ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer vs ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer: Spec Comparison
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The elegoo centauri carbon 3d printer vs saturn 3 msla 12k 3d printer comparison highlights two distinct manufacturing approaches from the same brand. Both machines prioritize precision and user-friendly setups for makers. The core difference lies in their technology. The Centauri Carbon uses fused filament fabrication for speed and strength. The Saturn 3 employs resin curing for extreme detail. You must choose based on whether you need rapid prototyping or intricate miniature work.
Key differences
| Aspect | ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer | ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Printing Technology | Fused Filament Fabrication | MSLA Resin |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | up to 70 mm/h |
| Build Volume | 256x256x256 mm | 218.88 x 122.88 x 250 mm |
| Motion Structure | CoreXY | not listed |
| Extruder Type | Brass-hardened steel nozzle | not listed |
| Color | Black | Red |
Which one should you choose?
Choose ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer if
- You need high-speed production of durable parts using standard filaments.
- You want to print with advanced materials like carbon fiber reinforced plastics.
- You prefer a rigid die-cast frame for stability during rapid movements.
Choose ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer if
- You require microscopic detail for small, intricate models.
- You value a high-resolution 12K mono LCD screen for smooth surfaces.
- You want to use third-party slicing software like CHITUBOX.
Verdict: The Centauri Carbon suits makers who need speed, strength, and versatility with thermoplastics. The Saturn 3 is the better choice for hobbyists focused on ultra-high-resolution resin prints. Select the model that aligns with your primary material and detail requirements.
Specs: Centauri Carbon vs Saturn 3
Printing technology
The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon is a filament-based printer using fused deposition modeling. It relies on a heated nozzle to melt thermoplastics layer by layer. In contrast, the ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer uses MSLA technology. It cures liquid resin with light to create solid objects. This fundamental difference means you choose between plastic filament versatility or resin detail. The Centauri Carbon handles standard materials like PLA and ABS. The Saturn 3 requires liquid resin and proper ventilation. Your choice depends on whether you prefer extruding plastic or curing liquid.
Print speed
Speed metrics differ significantly between these two machines. The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer boasts a maximum print speed of 500 mm/s. It also features an acceleration of 20000 mm/s², allowing for rapid movement during printing. The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer lists a print speed of up to 70 mm/h. This is a layer-based rate, not a travel speed. For rapid production of larger parts, the Centauri Carbon is faster. The Saturn 3 focuses on curing time per layer rather than head movement speed. You get high-speed motion with the filament printer and steady curing with the resin unit.
Build volume
Both printers offer substantial build areas for their respective categories. The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon provides a cubic build volume of 256x256x256 mm. This equals roughly 10x10x10 inches, suitable for medium-sized functional parts. The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer offers a volume of 218.88 × 122.88 × 250 mm³. This is approximately 8.62 × 4.84 × 9.84 inches. The Centauri Carbon is wider and deeper, allowing for larger prints in the X and Y axes. The Saturn 3 is taller in the Z-axis relative to its footprint. You have more width with the Centauri Carbon for broader projects.
Resolution and detail
Detail capability varies by technology. The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer uses a 10-inch 12K Mono LCD with a resolution of 11520 × 5120. It achieves an XY resolution of 19 × 24 μm. This high pixel density captures fine textures and smooth curves. The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer does not list a specific pixel resolution in the provided data. Its detail depends on nozzle size and layer height. For miniature figures or intricate models, the Saturn 3 offers superior surface finish. For mechanical parts, the Centauri Carbon provides adequate precision for most applications.
Structure and stability
Build quality impacts print consistency. The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon features a rigid, integrated die-cast aluminum frame. This design minimizes vibrations, which is crucial for high-speed printing. It also includes automatic vibration compensation. The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer uses a standard resin printer chassis. It includes a laser-carved build plate for adhesion but does not specify a die-cast frame. The Centauri Carbon’s CoreXY structure supports its high acceleration. The Saturn 3 relies on a different motion system. You get a more robust frame with the Centauri Carbon for dynamic printing.
Smart features
Modern printers often include connectivity and monitoring tools. The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer includes a built-in chamber camera with dual LED lighting. You can monitor prints in real time and capture time-lapse videos. It also has an intuitive touchscreen. The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer supports third-party slice software like CHITUBOX and Lychee Slicer. It offers static and dynamic printing modes. However, it does not list a built-in camera in the provided data. The Centauri Carbon provides better remote monitoring capabilities out of the box.
Choose Your ELEGOO Printer Today
Speed and strength focused makers
You need rapid production of durable parts. The Centauri Carbon reaches 500 mm/s with 20000 mm/s² acceleration. Its 320°C nozzle handles advanced filaments like carbon fiber. The CoreXY structure and die-cast frame ensure stability at high speeds, delivering strong, heat-resistant components for functional applications without sacrificing detail.
Detail oriented resin enthusiasts
You prioritize microscopic detail over speed. The Saturn 3 features a 12K mono LCD with 19 × 24 μm XY resolution. This 10-inch screen produces intricate models with exceptional clarity. The Fresnel collimating light source ensures uniform curing, while the laser-carved build plate offers superior adhesion for successful prints of complex geometries.
Users wanting large functional prints
You require a larger build area for bigger projects. The Centauri Carbon offers a 256x256x256 mm volume. It includes auto bed leveling and a built-in chamber camera for remote monitoring. The enclosed design and high-flow hotend support reliable printing of larger parts using standard or reinforced thermoplastics with minimal warping.
The products compared
ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer
Best for: High-speed printing with advanced filaments
- Build Volume
- 256x256x256 mm
- Print Speed
- 500 mm/s
- Leveling Type
- Auto bed leveling
- Motion Structure
- CoreXY
- Extruder Type
- Brass-hardened steel nozzle
- Features
- High Speed, Built-in Camera
View on Amazon: ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer Affiliate link
The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon is a CoreXY 3D printer built for speed and advanced materials. It reaches 500 mm/s print speeds with 20,000 mm/s² acceleration. The 320°C nozzle handles high-temp filaments like carbon fiber. You get a 256x256x256 mm build volume in a rigid die-cast frame. This model suits makers needing high throughput and material versatility.
Pros
- CoreXY structure supports 500 mm/s print speeds
- 320°C nozzle handles advanced filaments
- 256x256x256 mm build volume
- Built-in chamber camera for monitoring
- Fully assembled and auto-calibrated
Cons
- Smaller 256 mm build volume than resin alternatives
- Heavier 38.6 lb footprint
- No mention of Wi-Fi connectivity
Good fit if
- You need high-speed printing for functional parts
- You print with carbon fiber reinforced filaments
- You want a ready-to-use machine
Skip if
- You require ultra-high resolution for miniatures
- You need a larger build volume than 256 mm
- You prefer resin printing for detailed surfaces
Verdict: ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY delivers high-speed performance and material versatility for functional prototyping. It fits makers who prioritize speed and advanced filaments over resin-level detail.
ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer
Best for: High-detail resin modeling and miniatures
- Build Volume
- 218.88 × 122.88 × 250 mm³
- Print Speed
- up to 70 mm/h
- Printing Technology
- MSLA
- Color
- Red
- Resolution
- 12K
- Dimensions
- 12.1 × 10.8 × 22.1 inches
View on Amazon: ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer Affiliate link
The ELEGOO Saturn 3 is an MSLA resin printer designed for high-detail output. It features a 10-inch 12K mono LCD with 19 × 24 μm XY resolution. The build volume measures 218.88 × 122.88 × 250 mm³, allowing for medium-sized projects. Print speeds reach up to 70 mm/h. You get a laser-carved build plate for adhesion and a Fresnel collimating light source for uniform curing. This machine suits users prioritizing fine surface details over rapid production.
Pros
- 12K mono LCD provides 19 × 24 μm XY resolution
- Generous 218.88 × 122.88 × 250 mm³ build volume
- Fresnel collimating lens ensures over 90% light uniformity
- Laser-carved build plate improves print adhesion
Cons
- Print speed is limited to 70 mm/h
- MSLA technology requires handling liquid resin
- Build volume is smaller than large-format CoreXY printers
Good fit if
- You need high surface detail for miniatures or jewelry
- You prefer resin printing for its smooth finish
- Your models fit within the 218.88 mm width limit
Skip if
- You require high-speed production for large batches
- You want to print with thermoplastic filaments
- You need a build volume larger than 250 mm in height
Verdict: ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin Printer delivers exceptional detail for small to medium resin models. It fits hobbyists who value precision and surface quality over raw printing speed.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY 3D Printer | ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin 3D Printer |
|---|---|---|
| Build Volume | 256x256x256 mm | 218.88 × 122.88 × 250 mm³ |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | up to 70 mm/h |
| Printing Technology | not stated | MSLA |
| Leveling Type | Auto bed leveling | not stated |
| Motion Structure | CoreXY | not stated |
| Extruder Type | Brass-hardened steel nozzle | not stated |
| Structure | CoreXY | not stated |
| Features | High Speed, Built-in Camera | not stated |
| Color | Black | Red |
| Resolution | not stated | 12K |
| Dimensions | 15.7 × 15.9 × 19.3 inches | 12.1 × 10.8 × 22.1 inches |
| Weight | 38.6 pounds | 33 pounds |
| Size | Centauri Carbon | Medium |
| Model | Centauri Carbon | SATURN 3 |
Frequently asked questions
Which printer is better for printing functional prototypes?
The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY is the better choice for functional prototyping. It is designed for high-speed printing with advanced filaments. The CoreXY structure and 500mm/s speed allow for rapid production of durable parts. The Saturn 3 focuses on resin detail, which is less suitable for mechanical components.
How do the build volumes compare between the two models?
The ELEGOO Centauri Carbon has a larger footprint than the Saturn 3. The Centauri Carbon measures 15.9 inches in width and 15.7 inches in length. The Saturn 3 is more compact, with a width of 10.8 inches and a length of 12.1 inches. You should choose the Centauri if you need to print larger objects.
Does the Centauri Carbon include a camera for monitoring prints?
Yes, the ELEGOO Centauri Carbon CoreXY includes a built-in camera. This feature allows you to monitor your prints remotely. The Saturn 3 12K Resin Printer does not list a camera in its attributes. If remote monitoring is important to you, the Centauri Carbon provides this capability out of the box.
Which printer is lighter and easier to move?
The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin Printer is lighter than the Centauri Carbon. The Saturn 3 weighs 33 pounds. The Centauri Carbon weighs 38.6 pounds. If you plan to move your printer frequently or have limited space, the Saturn 3 offers a more portable solution due to its lower weight.
What is the main difference in printing technology between these two?
The Centauri Carbon uses fused filament fabrication, while the Saturn 3 uses MSLA resin technology. The Centauri Carbon melts thermoplastics for speed and strength. The Saturn 3 uses light to cure liquid resin for high detail. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize speed and material versatility or surface precision.
Which printer is better for printing small miniatures?
The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin Printer is better for small miniatures. It delivers exceptional detail for small to medium resin models. The 12K resolution provides high precision and surface quality. The Centauri Carbon focuses on speed and functional parts, making it less ideal for the fine details required for miniatures.
How tall is the ELEGOO Saturn 3 compared to the Centauri Carbon?
The ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K Resin Printer is taller than the Centauri Carbon. The Saturn 3 has a height of 22.1 inches. The Centauri Carbon stands at 19.3 inches tall. You should check your workspace ceiling height before purchasing the Saturn 3 to ensure it fits comfortably on your desk or shelf.