Creality Ender 3 vs Ender 3 V2 (Head to Head Comparison)

Which between the Ender 3 and the Ender 3 V2 should you choose? What differences do the two printers have? Read our comparison guide below to find out.

In 2020, the Creality3D Ender-3 V2, which is a new version of Creality3D Ender-3, was released.

If you haven’t done so yet, check our Creality Ender 3 V2 review.

The Creality Ender 3 was a hit in the 3D printing world thanks to its print quality, easy assembly, and low price. In online forums, owners of the printer began to share ideas on modifications and models for upgrading the printer

The Creality Ender user community is really huge and there is a wealth of information about the printers. We decided to figure out how the Ender-3 differs from the Ender-3 V2 and whether it is worth buying the new version.

Creality Ender 3 vs Ender 3 V2

Assembly

Both models come in an assembly kit format. This is one of the reasons why Creality printers are fairly cheap. The assembly process is quite simple. If you are new to 3D printers, assembling the kit will give you a hands-on experience with the devices and allow you to better understand the 3D printing process.

Appearance

Visually, the Ender-3 V2 and Ender-3 are similar, with a few notable exceptions.

To begin, the power supply in the updated model is hidden at the bottom of the printer. The display also looks new; now it is a color HD-screen instead of the old LCD. However, it is also controlled by an encoder.

The extruder is housed in a new, more aesthetic plastic case with the Creality logo.

Generally, the V2 version has a more noble and modern design.

Build Volume

Both models have the same build volume, i.e, 220 x 220 x 250 mm. The two 3D printers also have the bed temperature, compatible plastics and print speed.

Technical Specs

A nice bonus is the function of resuming printing after power outages.

The platform alignment process is manual on both models, but the large calibration nuts make it easy and convenient.

As you can see, the specifications of the Ender-3 V2 and Ender-3 are almost the same.

With that said, you might think that the difference between the Ender 3 and the Ender 3 V2 is only in the price. However, this is not the case.

Let’s find out what has changed.

Differences Between Ender 3 and Ender 3 V2

Motherboard

One of the notable differences in the Ender 3 V2 is an updated 32-bit, “super-quiet” motherboard developed by Creality. The noise level does not exceed 50 decibels, which is comparable to the level of a normal conversation.

Moreover, the printer is fitted with a new proprietary power supply by MeanWell, which allows you to choose between 115 V or 230 V.

Belt

Creality also added two adjustable X and Y tensioners to extend belt life, and a rotary extruder handle for manual filament loading. The tensioners make it easier to adjust the belt tension. In the Ender 3. you first need to unscrew the screws, tighten the belt with a hex wrench, and then tighten the screws while maintaining tension.

And as a nice touch, there is a small box at the base of the printer for storing tools, nozzles, etc.

Conclusion

Creality develops updates based on countless feedback on how users customize and update their printers and then build them into new models. Therefore, we can say that the Ender 3 V2 is a collective update.

Despite the changes, the basic specifications of the Ender 3 V2 are the same as the original Ender 3. Both printers work with the same plastics, offering consistent quality and are easy to use. The choice between the new Ender 3 V2 and the classic Ender 3 is more of a budget.

The Ender 3 version can be easily updated independently, for example, by replacing the printing platform with a glass-ceramic one. Other functions in the form of tensioners, a rotary handle, a tool box exclusively affect the convenience of working with the device.

However, MeanWell’s proprietary power supply and Creality’s 32-bit motherboard offer much quieter printing and faster heating of the extruder and print bed.

Ultimately, if you want a quiet machine with all the bells and whistles, the Creality Ender 3 V2 3D printer is well worth it. Moreover, it will be much easier to use for those new to 3D printing.

However, if value for money is the main selection criterion, go with the Creality Ender 3.

Printed on Ender-3 V2 by @JerryEKnapp

Printed on Ender-3 V2

There we go, now you know the differences between the Ender 3 and the Ender 3 V2.