1. A Common Problem
In 3D printing, people often face a basic choice: should you pick a proven, strong design or go with the latest speed and modern features? In 2025, no two printers show this choice better than the Ender-3 S1 Pro and the Ender-3 V3 KE. You need to decide between two very good machines that cost about the same but represent two different ways of thinking about printing. One feels like a tough, metal tool built to last a long time; the other is a sleek, smart speed machine made for quick results. This detailed comparison goes beyond just looking at basic specs. We will examine the main conflict: the S1 Pro's high-quality, all-metal construction versus the V3 KE's amazing speed and modern operating system, which uses more plastic parts. Our goal is to help you decide which approach fits your specific needs, projects, and printing style.
2. Key Different Approaches
For users who want the main points right away, this table shows the core ideas of each machine and what they mean for you as the user.
| Feature / Philosophy | Creality Ender-3 S1 Pro | Creality Ender-3 V3 KE |
|---|---|---|
| Main Identity | The Strong Worker | The High-Speed Racer |
| Build & Frame | Mostly metal parts, two Z-axis screws | Metal frame with more plastic parts (moving parts, covers) |
| What This Means for You | Feels durable, stable, reduces shaking | Lighter, cost-effective for speed, might be noisier |
| Top Print Speed | ~150 mm/s (realistic) | 500 mm/s (claimed), ~300 mm/s (realistic) |
| What This Means for You | Slower, careful prints; focuses on consistency | Much faster print times, quick prototyping |
| Operating System | Marlin-based, knob-controlled LCD screen | Creality OS (Klipper-based), touch screen that responds quickly |
| What This Means for You | Works but feels old; needs SD card | Modern interface, WiFi printing, remote control, smart features |
| Hotend | 300°C All-Metal "Sprite" Direct Drive | 300°C Ceramic Heater Hotend, "Sprite" Direct Drive |
| What This Means for You | Great for high-temperature materials (Nylon, PC) right away | High flow for speed, also handles high-temperature materials |
| Best User Type | Tinkerers, engineers, users who want reliability | Hobbyists, prototypers, users who want speed & convenience |
3. The Metal Worker Case
This section looks at the real benefits of the Ender-3 S1 Pro's traditional, heavy-duty design approach for users. It's about understanding why a "tank-like" construction still has great value.
What "All-Metal" Means
The term "all-metal build" on the S1 Pro goes beyond just the frame. It points to a design that focuses on mechanical stability and strength. The most