The Prusa 3D printer has long been a benchmark for quality and reliability in the desktop FDM printing world. For years, the MK3S+ has been the go-to choice for hobbyists and professionals alike, praised for its robust design and consistent performance. Now, Prusa Research has introduced its successor, the MK4, promising significant advancements and an even smoother printing experience.
For those invested in the Prusa ecosystem or looking to enter it, the question inevitably arises: how does the new Prusa MK4 stack up against its proven predecessor, the MK3S+? This comparison dives deep into the key differences, highlighting the innovations and improvements that set the MK4 apart, and whether upgrading is a justifiable leap.
We’ll explore everything from speed and print quality to new features and usability, helping you decide which Prusa printer best suits your needs and budget.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | prusa mk4 | mk3 |
|---|---|---|
| Print Technology | FDM | FDM |
| Build Volume (XYZ) | 250 x 210 x 220 mm | 250 x 210 x 210 mm |
| Layer Resolution | 0.05 – 0.3 mm | 0.05 – 0.3 mm |
| Nozzle Diameter | 0.4 mm (Swappable) | 0.4 mm (Swappable) |
| Max Nozzle Temperature | 300 °C | 260 °C |
| Filament Compatibility | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, PC, Nylon, Flex… | PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, Flex… |
| CoreXY Motion System | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Bed Leveling | Yes (Load Cell) | Yes (IR Sensor + Strain Gauge) |
| Input Shaping | Yes | No |
| Pressure Advance | Yes | No |
| Silent Stepper Drivers | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB | USB, SD Card |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Print Speed
- Prusa Mk4: Significantly faster due to input shaping and pressure advance, allowing for higher infill and perimeter speeds without sacrificing quality. Can reach up to 250 mm/s.
- Mk3: Good print speeds for its generation, but noticeably slower than the Mk4. Its maximum speed is around 200 mm/s, and quality degrades rapidly at higher settings.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Input Shaping & Pressure Advance
- Prusa Mk4: Built-in input shaping and pressure advance are game-changers, virtually eliminating ghosting and ringing artifacts for cleaner prints at higher speeds.
- Mk3: Lacks these advanced motion control features, making it more susceptible to vibrations and ringing, especially during rapid movements.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Nextruder
- Prusa Mk4: Features a completely redesigned Nextruder with a lighter hotend, improved filament path, and a new planetary gearbox for smoother and more consistent extrusion. Offers better thermal performance and filament handling.
- Mk3: Uses the well-established Einsy Rambo extruder, which is reliable but heavier and less refined than the Nextruder. May experience more heat creep and filament grinding issues with certain materials.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Automatic Mesh Bed Leveling
- Prusa Mk4: Features an improved automatic mesh bed leveling system that is faster and more accurate, ensuring better first-layer adhesion across the entire build plate.
- Mk3: Has a robust automatic bed leveling system that was revolutionary for its time, but it is slower and can be less consistent than the Mk4’s updated version.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Connectivity & User Interface
- Prusa Mk4: Boasts a new 32-bit motherboard and a redesigned LCD screen with an intuitive graphical user interface. Offers improved network connectivity options and a more modern user experience.
- Mk3: Uses an older 8-bit motherboard and a simpler LCD display. While functional, the interface is less visually appealing and lacks some of the advanced connectivity features.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Build Volume
- Prusa Mk4: Maintains the same generous build volume as the Mk3, offering a 250 x 210 x 210 mm (9.8 x 8.3 x 8.3 in) print area, which is ample for most hobbyist and professional projects.
- Mk3: Also features a 250 x 210 x 210 mm (9.8 x 8.3 x 8.3 in) build volume, providing plenty of space for larger prints and multi-part assemblies.
- Winner: Equal
Assembly & Upgradability
- Prusa Mk4: Designed for easier assembly and a more streamlined user experience, with fewer parts and clearer instructions. Also built with future upgrades in mind.
- Mk3: Known for its somewhat involved assembly process, which can be time-consuming. However, it’s also highly upgradable with a vast ecosystem of aftermarket parts.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Noise Levels
- Prusa Mk4: Significantly quieter operation due to its advanced stepper drivers and improved motion system, making it much more pleasant to have running in a home or office environment.
- Mk3: Noticeably louder than the Mk4, with audible stepper motor noise and fan operation.
- Winner: prusa mk4
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Speed | prusa mk4 |
| Print Quality | Tie |
| Material Versatility | prusa mk4 |
| Ease of Use | Tie |
| Connectivity | prusa mk4 |
| Innovation | prusa mk4 |
| Value | mk3 |
What They Have in Common
- Build Quality: Both printers are renowned for their robust construction and high-quality components, contributing to their reliability and longevity. They are designed for demanding use and consistent performance.
- Ease of Use: Prusa printers are celebrated for their user-friendly interfaces and straightforward assembly (for the kit versions). Both models offer a smooth printing experience, even for less experienced users.
- Open-Source Philosophy: Both the MK4 and MK3 are built upon Prusa Research’s commitment to open-source hardware and software. This fosters a strong community and allows for extensive customization and modification.
- Excellent Print Quality: Out of the box, both printers are capable of producing exceptionally detailed and accurate prints. They are a benchmark for FDM printing quality in their respective classes.
- Extensive Material Support: While the MK4 expands on this slightly, both machines can handle a wide variety of filament types, allowing users to explore different material properties for diverse applications.
Prusa Mk4 vs Mk3 Buying Guide
Performance and Speed
The Prusa Mk4 offers a significant leap in printing speed compared to the Mk3. Its improved motion system and firmware allow for faster travel moves and higher infill speeds without compromising print quality. For users who prioritize rapid prototyping or need to churn out multiple prints quickly, the Mk4 is the clear choice. The Mk3, while still capable, will take considerably longer for comparable prints. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Print Quality and Features
Both printers are renowned for their exceptional print quality, but the Mk4 refines this further. Features like the Input Shaper and Pressure Advance technologies on the Mk4 contribute to smoother curves, reduced ringing artifacts, and improved overall surface finish. The Mk4 also boasts a more robust and quieter operation. While the Mk3 produces excellent prints, the Mk4 offers subtle but noticeable improvements in detail and consistency.
Ease of Use and Setup
Prusa has consistently excelled in user-friendliness, and the Mk4 continues this tradition. The automated features, such as the Load/Unload filament system and the improved bed leveling, make the setup and operation of the Mk4 more streamlined. While the Mk3 is not difficult to use, the Mk4’s enhancements reduce potential user error and make the printer more accessible for beginners. Calibration and first-layer consistency are notably easier on the Mk4.
Cost and Value
The Prusa Mk4 represents a higher initial investment than the Mk3. However, considering the advancements in speed, print quality, and user experience, the Mk4 offers superior value for those seeking the latest in FDM printing technology. The Mk3 remains a fantastic value proposition for budget-conscious users or those who don’t require the absolute fastest print times or the very latest features. The long-term reliability of both is a strong selling point. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy prusa mk4 If…
- You demand the absolute fastest print speeds without compromising quality, thanks to Input Shaping and Pressure Advance.
- You frequently print with advanced or high-temperature materials and need the higher nozzle temperature capability.
- You want the most advanced features and the latest technology Prusa has to offer for a cutting-edge printing experience.
- You value the added convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring and file transfer.
Buy mk3 If…
- You are looking for a highly reliable and proven 3D printer with excellent print quality at a more accessible price point.
- Your printing needs are met by standard filament types and you don’t require the absolute fastest speeds or highest nozzle temperatures.
- You are comfortable with a slightly older but still exceptionally capable platform and want to leverage the vast existing community and resources.
- You prefer a more hands-on approach to tuning and calibration, or are on a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Prusa Mk4 worth the upgrade from a Mk3?
For users who frequently print and can benefit from significantly faster print times, the Mk4 is a worthwhile upgrade. The improvements in speed, print quality through features like Input Shaper, and enhanced user experience contribute to a more efficient and enjoyable printing process. If your current Mk3 meets all your needs and speed isn’t a critical factor, you might be able to hold off.
What are the main differences in print quality between the Mk4 and Mk3?
The Mk4 generally offers a slight edge in print quality due to its advanced features like Input Shaper and Pressure Advance. These technologies help to minimize artifacts like ringing and improve the smoothness of curves and details. While the Mk3 is capable of producing excellent prints, the Mk4’s refinements lead to a more polished and consistent final product, especially on complex geometries.
How much faster is the Prusa Mk4 compared to the Mk3?
The Prusa Mk4 can be significantly faster than the Mk3, often achieving print times that are 30-50% quicker, and in some cases even more. This speed increase is due to improvements in the motion system, firmware optimizations, and the implementation of features like Input Shaper, which allows for higher acceleration and jerk settings without sacrificing print quality. The Mk3 is still a capable printer, but the Mk4 is in a different speed class. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
Is the Mk4 easier to set up and operate than the Mk3?
Yes, the Prusa Mk4 is designed to be even more user-friendly than the already intuitive Mk3. It features more automated calibration routines, a refined filament loading system, and generally a more streamlined user interface. These enhancements reduce the learning curve and make it easier for both new and experienced users to achieve great prints with less fuss.
Which printer is better for beginners, the Mk3 or Mk4?
Both printers are excellent choices for beginners due to Prusa’s reputation for reliability and ease of use. However, the Mk4’s enhanced automation and user-friendly features might make the initial setup and first few prints slightly smoother. The Mk3 still offers a fantastic entry point into high-quality 3D printing at a more accessible price point.
Final Verdict
The Prusa Mk4 represents a substantial advancement over the already excellent Mk3. Its increased speed, refined print quality features like Input Shaper, and enhanced user experience make it the superior choice for those seeking the best in FDM printing technology. While the Mk3 remains a highly capable and reliable machine, the Mk4 offers a more modern, efficient, and polished printing experience that justifies its higher price for many users.
Winner: Prusa Mk4