Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer vs QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

By the 3D Printer Lab editorial team · Updated 2026 · How we test & score

We compare the Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer and the QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer across every dimension that matters - our scores, the key specs, and how each performs on the things you will actually notice day to day.

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At a glance

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D PrinterQIDI PLUS4 3D Printer
Our score9.5/108.6/10
Best forMakers wanting versatile printing of functional parts and larger modelsMakers wanting versatile printing of functional parts and larger models
Not ideal forThose chasing the finest miniature detail - a resin printer suits that betterThose chasing the finest miniature detail - a resin printer suits that better
BrandCrealityQIDI

Build Volume and Print Size

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Build volume sets the practical limits for what this 3D printer can make, and it ties directly to the first-layer setup and leveling approach described earlier. The Ender 5 Max has a 400 x 400 x 400 mm build volume, giving room for larger parts and whole household items. With that space, projects such as storage boxes or garbage cans can be planned, while smaller components remain straightforward. Before printing, the bed calibration supports consistent first-layer adhesion across the full area. If a model exceeds the build area, it must be split, then assembled later.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Build volume is a major reason this printer is aimed at larger parts. The QIDI supports a maximum build size of 305 x 305 x 280 mm. The usable footprint is important for fitting full models or multiple smaller items in one session. A chamber height that reaches 280 mm helps when parts approach that height. For planning, users should measure parts and include clearance.

Print Speed and Quality

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Print speed and print quality depend on how the Ender 5 Max is driven and tuned. The printer is stated to reach up to 700 mm/s maximum printing speed, with an acceleration of 20000 mm/s³. Speed is positioned as a time-saving capability, but real-world results still depend on stable motion and good settings. For quality, the printer includes hot bed tilt calibration and automatic bed levelling, using 36-point calibration to support a solid first layer. When calibration is correct, surfaces look more consistent; if not, layer lines can show more variation.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Print speed is a key selling point of the 3D printer, rated at up to 600 mm/s to reduce the time needed for larger jobs. The QIDI is designed around a high-speed Core XY-style motion system to improve efficiency. Print quality is supported by upgraded chamber heating rated at 400 W, with air circulation and dual-layer insulation intended to help keep the chamber thermally stable. This approach can reduce warping and cracking when printing higher-temperature materials such as ABS, ASA, and PC. Fast travel can also increase the need for tuning, so results depend on setup and model geometry.

Filament Compatibility

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Speed and first-layer consistency are closely tied to filament choice, because the filament selection influences day-to-day print stability on the Ender 5 Max. The printer uses an extruder rated for high-temperature output up to 300 °C, making it better suited to commonly used materials that fall within that range. Filament diameter and drying habits need matching to avoid issues such as clogs, and a small test print is the practical step before committing to a full job. For slower, careful feed, PLA and similar plastics tend to behave predictably. Flexible filaments can be used, but the risk of stringing increases, so calibration checks are important.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Filament compatibility on the 3D printer is aimed at higher-temperature materials. The manufacturer lists support for ABS, ASA, PC, PA, plus PET, along with carbon-fibre reinforced options including PPS-CF and PPA-CF/GF (or PPA-CF with GF). The hotend is rated up to 370°C, which supports printing tougher filaments with fewer heat-related failures. Correct results depend on matching the enclosure heat needs to the chosen material, because warping and cracking can vary. The QIDI PLUS4 price is a secondary factor compared with selecting the right filament for the task.

Build Plate and Levelling

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Accurate bed contact is a key factor for reliable first layers, and the Ender 5 Max is designed to support consistent calibration. The build plate uses a 36-point levelling system for quick setup, alongside hot bed tilt calibration to reduce unevenness. Warm the bed first, run the levelling routine, then print a small first-layer test patch. If the patch shows gaps or ridges, re-check bed contact and repeat the calibration. This approach improves first-layer consistency, although setup steps are still required.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

On the QIDI, the build surface is a 6 mm thickened aluminium hot bed platform, built for both strength and flatness during printing. In the 3D printer workflow, users typically level before each session, then confirm the first layer by printing a small test pattern. The printer uses an independent dual motor-driven Z-axis, along with upgraded linear shafts and lead screws, to help keep Z motion consistent and reduce uneven layers. Final print results depend on how evenly the surface is cleaned and how carefully bed adjustments are made.

Software and Slicer Compatibility

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

After confirming bed contact and levelling, attention can shift to the software side, because slicing settings and file formats affect whether the printer can run a job smoothly. For the Creality, owners typically use a slicer that outputs standard G-code. The build volume is 400 x 400 x 400 mm, so the slicer limits must match before exporting. They should set temperatures, speeds, and layer heights to align with the hot end's stated 300 °C maximum and the printer's up to 700 mm/s capability. If the chosen profile is not aligned, adhesion and finish may be reduced.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Software and slicer support shape how well the QIDI fits established high-temperature FDM workflows, particularly as it is designed for ABS, ASA and PC-style printing with a hotend capable of 370°C. For the 3D printer listing, compatibility rests on whether the slicer can handle those material profiles and export standard G-code, followed by aligning the printer's temperatures and speeds with the chosen profile (not stated). Strength comes from broad material support, while a limitation is that chamber-heated printing may need manual tuning because exact preset guidance (not stated) may not be provided.

Setup and Learning Curve

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Once the printer is unboxed and assembled to the point where the build plate is secure, setup becomes the main factor in how quickly the Ender 5 Max can produce reliable prints. With the 3D printer, users should expect an initial calibration routine, since it uses 36-point bed levelling and hot bed tilt calibration. First, the frame is secured and the X-axis linear rail alignment is checked, followed by confirmation that the dual Z-axis motion is smooth. Next, bed levelling is run, then the first layer is tuned using test prints, because adhesion depends on surface evenness.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Setup for this 3D printer is straightforward, as the manufacturer states it can be unboxed and used to print in about 10 minutes. After the initial power-on, filament loading and the printer's basic checks should be completed, because wrap and break detection can reduce waste. Bed preparation centres on ensuring the 6 mm aluminium platform sits flat, since consistent bed preparation supports reliable results and can help reduce warping. For early learning, beginners typically start with ABS or ASA at moderate temperatures, then adjust for higher-temperature materials, up to 370°C supported. Overall, the QIDI offers an easy start, but it requires tuning for each filament type.

Noise and Enclosure

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

Noise and enclosure matter for the Creality because it runs with frequent motion on the X/Y axes and continuous heating at the hot bed and extruder, so the room environment can affect comfort and placement. In a typical room, the moving axes may be heard, and thermal load near the printer can make nearby areas feel warmer. An enclosure can help reduce drafts that shift prints, yet it also requires careful placement so airflow around the machine is not blocked. The 3D printer pros and cons include faster production potential, but quieter operation is not indicated.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Once the printer is up and the bed readiness checks are complete, the focus turns to how the QIDI PLUS4 performs during printing, particularly sound levels and how well it contains heat. The 3D printer uses an active chamber heating approach, supported by 400 W heating and an air-circulation design, along with dual-layer insulation aimed at keeping temperatures more balanced. The enclosed design helps retain warm air, but it does not remove the sound generated by motion from the Core XY system and by active fan circulation. Printer noise remains noticeable in operation, so placing the unit on a stable surface supports better steadiness.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

With motion on the X and Y axes and constant warmth from the hot bed and extruder already affecting nearby comfort and placement, proper upkeep helps keep print quality stable over time. For the Creality Ender 5 Max, cleaning begins after cooldown, when the hot bed and a 300 °C extruder have fully stopped. They scrape residue from the build surface, wipe dust off linear rails, and check for filament buildup at the nozzle. Monthly, the operator inspects the hardened extruder area and clears clogs using cold-pull style removal, if needed. He also verifies 36-point leveling results, because even small unevenness increases failed first layers.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

For reliable prints, regular cleaning and basic upkeep matter, especially because the PLUS4 is designed to run at high temperatures and in an active heated chamber. Owners should let the chamber cool first, then wipe dust off the frame and air path, and inspect the dual-layer insulated area for debris. After each session, they should clear the nozzle exterior, check for filament leaks, and remove stray blobs from the heated bed. A quick bed wipe with a suitable cleaner helps adhesion, whereas periodic hotend throat checks reduce clog risk. Use safe gloves, and avoid solvents on electrical parts.

Who Is This 3D Printer For?

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer

The Creality suits makers, small shops, and hobbyists who need a large FDM build area and faster production runs, thanks to its 400 mm x 400 mm x 400 mm build volume and specification of up to 700 mm/s print speed with 20000 mm/s³ acceleration. It also fits users who plan to print larger household items or storage boxes, as well as teams producing multiple parts quickly. The printer is also a good fit for users who prioritise automatic bed levelling, with 36-point calibration and a 300 °C high-temperature extruder designed to support more consistent first layers. Users focused on ultra-small precision should verify suitability.

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer

Who is this 3D printer for? It suits makers who want a larger 305 x 305 x 280 mm FDM build and plan to print multiple parts at once, for prototypes, jigs and functional models. The active chamber heating, up to 400 W, makes it a better fit for higher-temperature plastics like ABS, ASA and PC, where warping is a concern. For users printing at speed on a Core XY design, it may also feel efficient. For a casual PLA-only hobby, the QIDI may be more machine than needed.

Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer: pros

  • Up to 700 mm/s print speed
  • Automatic bed levelling

Cons

  • Slicing and first-layer setup take some learning
  • Consumables (filament/resin, nozzles/FEP) add to running cost

QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer: pros

  • 305 x 305 x 280 mm build volume
  • Up to 600 mm/s print speed
  • Automatic bed levelling
  • Supports ABS, ASA, PC

Cons

  • Slicing and first-layer setup take some learning
  • Consumables (filament/resin, nozzles/FEP) add to running cost

Our verdict

Our pick is the Creality Ender 5 Max 3D Printer (our score 9.5/10) - A FDM 3d printer (700 mm/s), a versatile choice for everyday printing. The QIDI PLUS4 3D Printer is still worth it if it is cheaper when you check, or if it better matches your specific needs.