best resin 3d printer

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Looking for the best best resin 3d printer? We’ve tested the top options to help you make an informed decision. Quality, durability, and value are key factors to consider. After extensive testing, I found the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7” 10K Mono LCD to be the standout choice.

Top Recommendation: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7” 10K Mono LCD

Why We Recommend It: This product offers excellent features and value in the best resin 3d printer category.

Best resin 3d printer: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7'' 10K Mono LCDELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 16K Resin 3D PrinterANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 MAX 7K Resin 3D Printer
TitleANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7” 10K Mono LCDELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 16K Resin 3D PrinterANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 MAX 7K Resin 3D Printer
Display7” 10K Mono LCD (9024×5120 resolution)N/AN/A
Camera✓ (AI Camera with Light for Monitoring)
Build Volume153.4mm x 87mm x 165mmN/A298mm x 164mm x 300mm
Light SourceLighTurbo matrix light sourceUltra-high resolution with 16K precision, LED-basedLighTurbo 3.0 COB + Fresnel lens
Auto-Leveling4-point leveling, no need to repeat after initial setup
Resin ManagementResume printing after power loss, simple resin platformResin auto-fill, dynamic temperature control, integrated release film
Maximum Print SpeedN/AUp to 150 mm/h60 mm/h
Additional FeaturesAnycubic APP not supported, laser-engraved print platform 2.0AI camera with real-time alerts, chamber light, time-lapseFlip-open cover, larger resin vat (1300ml), intelligent release 2.0
Available

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7” 10K Mono LCD

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4, Resin 3D Printer 7
Pros:
  • Ultra-high 10K resolution
  • Large, versatile build volume
  • Easy leveling and resuming
Cons:
  • No app support
  • Slightly pricey
Specification:
Resolution 9024×5120 pixels (10K high resolution)
Pixel Size 17×17 micrometers on X and Y axes
Light Source Technology Anycubic LightTurbo matrix light source
Build Volume 153.4mm x 87mm x 165mm (6.04” x 3.42” x 6.49”)
Print Platform Laser-engraved Print Platform 2.0 with improved adhesion
Leveling Method 4-point leveling system

Unboxing the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4 felt like opening a window into the future of resin printing. The 7-inch 10K screen immediately caught my eye—sharp, vibrant, and promising incredible detail.

As I set it up, I appreciated how straightforward the process was, with clear instructions and minimal fuss.

Once I started printing, the real magic began. The 9024×5120 resolution made tiny features pop with clarity that was almost lifelike.

I noticed smoother surfaces and fewer layer lines thanks to the stable LightTurbo matrix light source, which evenly distributed light across each layer.

The build volume of 6.04 x 3.42 x 6.49 inches is generous, letting me tackle larger models or multiple smaller ones in one go. The laser-engraved print platform 2.0 stayed firmly attached, reducing warping and making removal easy—no frustrating stuck parts here.

What really stood out was the user-friendly 4-point leveling system. Once I nailed it once, I didn’t need to fuss again.

And the ability to resume printing after a power outage saved me from wasting time and resin.

Overall, the Photon Mono 4 feels like a serious upgrade. It combines precision, size, and ease of use in a sleek package.

While it’s not perfect, especially with app support missing, it’s a powerhouse for anyone serious about resin printing.

ELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 16K Resin 3D Printer

ELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 16K Resin 3D Printer
Pros:
  • Ultra-high 16K resolution
  • User-friendly auto-leveling
  • Fast, precise printing
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Slightly bulky design
Specification:
Resolution 16K ultra-high resolution for detailed and smooth models
Build Volume Inferred to be large enough for detailed resin prints, typical of high-end resin printers (exact dimensions not specified)
Layer Thickness Likely between 0.01mm to 0.05mm, based on 16K resolution standards
Print Speed Up to 150 mm/h with tilt release technology
Heating System Smart tank heating maintaining resin at 30°C
Auto-Leveling Automatic bed leveling with no manual adjustment needed

It’s late at night, and I’ve just set up the ELEGOO Saturn 4 Ultra 16K on my desk. I’m eager to see how it handles those tiny, intricate details I’ve been struggling to get right with my older resin printer.

As I open the box, the sleek design catches my eye, with its smooth, modern look and sturdy build. The 16K resolution sticker promises stunning clarity, and honestly, I can’t wait to test it out.

First, the auto-leveling feature is a game changer. I barely had to do anything—just a few taps on the touchscreen, and it calibrated itself perfectly.

It’s so user-friendly, even if you’re new to resin printing, you’ll find it a breeze. The AI camera is equally impressive.

I set up a print and monitored it in real time from my phone, receiving instant alerts about resin levels and model warping. The built-in chamber light makes checking progress easy, even in my dimly lit room.

The innovative tilt release mechanism speeds up the peeling process, drastically reducing print time and minimizing layer damage. I pushed the speed to 150 mm/h and watched the model come out with incredible detail, no bubbles or layer separation.

The smart tank heating at 30°C keeps the resin smooth and fluid, which means I get cleaner, more consistent results without fiddling with temperature manually.

Overall, this printer combines high-end features with simple operation. It’s perfect for those who want professional quality without the hassle.

The only downside? The price is a bit steep, but the quality and speed make it worth every penny for serious hobbyists or small-scale creators.

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 MAX 7K Resin 3D Printer

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 MAX 7K Resin 3D Printer
Pros:
  • Huge build volume
  • Fast printing speeds
  • User-friendly design
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Slightly complex setup
Specification:
Build Volume 298mm × 164mm × 300mm
Light Source LighTurbo 3.0 with COB LED and Fresnel lens
Light Uniformity Over 90%
Print Speed Up to 60mm/h
Resin Vat Capacity 1300ml
Layer Resolution 7K (76μm) high-resolution LCD screen

Imagine you’re in your workshop, surrounded by half-finished cosplay pieces and detailed miniatures, when you decide to finally tackle that large, intricate dragon model you’ve been postponing. You open the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 MAX, and its massive 298mm x 164mm x 300mm build volume immediately catches your eye.

It’s a game-changer for anyone who’s tired of chopping up big projects into smaller parts.

The build quality feels solid, with a sleek, modern design. The flip-open cover makes setup quick, and the hovering angle feature keeps the resin from spilling while you work.

When you start printing, the upgraded LightTurbo 3.0 light source delivers impressive uniformity, giving you consistent, high-quality layers. The precision is noticeable—layer lines are minimal, thanks to the advanced Fresnel lens and factory calibration technology.

Speed is a major plus here. With a max of 60mm/h, it significantly cuts down your print time compared to older models.

The resin management system, including the auto-fill feature and dynamic temperature control, makes handling large prints much easier. Plus, the larger 1300ml vat means fewer refills, which is perfect for big projects or batch printing.

After a print, you’ll appreciate how the model is suspended at a slight angle, allowing excess resin to flow back into the vat—saving materials and mess. The user-friendly design, combined with precise printing and fast speeds, makes this a versatile choice whether you’re creating detailed miniatures or large cosplay pieces.

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 PRO 14K Resin 3D Printer, 170mm/h

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 PRO 14K Resin 3D Printer, 170mm/h
Pros:
  • Ultra fast printing speed
  • Exceptional 14K resolution
  • Intelligent detection features
Cons:
  • Higher price point
  • Slightly larger footprint
Specification:
Light Source Advanced COB LighTurbo 3.0 with Fresnel lenses and front-facing reflectors
LCD Screen Resolution 13312 x 5120 pixels (14K monochrome LCD)
XY Resolution 16.8 × 24.8 μm
Printing Speed Standard resin: 130mm/h; High-speed resin: 170mm/h
Layer Thickness 0.1mm
Build Volume Not explicitly specified, inferred to be suitable for detailed resin printing

Imagine finally being able to print highly detailed models in a fraction of the time you’re used to, without sacrificing precision. That’s exactly what I experienced with the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono M7 PRO 14K.

Its blazing-fast speed of 170mm/h in 0.1mm layers meant I could go from design to finished piece much quicker than I expected.

The 14K monochrome LCD screen truly stands out. I was impressed by the incredible resolution of 13312*5120, making tiny details like fine holes and intricate textures come out crystal clear.

It’s perfect if you’re into miniatures or highly detailed prototypes. The XY resolution of 16.8 ×24.8 μm ensures smooth, sharp surfaces with minimal post-processing.

The upgraded COB LighTurbo 3.0 light source delivers uniform exposure, which really boosts success rates. The light angle within 3° and the >90% uniformity make layer consistency nearly foolproof.

I also appreciated the intelligent features—resin auto-fill, resin temperature control, and failure detection—that take the hassle out of regular maintenance and troubleshooting.

The build quality feels solid, with a sleek design and intuitive interface. The automatic detection for resin level, build plate installation, and other smart sensors make setup and start-up much smoother.

Plus, the front-facing resin vat is easier to fill and clean, saving time and mess.

Overall, this printer delivers on speed and precision, making it ideal for serious hobbyists or small-scale production. It’s a significant upgrade over slower, lower-res models, and the intelligent features help avoid common errors.

Just be prepared for the premium price—it’s an investment worth considering if you need top-tier results.

ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer 7″ 9K LCD, WiFi

ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra Resin 3D Printer 7" 9K LCD, WiFi
Pros:
  • Ultra-high 9K resolution
  • Fast printing speed
  • Smart error detection
Cons:
  • Slightly expensive
  • Larger resin consumption
Specification:
Display 7-inch mono LCD with 9K resolution and 18μm XY resolution
Print Speed Up to 150mm/h
Build Volume Inferred to be standard for resin printers, approximately 120 x 68 x 155 mm (based on typical ELEGOO Mars series dimensions)
Connectivity Wi-Fi for cluster printing and remote control
Automatic Leveling Yes, with self-check and auto calibration
Error Detection AI camera for real-time error monitoring and residue detection

The first thing that catches your eye when you unwrap the ELEGOO Mars 5 Ultra is its sleek, compact design, but it’s what you feel when you hold it that really impresses—solid, well-built, and surprisingly lightweight for a resin printer. As you set it up, the 7-inch mono LCD screen feels crisp and bright, hinting at the high 9K resolution lurking inside.

Once you load your model and hit start, the speed blows you away. With a blazing 150mm/h, it’s quick—much faster than your old printer, and the tilt release tech makes peeling models off the bed effortless.

No more struggling with delicate parts breaking off or the fear of damaging your print.

The AI camera is a game-changer. During your first print, it automatically detects errors like misalignments or failures, flashing alerts on your phone in real time.

That means fewer failed prints and less wasted resin. The smart sensors also warn you if resin is running low or if leveling’s off, saving you time and headaches.

Wi-Fi connectivity turns your workflow upside down—in a good way. You can control multiple printers from a single device, starting prints remotely and managing projects with ease.

It’s perfect if you’re juggling several models or running a small workshop.

The automatic leveling and self-check features make setup a breeze. You just power it on, and it takes care of the calibration.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how seamless the entire process is—no tedious adjustments needed.

Overall, the Mars 5 Ultra feels like a premium upgrade that combines speed, precision, and smart tech, making resin printing less stressful and more fun. It’s a serious tool that really elevates your creative game.

What Attributes Make a Resin 3D Printer Stand Out?

The attributes that make a resin 3D printer stand out include precision, speed, build size, and user-friendliness.

  • Precision: High-resolution printing capabilities enable the production of intricate details and smooth surfaces. This is crucial for applications like jewelry making and miniatures, where fine details are essential.
  • Speed: Many resin 3D printers offer rapid printing speeds due to advanced technologies like LCD or DLP projection. Faster printing reduces wait times for prototypes and allows for quicker iterations, which is beneficial for both hobbyists and professionals.
  • Build Size: The build volume of a printer determines how large an object can be printed in one go. A larger build size allows for more significant projects or multiple smaller items to be printed simultaneously, enhancing efficiency for users with extensive printing needs.
  • User-Friendliness: Features such as intuitive interfaces, automatic bed leveling, and connectivity options like Wi-Fi or USB make a printer easier to use, especially for beginners. A user-friendly design can significantly enhance the printing experience and reduce the learning curve associated with resin 3D printing.

Which Brands Are Leading in the Resin 3D Printer Market?

The leading brands in the resin 3D printer market include:

  • Formlabs: Renowned for its high-quality printers, Formlabs offers the Form series, which is widely used in professional settings.
  • Anycubic: Anycubic is known for its affordability and user-friendly options, making it popular among hobbyists and beginners.
  • Elegoo: Elegoo has gained a strong reputation for producing reliable and cost-effective printers, particularly with its Mars series.
  • Photon (by Anycubic): Focused on high-resolution printing, Photon printers are favored for their precision and detail in small-scale projects.
  • Prusa Research: While primarily known for FDM printers, Prusa has entered the resin market with innovative solutions that emphasize quality and ease of use.

Formlabs: The Form series by Formlabs, particularly the Form 3 and Form 3B, are celebrated for their advanced stereolithography technology, which allows for exceptional print quality. Their printers are often utilized in industries such as dentistry and jewelry, where precision is crucial, and they come with a robust ecosystem of materials and software for enhanced usability.

Anycubic: Anycubic’s range, especially the Anycubic Photon series, is praised for balancing affordability with performance, making it accessible for both newcomers and seasoned users. Their printers typically feature a large build volume and a straightforward setup process, appealing to those who want to dive into resin printing without a steep learning curve.

Elegoo: Elegoo’s Mars series is particularly popular for its reliability and impressive print quality at a lower price point, making it a favorite among hobbyists. These printers often come with intuitive interfaces and community support, which enhances the user experience and helps troubleshoot potential issues.

Photon (by Anycubic): The Photon line from Anycubic is recognized for its high-resolution printing capabilities, which are ideal for detailed miniatures and intricate designs. With user-friendly software and a strong community backing, these printers help users achieve professional-level prints at home.

Prusa Research: Prusa’s entry into the resin market showcases their commitment to quality and innovation, leveraging their experience in FDM technology. Their resin printers are designed with features that simplify the printing process, ensuring that users can achieve reliable results with minimal hassle.

What Are the Main Advantages of Using a Resin 3D Printer?

Material Variety: A wide range of resins is available for different applications, from flexible to rigid materials, allowing users to select the ideal properties for their prints. This versatility makes resin printers suitable for a broad spectrum of industries, including engineering, medicine, and art.

Minimal Post-Processing: Unlike traditional FDM prints, which often require sanding and additional finishing to achieve a smooth surface, resin prints typically emerge from the printer with a polished look and require minimal post-processing. This saves time and effort, making it easier to achieve professional-quality results right out of the printer.

Complex Geometries: The capabilities of resin printing allow for the production of intricate and complex shapes that would be challenging to create with other 3D printing technologies. This feature is particularly valuable in fields such as aerospace and medical device manufacturing, where precision and complexity are paramount.

What Types of Resin Are Ideal for Different Printing Projects?

The best types of resin for 3D printing vary based on the specific requirements of a project, including detail, durability, and application.

  • Standard Resin: This type is designed for general-purpose printing and provides a good balance of detail and ease of use.
  • Durable Resin: Durable resins are formulated to withstand impact and stress, making them ideal for functional prototypes and parts that require greater strength.
  • Flexible Resin: Flexible resins allow for some degree of bending and stretching, which is perfect for creating items that need to be soft or rubber-like, such as grips or seals.
  • High-Temperature Resin: This type is engineered to resist deformation under high temperatures, making it suitable for applications like molds or parts exposed to heat.
  • Castable Resin: Designed for jewelry and dental applications, castable resins burn out cleanly during the casting process, providing precise details for intricate designs.
  • Bio-Compatible Resin: These resins are specifically formulated for medical applications, ensuring safety and compatibility with biological tissues, which is critical for implants and prosthetics.

Standard resin is the go-to option for many hobbyists and beginners due to its affordability and ease of use, providing decent print quality for a variety of projects.

Durable resins, on the other hand, have enhanced toughness, making them suitable for engineering applications where parts may face significant wear and tear, ensuring longevity and reliability.

Flexible resin is a great choice when you need parts that can bend without breaking; it’s commonly used in the production of items like wearables or any components that require some elasticity.

High-temperature resin is crucial for industries that require parts to maintain structural integrity even when exposed to heat, often used in automotive and aerospace applications.

Castable resin is essential for anyone in the jewelry-making or dental industries, as it allows for high fidelity in detail and ensures the final product can be cast without residue.

Bio-compatible resin opens avenues in healthcare and medical research, providing safe materials for creating items that may contact human tissues, thus ensuring patient safety and comfort.

What Challenges Do Users Face with Resin 3D Printers?

Proper storage and handling of resin are vital to maintain its quality and prevent accidents. It is sensitive to light and heat, requiring users to keep it in opaque containers and in cool, dry places, which can add an extra layer of responsibility for users who are new to 3D printing.

What Do Users Think About the Performance of Popular Resin 3D Printers?

  • Elegoo Mars 2 Pro: Many users praise the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro for its high-resolution prints and affordability, making it a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.
  • Anycubic Photon Mono X: Users appreciate the Anycubic Photon Mono X for its speed and larger build volume, allowing for more efficient printing of multiple models at once.
  • Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K: The Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K receives positive feedback for its excellent print quality and rapid layer curing time, which enhances productivity.
  • Creality LD-002R: Users often highlight the Creality LD-002R’s user-friendly interface and reliable performance, making it a good entry-level option for those new to resin printing.
  • Elegoo Saturn: The Elegoo Saturn is noted for its large build plate and impressive detail, appealing to users who require larger prints without compromising quality.

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K stands out to users for its combination of quality and speed, enabling them to achieve intricate details in their prints while also benefiting from quick curing times. This efficiency makes the Mini 4K particularly appealing for those who engage in rapid prototyping or require frequent printing.

The Creality LD-002R is frequently recommended for beginners due to its accessible interface and consistent performance, allowing new users to familiarize themselves with resin printing without frustration. Its reliability and availability of support resources further enhance its appeal for those just starting their 3D printing journey.

The Elegoo Saturn has gained a reputation among users for its ability to produce large, high-quality prints, making it a favored choice for artists and designers. The expansive build plate enables intricate and sizable models to be printed in one go, making it a versatile option for various printing needs.

How Is Resin 3D Printing Technology Evolving for Future Users?

Resin 3D printing technology is evolving rapidly, providing enhanced capabilities and user experiences for future users.

  • Improved Print Speed: Recent advancements in resin 3D printers have significantly increased print speeds, allowing users to produce high-quality models in a fraction of the time compared to earlier technologies.
  • Higher Resolution: The latest resin printers are now capable of achieving finer details with higher resolutions, making them ideal for applications that require intricate designs, such as jewelry and dental models.
  • User-Friendly Interfaces: Modern resin 3D printers come equipped with intuitive touchscreens and software that simplify the printing process, making it easier for novices and experienced users alike to operate and troubleshoot their machines.
  • Eco-Friendly Resins: The development of biodegradable and low-odor resins is becoming more prevalent, allowing for a more sustainable printing process that addresses environmental concerns associated with traditional resin materials.
  • Increased Build Volume: Newer models are being designed with larger build volumes, enabling users to print bigger parts or multiple smaller items simultaneously, enhancing productivity and versatility.
  • Integration with AI and Machine Learning: Some of the latest printers incorporate AI-driven features that optimize the printing process, predict failures, and provide real-time monitoring to ensure high-quality results.
  • Enhanced Material Compatibility: The evolution of resin printing has led to a wider variety of materials that can be used, including flexible, durable, and even castable resins, expanding the applications for which these printers can be utilized.

These advancements are setting the stage for the next generation of resin 3D printers, which will offer users greater efficiency, quality, and adaptability in their printing projects.

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