of projects. The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra is the better pick for users who prioritize extreme fine detail and smooth finishes for small models, as its 9K LCD resin printing excels in this niche.
Bottom Line: FLASHFORGE FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D Printer is the better choice. The AD5X offers a significantly larger build volume of 220x220x220mm compared to the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra's 153.
In-Depth Analysis
How they compare in practice
The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra and FLASHFORGE AD5X represent fundamentally different approaches to 3D printing, each excelling in distinct areas for nearly the same price point. The Mars 5 Ultra is a resin (MSLA) printer, renowned for its ability to produce incredibly fine details and smooth surfaces thanks to its 9K LCD screen. This makes it ideal for miniatures, jewelry, or highly intricate models where aesthetic precision is paramount. However, resin printing involves liquid photopolymer, requiring more post-processing (washing and curing) and can be messier.
Conversely, the FLASHFORGE AD5X is an FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer, which works by extruding molten plastic filament. While FDM typically doesn't match resin for microscopic detail, the AD5X compensates with a much larger build volume of 220x220x220mm, significantly more capacious than the Elegoo's 153.4x77.7x164.8mm, allowing for larger functional parts or multiple components at once. Its standout feature is the 600mm/s print speed, which is exceptionally fast for an FDM machine, enabling rapid prototyping and quicker iteration cycles. The ability to print with up to four colors simultaneously opens creative avenues simply not possible with a monochrome resin printer.
The AD5X's 300°C direct drive extruder also offers greater material flexibility, supporting a wider array of technical filaments beyond standard PLA, enabling more durable and functional prints. Both printers feature automatic leveling, simplifying setup, but the AD5X's '1-Click' system emphasizes ease of use. The Elegoo does offer an AI camera for print monitoring and WiFi cluster printing for enhanced workflow, features absent on the AD5X. Ultimately, the choice hinges on whether a user prioritizes ultra-fine detail and small-scale precision (Elegoo) or large-scale versatility, speed, and multi-color capability for functional or artistic projects (Flashforge).
Key Differences
The most significant spec differences at a glance
Max Print Speed Mm S
100% lessAdvantages
Where each product wins
FLASHFORGE
- Max Print Speed Mm S: 100% higher (0.041666666666666664 vs 600)
Which to Pick for Your Situation
Concrete scenarios with a clear recommendation
For highly detailed miniatures or jewelry prototypes
ELEGOOThe ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra's 9K LCD and resin technology provide superior resolution and surface finish for intricate small objects.
For functional prototypes or larger models requiring speed
FLASHFORGEThe FLASHFORGE AD5X offers a larger 220x220x220mm build volume and a high print speed of 600mm/s for rapid FDM production.
For multi-color artistic prints or custom designs
FLASHFORGEThe FLASHFORGE AD5X supports up to 4-color simultaneous printing, offering creative flexibility unavailable on the monochrome resin printer.
For beginners seeking ease of use and minimal setup
TieBoth printers feature automatic leveling systems, simplifying the initial calibration process for new users.
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy ELEGOO if...
ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra
The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra is the perfect choice for the detail-obsessed hobbyist, miniature painter, or small-scale model maker who prioritizes extreme precision and smooth surface finishes above all else. This buyer is likely crafting intricate tabletop gaming figures, jewelry components, dental models, or highly detailed prototypes where every micron matters. They value the 9K LCD's ability to render fine features and sharp edges that FDM printers simply cannot achieve. While they understand that resin printing involves more post-processing (washing and curing) and a slightly messier workflow, they are willing to undertake these steps for the superior output quality. The automatic leveling and AI camera offer conveniences that streamline their focused, precision-driven work, allowing them to achieve professional-grade results on smaller, high-detail projects. They don't need a large build volume or multi-color capability; their focus is on the flawless execution of intricate designs.
Buy FLASHFORGE if...
FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D
The FLASHFORGE AD5X is ideally suited for the versatile maker, engineer, or hobbyist who needs a robust workhorse for functional parts, rapid prototyping, and creative multi-color projects. This buyer values speed and efficiency, taking full advantage of the 600mm/s print speed to quickly iterate on designs or produce batches of components. Their projects often involve larger objects or require printing multiple items simultaneously, making the generous 220x220x220mm build volume a critical asset. The ability to print with up to four colors expands their creative horizons, whether for artistic models or for distinguishing different components in an assembly. With its 300°C direct drive extruder, they can confidently use a wide range of functional filaments beyond basic PLA, enabling them to create parts with specific mechanical properties for demanding applications. While they might sacrifice some of the ultra-fine detail of resin, they gain immense flexibility in material choice, project scale, and production speed, making it an excellent all-around tool for practical and innovative creations.
Spec Comparison
11 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $340 | $339 |
| Rating | 4.5(173) | 4.1(582) |
| Build Volume mm | 153.416x77.724x164.846 | 220x220x220 |
| Max Print Speed mm S | 0.04 | 600 |
| Leveling Type | Auto | Auto |
| Enclosed | Yes | — |
| Touchscreen | Yes | — |
| Printer Type | Resin (SLA/MSLA) | FDM |
| Resume Print | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Model Number | — | AD5X |
| Nozzle Temp Max C | — | 300 |
| Multi Color Support | — | Yes |
Swipe horizontally to see all columns
Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
ELEGOO Mars 5
- High print speed up to 150mm/h reduces print time.
- 9K LCD screen yields high detail and sharp model output.
- Automatic leveling simplifies initial printer setup.
- AI camera detects empty plates and model warping.
- Print volume of 6x3x6 inches limits larger objects.
- Tilt release mechanism may require more maintenance.
- Screen protection film requires periodic replacement.
FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color
- Supports up to 4-color simultaneous printing
- 600mm/s print speed for rapid production
- 300C direct drive extruder handles diverse materials
- Automated bed leveling, 1-click operation
- 220x220x220mm build volume limits large prints
- Lacks enclosed chamber for high-temp materials
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
What kind of materials can each printer use?
The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra uses UV-curing liquid resin. The FLASHFORGE AD5X uses various plastic filaments like PLA, PETG, ABS, and Nylon, thanks to its 300°C direct drive extruder.
Which printer is faster?
The FLASHFORGE AD5X is significantly faster for FDM, achieving speeds up to 600mm/s. The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra is fast for a resin printer at 150mm/h, but resin printing inherently takes longer per layer.
What is the maximum print size for each?
The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra has a build volume of 153.4x77.7x164.8mm. The FLASHFORGE AD5X offers a larger 220x220x220mm build volume.
Does either printer offer automatic leveling?
Yes, both the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra and the FLASHFORGE AD5X feature automatic leveling, making setup and consistent printing much easier.
Can I print in multiple colors?
Only the FLASHFORGE AD5X supports multi-color printing, allowing up to 4 colors simultaneously. The ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra prints in a single resin color at a time.
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