Ender 3 Pro vs. Ender 3 V2: 8 Key Differences and Which Is the Better Buy

Key Points

• The Ender 3 Pro and Ender 3 V2 are leading options in the 3D printer field, offering reliability, excellent build volume, and compatibility with various filaments.
• The Ender 3 V2 has a higher temperature capacity, making it ideal for more complex tasks such as PETG printing.
• The Ender 3 Pro has a sturdy design with a 40×40 aluminum extrusion for the Y-axis base, while the Ender 3 V2 features an all-metal body for increased durability.
• The Ender 3 V2 has a more advanced and intuitive user interface with a color touch screen, while the Ender 3 Pro has a basic knob navigation interface.

3D printing enthusiasts often encounter a conundrum when choosing between the Ender 3 Pro and Ender 3 V2. As leading options in the 3D printer field, they offer reliability, excellent build volume, and compatibility with various filaments. However, the quest to determine the better buy lies in their subtle contrasts. While they share a common lineage, these printers stand out uniquely, making them apt for different user needs. From silent operation to upgraded components, their attributes command attention, each highlighting their value proposition in the competitive 3D printer market.

Moving further, the Ender 3 Pro shines as a practical, entry-level 3D printer. At the same time, the Ender 3 V2 extends its lineage with upgrades such as the silent motherboard, setting the stage for a keen evaluation. While both these printers can handle similar materials, the V2 edges out the Pro with its higher temperature capacity, making it ideal for more complex tasks such as PETG printing. Undoubtedly, each of these machines adds a distinct flavor to 3D printing, presenting a compelling case to explore their fundamental differences, leading to an informed choice for the user.

We’ll carefully compare Ender 3 Pro and V2 to guide you toward your optimal choice.

Ender 3 Pro vs. Ender 3 V2: Side-by-Side Comparison

Sturdy 3D Printer

Official Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer

$219.99

• Easy to remove the printing models after cooling
• Comes with a branded power supply, protecting your printer from unexpected power surges that can heat the hotbed to 110℃ in just 5 minutes
• Can perform resume printing starting from the previously recorded extruder's position should it suffer from an unexpected power outage
• Comes partially assembled

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11/27/2023 10:11 am GMT

Ender 3 pro vs. Ender 3 v2: What’s the Difference?

Both printers share the Creality pedigree, but each boasts unique characteristics that distinguish them. To help you make an informed decision, we delve into the seven crucial differences between the Ender 3 Pro and the Ender 3 V2.

Design and Build Quality

The Ender 3 Pro asserts its prominence in 3D printing, presenting a design that expertly balances robust durability with practical functionality. Its distinguishing feature is the hefty, 40×40 aluminum extrusion for the Y-axis base. This choice of material and size gives the printer exceptional stability, reducing print errors caused by vibrations. A magnetic print bed, exclusive to the E3 Pro, provides easy print removal after completion. They also upgraded the power supply unit to a Mean Well UL-certified one, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

Conversely, the design of the Ender 3 V2 represents an advancement over its predecessor. Several aspects have been upgraded significantly. The frame is the same size but has been updated to feature a sleeker aesthetic, including an all-metal body for increased durability. Notably, the V2 model’s substitution of a carborundum glass platform for its magnetic bed enhances adhesion and provides a more accessible printing base. Additionally, this model features a hidden power supply to provide an aesthetically pleasing and safer operation experience.

Print Quality

Equipped with its sturdy build, the Ender 3 Pro delivers admirable print quality. Its improved stability significantly reduces model distortions for consistent and high-quality prints. The upgraded power supply allows superior temperature regulation, giving users access to various filaments for their projects. The innovative magnetic print beds produce prints with minimal scuffs on their bottom surfaces, creating a smooth finish.

Contrarily, the Ender 3 V2 takes print quality one step further. The carborundum glass platform ensures superior adhesion, significantly reducing instances of print warping. As a result, models have smoother finishes with fewer defects. The upgraded silent stepper motor drivers support print accuracy by reducing noise levels and improving precision. Notably, adding a rotary knob on the extruder makes filament feeding more straightforward, improving overall print quality.

User Interface

Navigating the settings of an Ender 3 Pro is easy, thanks to its user-friendly interface. It operates through a classic LCD with a rotary knob for navigating the options. While it’s not a high-resolution display, this screen provides enough clarity for users to set preferences and monitor the printing process easier. The machine also supports offline printing using a micro SD card, further simplifying user experience.

However, the Ender 3 V2 provides a more advanced and intuitive user interface. This unit boasts a vibrant color LCD with a responsive touch screen for intuitive operation and real-time previews of printing status. Further, the V2 has an embedded toolbox for easy access to tools, while you can upgrade its firmware via a micro SD card slot. These enhancements significantly affect user experience.

Bed Surface

Adorned with the C-MAG magnetic bed, the Ender 3 Pro shines. This bed effortlessly affixes to the build plate and allows for the straightforward removal of completed prints. The magnetic property eases the post-print process and enhances print adhesion during the job. In contrast, the Ender 3 V2 comes outfitted with a Carborundum glass platform. This offers excellent heat-up times and impresses with its strong adhesion properties. Further, when the print job is done, and the bed cools down, finished prints can be removed without additional tools, as the prints pop off.

In short, both printers offer unique benefits with their respective bed surfaces. The magnetic surface of the Ender 3 Pro makes removal simpler without resorting to spatulas or similar tools for removal. Conversely, the Ender 3 V2’s Carborundum glass platform reduces initial heat-up times and offers convenience when taking down completed prints. Thus, contributing to an efficient printing experience. Therefore, it’s clear that the difference in bed surfaces is not a question of superiority, but depends on user preferences and specific project needs.

Noise Levels

Ender 3 Pro operators may notice a significant noise level during operation, attributable to its basic, non-silent stepper motors. These noises may occasionally disturb a peaceful work environment. Conversely, the Ender 3 V2 enjoys substantial enhancements in this aspect. It has been equipped with a silent 32-bit motherboard and TMC2208 stepper drivers. This combination significantly reduces noise, ensuring a more comfortable and less distracting printing experience.

The Ender 3 V2 indeed champions silence. Its quiet motherboard and stepper drivers allow it to operate virtually noiselessly during operation. This provides a more comfortable working atmosphere for long print jobs. Although the Ender 3 Pro may push your noise tolerance limits, its quiet counterpart, the Ender 3 V2, offers a discreet experience that clearly illustrates their different noise levels.

Firmware and Software

The Ender 3 Pro runs Marlin 1.1.6 straight out of the box. This open-source firmware allows for upgrades and customization but requires manual coding, which may present difficulties to novice users. In contrast, the Ender 3 V2 comes equipped with Marlin 2.0, an enhanced version with an intuitive user interface. It includes a smart filament sensor and power loss recovery mode to ensure user-friendly functionality and an unparalleled printing experience.

Switching gears, while the Ender 3 Pro’s firmware may benefit those who enjoy customizing, it may intimidate those less tech-savvy. The Ender 3 V2 simplifies the process through its user-friendly interface and added features, streamlining the user experience. Therefore, the Ender 3 V2 gains an edge when considering firmware and software. This makes it appealing for those seeking a straightforward, hassle-free 3D printing experience.

Power Supply

Ender 3 Pro stands out with its innovative Mean Well power supply. Highly regarded for its reliability and safety, Mean Well is a leading name in the electronics industry. This power supply significantly decreases the risk of heating issues during extended 3D printing operations, an essential factor when dealing with 3D printing operations that last several hours or even days. Additionally, it provides stable output and fast heat-up times. Reliable power sources are necessary for 3D printing, as their quality can significantly affect your prints.

Conversely, the Ender 3 V2 employs a generic power supply. Although it does the job, its performance does not compare with Mean Well power supplies. However, the Ender 3 V2’s power supply works just fine. Users prioritizing safety and stable power output will find that the Ender 3 Pro stands out.

Price

The Ender 3 Pro is less expensive, making it an attractive choice for those on a budget. It balances affordability and performance, providing users with a high-quality 3D printer without breaking the bank. As a result, the Ender 3 Pro is often the preferred option for newcomers to 3D printing. Its price point allows a broader range of users to explore the world of 3D printing without a significant upfront investment.

On the other hand, the Ender 3 V2 is priced higher due to its upgraded features. This includes a quieter printing operation, a more aesthetic design, and a more user-friendly interface. These features contribute to the overall user experience and may justify the higher price for some users. So, while the Ender 3 V2 is more expensive, it provides enhancements that some users may find essential. Ultimately, the decision between the Ender 3 Pro and the Ender 3 V2 comes down to individual user priorities and budget constraints.

Silent Printing

Official Creality Ender 3 V2 Upgraded 3D Printer

$209.00

• Features Creality's Silent Motherboard for reduced noise when printing
• Includes a branded and certified power supply that you can trust
• Supports easier filament feeding
• Includes a 4.3 inch color screen

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11/27/2023 10:01 am GMT

Ender 3 Pro vs. Ender 3 V2: Must-Know Facts

• The Ender 3 Pro and Ender 3 V2 come from the popular Creality Ender 3 series. They share many core features, like the ability to print with various filament types, making them versatile machines for hobbyists and professionals.
• Though both printers feature a similar overall structure, the Ender 3 V2 boasts a tidier, more streamlined look. This is due to the inclusion of an integrated toolbox and hidden power supply, adding a dash of elegance to your workspace.
• If the easy setup is what you seek, lean towards the Ender 3 Pro. The clear assembly instructions make the process less time-consuming, allowing you to start printing sooner.
• Considering noise levels, the Ender 3 V2 stands out. A quieter motherboard reduces printing noise significantly, ensuring a more peaceful working environment.
• In terms of print volume, there’s no difference. Both models offer a generous space of 220 x 220 x 250 mm, making them suitable for various 3D printing projects.
• The Ender 3 V2 features a color LCD, a clear upgrade over the Ender 3 Pro’s more straightforward, monochrome screen. The color screen enhances usability, allowing for more straightforward navigation and settings adjustments.
• The Ender 3 Pro shines with its sturdy, upgraded aluminum frame. This robust build enhances print stability, improving the quality of your 3D prints.
• The Ender 3 V2 improves on cooling. It incorporates a rotary knob on the extruder, simplifying filament feed, and an improved fan duct for better cooling. These features enhance print quality and reliability.
• Both printers benefit from a vibrant online community. This network offers help with troubleshooting, sharing printing tips, and even 3D models for printing. However, as the Ender 3 Pro has been around longer, its community is more significant and resourceful.

Ender 3 Pro vs. Ender 3 V2: Which One Is Better? Which One Should You Use?

Choosing between the Ender 3 Pro and the Ender 3 V2 can be tricky. Both are reliable machines, offering good print quality at a reasonable price point. However, each printer has unique strengths that make it stand out. 

The Ender 3 Pro shines with its fantastic quality at an affordable price, which has made it one of the most popular 3D printers today. If you’re on a budget and after excellent print quality, it’s hard to beat. Transitioning to the Ender 3 V2, this machine brings several improvements to the table, with its modern design and silent operation topping the list. It also features an updated glass bed for enhanced print adhesion. If you’re seeking a more up-to-date, quieter 3D printing experience, the V2 is the right choice.

Overall, both the Ender 3 Pro and V2 are strong choices, with their selection depending on individual preferences. The Pro stands out for quality at a great price, while the V2 is the go-to for a modern, quieter printing experience. Choose the one that aligns with your needs to get the most out of your 3D printing endeavors.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©CobraCZ/Shutterstock.com.