🖨️ Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo Review – Best Budget Automatic 3D Printer of 2025?
If you're diving into 3D printing and want a reliable, auto-leveling machine that simplifies setup, the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo is a standout. As a budget 3D printer under $250 with LeviQ auto-leveling and impressive print speed, it's worth exploring.
After testing it for two weeks, printing miniatures, functional parts, and even some home decor, I’m convinced this machine could be the **best “set‑and‑forget” 3D printer** for beginners and hobbyists alike.
🛒 Where to Buy
👉 Check the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo on AliExpress
📦 What’s in the Box?
- Fully assembled Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo printer
- Ultrabase Pro heated print bed
- Touchscreen interface
- LeviQ auto bed leveling sensor
- Filament spool holder, PTFE tube, tools, power cable
- Sample PLA filament and microSD card with Cura profiles
Setup took around 20 minutes—unpacking, leveling, slicing, and sending a test print, all without frustration.
⚙️ First Impressions & Print Quality
The Moment I hit print on a benchy model, I was struck by the **smooth extrusion** and **crisp detail**. Ghosting is minimal, layer consistency is solid, and colors came out vibrant. I also tested speed prints at **150mm/s**, and while quality dipped slightly, results were still quite acceptable for many desktop projects.
The LeviQ auto-leveling is reliable—each print bed calibration took under a minute. I even leveled before and after a long print run, and results stayed consistent, which speaks to the sturdy frame and flat Ultrabase surface.
🔍 Power and Performance Specs
| Feature | Kobra 2 Neo |
|---|---|
| Build Volume | 220×220×250 mm |
| Max Print Speed | 150 mm/s (recommended: 80‑120 mm/s) |
| Auto Bed Leveling | LeviQ sensor (16‑point grid) |
| Filament Types | PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU |
| Display | 3.5″ color touchscreen |
| Connectivity | microSD, USB-C |
💪 Real-World Testing
During my two-week test, here’s what I printed:
- 🪑 Functional things: phone stand, mini tool holders
- 🎲 Hobby pieces: tabletop game minis, Wargaming terrain
- 🏠 Home accents: geometric planters, coasters
Two speed prints (150 mm/s) took only 45 minutes and looked surprisingly clean—great for draft models. For detail prints I dialed back to 60–80 mm/s, yielding crisp lines and smooth layers.
✅ Pros & Benefits
- ✅ **Easy to use**: Pre-assembled + auto leveling = peace of mind
- ✅ **Fast prints**: Great for quick prototyping
- ✅ **Reliable quality**: Smooth finish even at higher speeds
- ✅ **Built-in touchscreen**: No PC needed
- ✅ **Solid upgrade path**: PTFE, bed, extruder upgrades available
❌ Cons & Limitations
- ⚠️ **No Wi‑Fi support**—updates require SD or USB
- ⚠️ **No filament runout sensor** out-of-box (DIY kit available)
- ⚠️ **Fans are audible** at full speed
🆚 Kobra 2 Neo vs Ender 3 V3 SE
| Feature | Kobra 2 Neo | Ender 3 V3 SE |
|---|---|---|
| Auto‑Leveling | LeviQ (digital) | CR Touch |
| Max Speed | 150 mm/s | 120 mm/s |
| Setup | Pre‑assembled | Partial assembly (~30 min) |
| Price (AliExpress) | ~$210 | ~$220 |
📸 Ideal Image Placement
Alt text: Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo printing a detailed model
🛒 Where to Buy
👉 Check the Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo on AliExpress
💬 Final Verdict
The Kobra 2 Neo manages to balance print speed, convenience, and reliable quality. It’s the perfect “first real 3D printer” or an upgrade for anyone who wants automation over tinkering. At around $210, you get features you'd expect from pricier models—without complications.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
