Longer or Original Prusa? 3d Printers Compared in 2026
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Choosing between the Longer LK5 Pro and the Original Prusa CORE One+ depends on your specific workflow needs. Both machines are FDM 3D printers designed for reliable output, but they approach performance differently. The Longer LK5 Pro emphasizes a large build volume and open-source flexibility. The Original Prusa CORE One+ focuses on enclosed stability and CoreXY speed. This longer vs original prusa 3d printer comparison breaks down the key specifications to help you decide which machine fits your projects.
Key differences
| Aspect | Longer LK5 Pro Large Open-Source 3D Printer | Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed CoreXY |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Triangular frame | CoreXY with all-steel exoskeleton |
| Build Volume | 300 x 300 x 400 mm | 250 x 220 x 270 mm |
| Enclosure | Open frame | Fully enclosed active-heated chamber |
| Print Speed | 180 mm/s | Not listed |
| Assembly | 90% pre-assembled | Fully assembled and tested |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Longer LK5 Pro Large Open-Source 3D Printer if
- You need a large build volume for bigger prints up to 400 mm in height.
- You prefer an open-frame design that allows for easy customization and open-source firmware modifications.
- You want a printer that arrives 90% pre-assembled to reduce setup time.
Choose Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed CoreXY if
- You print with engineering materials like ASA, PC, or Nylon that require stable, heated chamber temperatures.
- You prioritize dimensional accuracy and high-speed printing through a rigid CoreXY motion system.
- You want a fully assembled unit with automatic calibration and integrated smart material handling features.
Verdict: The Longer LK5 Pro is the better choice if you need maximum build volume and open-source flexibility for general DIY projects. The Original Prusa CORE One+ is superior for users who print advanced materials or require the precision and stability of an enclosed CoreXY system. Your decision should hinge on whether size or material stability matters more to your workflow.
LK5 Pro vs CORE One+ Comparison
Build Volume
The Longer LK5 Pro offers a substantial 300 x 300 x 400 mm build volume. This large footprint provides ample space for printing oversized parts or multiple smaller items simultaneously. In contrast, the Original Prusa CORE One+ features a more compact 250 x 220 x 270 mm volume. While still spacious for most hobbyist and professional tasks, it is physically smaller than the Longer model. If you frequently print large prototypes or need maximum interior space, the Longer LK5 Pro provides a clear advantage in raw dimensions.
Motion Structure
The Original Prusa CORE One+ utilizes a CoreXY motion system. This design typically allows for higher acceleration and precise movement, contributing to its high-speed performance claims. The Longer LK5 Pro employs a standard Cartesian structure with reinforced inclined rods to minimize resonance errors. While both systems aim for stability, the CoreXY architecture in the Prusa is engineered for dynamic speed and accuracy. Users prioritizing rapid toolhead movement and advanced kinematics will find the Prusa CORE One+ superior in this mechanical category.
Print Speed
The Longer LK5 Pro specifies a maximum print speed of 180 mm/s. This high rate is supported by its firmware and automatic calibration features to maintain quality during fast moves. The Original Prusa CORE One+ is marketed as a high-speed printer but does not list a specific maximum speed in the provided data. Given its CoreXY design and focus on rapid prototyping, it likely competes closely, but the Longer model provides a concrete speed figure. For buyers who need a documented maximum feed rate, the Longer LK5 Pro has the edge.
Enclosure
The Original Prusa CORE One+ is fully enclosed with an active-heated chamber. This design helps manage temperature for engineering materials like ASA, PC, and Nylon, reducing warping and improving layer adhesion. The Longer LK5 Pro is an open-frame printer. While it offers good stability for common materials like PLA and PETG, it lacks the thermal consistency of an enclosed chamber. If you plan to print high-temperature filaments or need a controlled environment, the Prusa CORE One+ is the better choice.
Open Source
The Longer LK5 Pro features an open-source motherboard and firmware. This allows you to modify G-code and customize the printer’s behavior to suit specific needs. The Original Prusa CORE One+ is compatible with the open-source Prusa ecosystem and receives long-term firmware support. However, the Longer model explicitly highlights its open-source motherboard as a key feature for customization. If you value the ability to deeply tinker with the underlying hardware and software architecture, the Longer LK5 Pro offers more direct open-source access.
Which 3D Printer Fits Your Workflow
Need large parts and open hardware
Choose the Longer LK5 Pro if you require a massive 300 x 300 x 400 mm build volume. Its triangular structure and open-source firmware allow for deep customization. You get 180 mm/s speed and 0.1 mm precision, making it ideal for large DIY projects or school use where flexibility matters most.
Print engineering materials like Nylon
Select the Original Prusa CORE One+ for its fully enclosed active-heated chamber. This design stabilizes temperatures for materials like ASA, PC, and Nylon, reducing warping. The CoreXY motion system ensures high speed and precision, while the rigid steel frame provides durability for consistent, professional-grade results in various environments.
Want quick setup and support
The Original Prusa CORE One+ arrives fully assembled and tested. You can start printing within minutes thanks to automatic calibration and intuitive software. It includes lifetime technical assistance and 24/7 support. This ready-to-print experience minimizes setup time, letting you focus on production workflows rather than initial configuration.
The products compared
Longer LK5 Pro Large Open-Source 3D Printer
Best for: Large open-frame FDM printing
- Build Volume
- 300*300*400mm
- Print Speed
- 180mm/s
- Printing Technology
- FDM
- Features
- Resume Printing, Open Source
- Target Audience
- Beginners
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: Longer LK5 Pro Large Open-Source 3D Printer Affiliate link
The Longer LK5 Pro is an FDM printer with a 300x300x400mm build volume. It prints at 180mm/s with 0.1mm precision. The triangular frame adds stability. You get filament detection and auto-resume. It arrives 90% assembled. This model suits beginners needing a large canvas for DIY or school projects.
Pros
- 300x300x400mm build volume
- 180mm/s print speed
- 0.1mm precision
- Filament and power outage detection
- Open-source firmware
Cons
- No enclosed chamber
- No Wi-Fi or app control
- Open-frame design
Good fit if
- You need a large 400mm print height
- You want open-source firmware for customization
- You prefer a stable triangular frame structure
Skip if
- You require an enclosed chamber for ABS
- You want built-in Wi-Fi connectivity
- You need a fully assembled unit out of the box
Verdict: The Longer LK5 Pro Large FDM Printer offers a large build volume and high speed for beginners. It fits users who prioritize open-source firmware and stability over enclosure.
Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed CoreXY
Best for: Enclosed high-speed printing of engineering materials
- Build Volume
- 250 × 220 × 270 mm
- Printing Technology
- FDM
- Motion Structure
- CoreXY
- Compatible Material
- PLA
- Features
- High Speed, Enclosed
- Color
- Orange
View on Amazon: Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed CoreXY Affiliate link
The Original Prusa CORE One+ is a fully enclosed CoreXY 3D printer designed for high-speed, precise printing. It features a 250 × 220 × 270 mm build volume and an active-heated chamber for stable material handling. You get a rigid all-steel frame and automatic ventilation. It arrives fully assembled with one-click printing. This model suits users needing professional reliability and support for engineering filaments.
Pros
- CoreXY motion system for fast, precise printing
- Fully enclosed active-heated chamber reduces warping
- Rigid all-steel exoskeleton frame for durability
- Automatic ventilation adjusts to material temperature
Cons
- Smaller build volume than the Longer LK5 Pro
- Heavy at 56.9 pounds
- Larger footprint than compact desktop models
Good fit if
- You need stable printing for ASA, PC, or Nylon
- You want a fully assembled machine with lifetime support
- You require high precision for prototyping
Skip if
- You need a large build volume over 11 inches
- You prefer a lightweight, portable unit
- You only print basic PLA and want the smallest footprint
Verdict: Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed 3D Printer delivers professional-grade reliability and speed for users who prioritize material stability and precision. It is ideal for workshops needing consistent results with engineering filaments.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Longer LK5 Pro Large Open-Source 3D Printer | Original Prusa CORE One+ Enclosed CoreXY |
|---|---|---|
| Build Volume | 300*300*400mm | 250 × 220 × 270 mm |
| Print Speed | 180mm/s | not stated |
| Printing Technology | FDM | FDM |
| Motion Structure | not stated | CoreXY |
| Compatible Material | not stated | PLA |
| Structure | not stated | CoreXY |
| Features | Resume Printing, Open Source | High Speed, Enclosed |
| Target Audience | Beginners | not stated |
| Color | Black | Orange |
| Dimensions | 20 × 20 × 15 inches | 16.3 × 17.5 × 28.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 54 pounds |
| Size | Longer-LK5 Pro | not stated |
| Model | LK5 Pro | Original Prusa CORE One+ |
Frequently asked questions
Which printer is better for large open-frame projects?
The Longer LK5 Pro is the better choice for large open-frame projects. It offers a spacious 300 x 300 x 400 mm build volume. This allows you to print oversized parts without size constraints. The open-source firmware also lets you customize the machine to fit your specific workflow needs.
Can I print engineering filaments safely on the Original Prusa?
Yes, the Original Prusa CORE One+ is designed for this. It features an enclosed structure that maintains stable temperatures. This enclosure is crucial for printing engineering materials that require consistent heat. You get professional-grade reliability and precision, making it ideal for workshops needing consistent results with sensitive filaments.
Does the Longer LK5 Pro support open-source firmware?
Yes, the Longer LK5 Pro supports open-source firmware. This feature allows for deep customization of the printer's operations. You can modify settings to suit your specific printing requirements. This flexibility is a key advantage for users who prioritize open hardware and want to tweak their machine's performance.
Which printer has a higher print speed?
The Original Prusa CORE One+ is built for high-speed printing. Its CoreXY structure enables faster movement and consistent results. The Longer LK5 Pro also supports high speeds, reaching up to 180 mm/s. However, the CORE One+ emphasizes speed combined with enclosed stability for engineering materials.
Is the Original Prusa CORE One+ enclosed?
Yes, the Original Prusa CORE One+ is an enclosed 3D printer. This design helps maintain a stable internal environment. It is essential for printing materials that require consistent heat. The enclosed structure ensures better material stability and precision, which is vital for professional-grade output.
What is the build volume of the Longer LK5 Pro?
The Longer LK5 Pro has a build volume of 300 x 300 x 400 mm. This large footprint provides ample space for oversized parts. You can also print multiple smaller items simultaneously. This makes it a strong option for users who prioritize size and capacity in their 3D printing projects.