Best 3d resin printers: Best Resin 3D Printers in 2022

Best resin 3D printers of 2022

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Written By
Steven T. Wright

Updated Nov 1, 2022 2:32 PM

From RPG miniatures to tool prototypes, resin 3D printers have changed the nature of many time-intensive hobbies. While they have a (somewhat unfair) reputation for being unwieldy and expensive, resin printers in recent years have become smaller, cheaper, and surprisingly easy to use. Whether you’re a Warhammer fiend who wants a top-of-the-line machine to print an entire opposing army or just a casual D&D player who wants to dip your toe into the hobby, there’s a model that will work for you. Still, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the options before you commit to anything, as there’s a lot to learn on the hunt for the best resin 3D printer.

Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X
Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K
Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3
Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed
Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max
Best budget: Creality Halot-One

How we picked the best resin 3D printers

As a tech journalist with almost a decade of experience, I know how to determine which products are best for every level of consumer, from entry-level to industrial. I’m also a longtime RPG enthusiast and game-master with my own collection of tokens, so I know what discerning fans are looking for in their 3D printers. In putting together these recommendations, we consulted personal testimonials, consumer reviews, and tests conducted by top-quality professionals to determine which resin 3D printer is right for you, regardless of your priorities.

The best resin 3D printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine which of the above features is more important to you. The following resin 3D printers each excel in one area or another, often in multiple. Regardless of whether or not you plan to go all out for an industrial-grade solution, or save a bundle in order to try crafting for yourself, one of these printers will probably suit your needs.

Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X offers the best vital features per cost of any consumer-grade resin 3D printer out there.

Specs

Build volume: 192mm x 120mm x 250mm
Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
Printing speed: 60mm/h
Printing accuracy: .01mm
XY axis resolution: .05mm
LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
MSRP: $480

Pros

Premium feature set
Reasonable price
Very fast

Cons

Not as easy to use as entry-level models

If you’re looking for the best overall bang for your buck in the resin 3D printer space, the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X is your ticket. Though it’s technically the big brother of true entry-level machines like the Elegoo Mars 3—more on that later—ANYCUBIC is an extremely well-known manufacturer in the space and there are plenty of online tutorials on how to use its devices on enthusiast forums like Reddit.

The Mono X’s feature set is a cut above the usual suspects in the 3D printer game, especially in the build volume department. At 7.5 inches by 4.7 inches by 9.8 inches, the Mono X’s build area is more than big enough for any miniature you’re likely to want to build, except maybe Cthulhu. It also offers fast speeds, 4K resolution, and better Z-axis support than similar models.

Its price may be several hundred dollars more than other options, but in our opinion, the difference is more than worth it.

Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K excels at creating standard miniatures quickly and easily, and it’s not hard to master.

Specs

Build volume: 132mm x 80mm x 165mm
Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
Printing speed: 50mm/h
Printing accuracy: .01mm
XY Axis Resolution: .035mm
LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
MSRP: $250

Pros

Extremely competitive price
Fast, easy to use
Rich online community

Cons

Standard build volume
Touch screen issues

It might be smaller than its big brother, the Mono X, but it still packs a punch. The Mono 4K is the latest model of the ANYCUBIC Photon, one of the original resin 3D printers. Though it’s solidly in the entry-level price of $250 to $300, the Mono 4K is extremely similar to the X in terms of feature set.

The 4K’s great resolution and standard build volume make it a very good option for users who want to make a large number of standard miniatures without much fuss. It’s quite easy to set up even for newbies and its compact size means that it can sit on a small end table without calling a lot of attention to itself. At 50mm an hour max speed, the 4K will spit out miniatures very quickly once you get it set up, which is quite easy thanks to its online popularity.

If you’re an average user who wants to build an army of detailed orcs as fast as possible without breaking the bank, the Mono 4K is a great option.

Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3

Why it made the cut: Arguably the most famous resin 3D printer out there, the Elegoo Mars 3 is a great option for both beginners and experts alike.

Specs

Build volume: 143mm x 89mm x 175mm
Resolution: 4098×2560 (4K)
Printing speed: 50mm/h
Printing accuracy: .01mm
XY axis resolution: .035mm
LCD: 6.66 inch Mono
MSRP: $380

Pros

Very popular and intuitive
Good resolution
Slightly larger build volume

Cons

Somewhat expensive for what it is

As the follow-up to arguably the most popular resin printer of the last few years, the Mars 2, the Mars 3 has big shoes to fill. In fact, if you search “resin 3D printer” on any search engine, the Mars 3 will probably be the first one to show up. Overall, the Mars 3 lives up to its reputation as the easiest resin printer to use out there, and it offers a robust feature set, too.

The Mars 3’s specs are a little bit better than its main competitor, the Mono 4K, in almost every meaningful category, especially its build volume. However, reviews suggest that it’s not quite as fast as the Mono 4K over time. However, due to its popularity, you can find an absolutely ridiculous number of tutorials on Reddit and YouTube on how to use the Mars 3, and that’s what gives it a slight edge in the “beginner-friendly” department.

Overall, the Mars 3 is comparable in price to more premium resin 3D printers, but its ease of use and reputation make it worth a purchase, especially if you’re intimidated by the hobby as a whole.

Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed Bundle

Prusa

Check Price

Why it made the cut: The Prusa SL1S Speed might be expensive but it’s the choice for resin-crafters who want to turn their hobby into a serious side hustle.

Specs

Build volume: 127mm x 80mm x 150mm
Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
Printing speed: 1. 3 to 2.4 seconds per layer
Printing accuracy: .01mm
XY axis resolution: .049mm
LCD: 5.96 inch Mono
MSRP: $2,000

Pros

Extremely fast
Truly professional-grade
Supports easy post-processing

Cons

Very expensive
Some dated features

In the world of resin 3D printing, there are hobbyists, and there are small businesses. If you’re looking to make a serious buck selling your miniatures or other products on a storefront like Etsy—and you already have some experience with resin printing—the Prusa S1LS Speed is a strong option. Thanks to its vat tilting support and ultra-fast scanning speed, the Prusa is suitable for both precise industrial work (such as dental molds) and cranking out miniatures as fast as possible. Testing suggests it’s nearly double the speed of the Mars 3, for example.

However, you get what you pay for. At $2,000, the SL1S Speed is about eight times more expensive than an entry-level resin printer like the Mars 3. While that is certainly quite a pill to swallow, this is a “prosumer” model that’s intended to compete with industrial scanners in the $5k to $6k range. (You can even get it bundled with the CW1S, a curing and washing machine that makes post-processing much more efficient.) For a $2,000 machine, you could certainly argue that the SL1S’s lack of 4K support and small build volume are major stumbling blocks, but many small businesses aren’t going to miss those features compared to the volume it can spit out.

If you’re in the market for a high-end resin printer, the SL1S Speed is a great option. It’s definitely not suitable for your average consumer, however.

Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max

Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max is a high-end resin 3D printer that supports massive builds at a fairly reasonable price.

Specs

Build volume: 300mm x 298mm x 164mm
Resolution: 6480×3600 (6K)
Printing speed: 60mm/hr
Printing accuracy: .01mm
XY axis resolution: .040mm
LCD: 13.6 inch Mono
MSRP: $1,300

Pros

Incredible build volume
Very high resolution
Massive screen

Cons

Large and unwieldy
Expensive

If “bigger is better” is your favorite mantra, the Photon M3 Max might be the resin 3D printer for you. Boasting a ridiculous foot-tall build volume and better than 6K resolution, this is a machine that can print a heck of a final boss for your D&D campaign. It’s also surprisingly speedy for its size, posting significantly better build times than smaller alternatives like the Mars 3 and the Photon 4K Mono.

However, its size has some downsides. The Photon M3 Max weighs more than 57 pounds, it has a much larger footprint than entry-level models, and its ultra-large builds are going to cost you a small fortune in resin. Also, its rated power of 120 watts is almost double that of smaller models, so watch that electricity bill. Its price point of $1,300 is definitely a step up from other printers, but considering everything it brings to the table, it’s fairly reasonable.

Overall, the Photon M3 Max is a serious machine for serious hobbyists and you probably already know if it’s the right resin 3D printer for you. If you’re in the market for a more newbie-friendly machine, you should look to its smaller cousins.

Best budget: Creality HALOT-ONE

Why it made the cut: The Creality HALOT-ONE is the perfect starter machine for price-conscious customers who want to try out a new hobby.

Specs

Build volume: 130mm x 82mm x 160mm
Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
Printing speed: 1-4 seconds per layer
Printing accuracy: . 01mm
XY axis resolution: .050mm
LCD: 5-inch Mono
MSRP: $200

Pros

Ultra-low price
Decent specs

Cons

Can get better features for $100+ more

When you consider that even the cheapest 3D printers cost $400 to $500 only a few years ago, the $200 price tag of the Creality HALOT-ONE is pretty staggering to consider. But while it’s definitely a budget model, the HALOT-ONE has a robust feature set that’s perfect for fresh hobbyists or beginners looking to cut their teeth in the 3D printing game. Its 2K resolution is more than enough for most projects, and its standard build volume can fit a standard miniature. It’s not the biggest or the fastest, but for many users, the price probably matters more.

The main argument against the HALOT-ONE is that you can get 4K resolution and significantly faster speed from a Mars 3 or Mono 4K for around $100 to $150 more. However, that might be the difference in purchasing a resin printer or not if you’re on a tight budget, so it’s ultimately up to you to decide whether those features are worth it to you.

The HALOT-ONE is a nice little machine, and its price can’t be beaten. For many budding hobbyists, it’s a great place to start.

Things to consider before buying a resin 3D printer

Buying a 3D printer can be pretty intimidating, especially if you don’t know much about the hobby. The best resin 3D printers cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000, so one is not a casual pickup. Before making your purchase, you’ll need to consider what exactly you want to use it for, as that will have a big impact on what printer you choose. For example, if you’re planning on creating large miniatures or tool prototypes, you will need a printer with a larger build volume. You’ll also need to decide what level of detail you need from the printer, as that has a big impact on its cost. While a 4K capable printer is fairly affordable these days, 6K will raise the price substantially.

Regardless of what printer you ultimately buy, you’ll need to determine how comfortable you are working with resin, as you’ll need special tools and gear (such as a UV light and nitrate gloves) as part of your production process. If you’re willing to shell out, you can buy a washing-and-curing machine, like the Elegoo Mercury, in order to save yourself some legwork. Finally, you’ll need to reckon with the fact that resin itself is a lot more expensive than the alternatives, such as filament. However, the final product is more than worth it.

Size matters

Build volume is a measure of how large a product a resin 3D printer can produce. For example, a common build volume is about 5.5 inches by 3.5 inches by 7 inches, which is well within the typical range of a Dungeons & Dragons miniature. If you’re looking to make something bigger than that, you will need to purchase a printer with a large (or even extra-large) build volume. Generally speaking, printers with large build volumes require a bit more fiddling (and can be more prone to user error) than their standard-volume equivalents, but you can learn the ropes with a bit of effort.

4K, 6K, or 8K, oh my

The resolution of the 3D printer’s LCD will determine the level of detail it can inscribe on your beautiful miniatures. A 4K printer is considered the standard these days for all but ultra-budget models, and it’s more than sufficient for most projects. Still, if you want those details to really sing, you may want to consider a 6K (or even 8K!) option.

Mono is better than RGB

Yes, it may seem counterintuitive, but a 3D printer with monochrome LCD masking is better than one with RGB (or color) LCD masking. Monos are better at letting the UV light pass through than their colored alternatives, which means that each layer is scanned that much faster. RGB 3D printers are cheaper than monos, but even mono printers are fairly affordable these days. As such, unless your budget is extremely constrained, we recommend you get a mono, as they’re between 3-5x faster on average.

FAQs

Q: What’s the highest resolution resin 3D printer?

The current highest resolution resin printer on the market is the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K and the Mega 8K. However, while they have great resolution, both of these printers have significantly worse consumer reviews than the above picks, which is why it did not make the cut.

Q: Can you reuse resin from failed prints?

Unfortunately, no, you can’t. Once the resin has been hardened, it will remain hard forever. You cannot melt it down and reuse it like you can with a filament 3D printer.

Q: Is resin printing toxic?

While resin printers are perfectly safe to use, you must use caution, especially when you’re first starting with the hobby. Yes, untreated resin is toxic to the touch—you must use nitrate gloves while handling it. You should also wear safety glasses or goggles when working with the machine to avoid eye damage from splashing.

Q: How long can a resin print sit before cleaning it?

Provided that it’s kept away from UV light—and from any action that might break it, such as a pet—a resin print can sit for as long as you need before curing or cleaning it. However, you should not get in the habit of leaving them lying around, as they can easily break.

Q: Are resin prints stronger than PLA?

No, resin prints are more brittle and breakable than their filament counterparts. However, resin as a material allows for far more detail than filament, so it’s a better choice for RPG miniatures and the like.

Final thoughts on the best resin 3D printers

3D printing is one of the fastest-growing hobbies out there and, while there’s certainly a learning curve, it won’t take you long to make the wizard of your D&D dreams. In general, newbies to resin 3D printers should stick to well-known brand names like Elegoo and ANYCUBIC due to their very large online communities and tutorial support. It might seem intimidating, but if you work at it, it’s not as hard as it looks.

Best Resin 3D Printers in November 2022 (Every Price Range)

Resin 3D printers are more affordable than ever – you can now pick up a great quality resin printer with a 4K LCD screen for just a few hundred dollars. So if you’re a home maker who wants to make detailed miniatures for your next game, or have more professional ambitions, it’s never been easier.

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MSLA (masked stereolithography) 3D printers have taken over the low-cost space, using LCD screens to cure resin models based on your sliced STL file.

With 2K, 4K, and even up to 8K LCD screen quality available under $1,000, and sub-35-micron resolution becoming increasingly common, with the right settings you can create incredible-looking miniature models, as well as key uses in jewelry molds and in the dental industry.

Here are our top picks for 4K, 6K, and 8K screens:

BUDGET PICK

Anycubic Photon M3

High quality 4K resolution for low price

Larger build volume than Photon Mono 4K and Elegoo Mars 3

Available at:

Anycubic here

MID-RANGE PICK

Anycubic Mono X 6K

Higher-quality 6K LCD screen

Much larger print area for printing many minis in one job

Available at:

Anycubic here

PREMIUM PICK

Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K

Extremely high-res 8K LCD screen with 22-micron accuracy

Reasonable price for the quality

Available at:

Phrozen here

We’ve split our recommendations into the best cheap resin 3D printers with recommendations for $200, $300, $500, and $700, as well as recommending a couple of clear winners for professional resin 3D printers if you’re looking to start a business or scale things up.

The Best Resin 3D Printers 2022 – Reviews

Resin printer	Price	Best price at	Alternative
Elegoo Mars 2 Pro / 3	$200-349	Elegoo here	Amazon here
Anycubic Photon M3	$300	Anycubic here
Anycubic Mono X 6K	$639	Anycubic here
Elegoo Saturn	$499	Elegoo here	Amazon here
Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K	$799	Phrozen Store here
Prusa SL1S Speed	$1,999	Prusa Store here
Formlabs Form 3	$3,499	Dynamism store here

The best resin 3D printers, prices, and where to buy.

Best Cheap Resin 3D Printers (Under $1,000)

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Elegoo Mars 2 Pro / Mars 3

BUDGET PICK

Elegoo Mars 2 Pro

Print Volume: 129 x 80 x 160 mm

Screen size: 6. 08″ 2K Monochrome LCD

XY Resolution: 50 microns

Speed: 30-50 mm/h

Cleaning/Curing: Elegoo Mercury Plus/X

Available at:

Elegoo hereAmazon here

PREMIUM PICK

Elegoo Mars 3

Print Volume: 143 x 90 x 175 mm

Screen resolution: 6.6″ 4K LCD

XY Resolution: 35 microns

Speed: 1.5-3 seconds per layer

Cleaning/Curing: Elegoo Mercury Plus/X

Available at:

Elegoo hereMatterhackers hereAmazon here

While there are newer Mars printers like the Mars 3 and brand-new Elegoo Mars 3 Pro, the Mars 2 Pro still offers great quality if you’re on a budget. It features the revamped z-axis linear guide system for smoother layers and better surface areas.An accurate dinosaur head we 3D printed on the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro.Clank video game 3D print on the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro.

But for those looking for more precise detailing on their miniatures or other prints, consider upgrading to the Mars 3 range.

Whereas the Mars 2 Pro has a 6.08-inch 2K LCD, the Mars 3 and Mars 3 Pro both have 6.6-inch 4K screens, improving XY resolution from 50 microns to 35 microns – a 30% accuracy improvement.

You also get a 37% larger build volume: 143 x 90 x 175mm on the Mars 3, vs the 129 x 80 x 160 mm. This is ideal for printing a number of models at once to save time, and for printing larger models that might not quite have fit into the Mars 2 Pro’s build area.

So if you’re on a tight budget, the Mars 2 Pro is still a fine choice – we’ve printed some great detailing in our dinosaur head’s teeth, and in video game miniatures. But, for sharper accuracy and larger build areas, upgrade to the Mars 3, or Mars 3 Pro.

Read our full review: we tested the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro

Compared: Elegoo Mars 2 Pro and 3 vs Elegoo Saturn

Anycubic Photon M3

Price: Check latest price at Anycubic here
Build Volume: 180 x 163 x 102 mm
XY Resolution: 40 microns
Minimum Layer Height: 10 microns
Speed: 50mm/h

The latest entry-level Photon 3D printer, the Anycubic Photon M3 takes everything we loved about the series – fast print times, excellent resolution, and a user-friendly printing experience – and levels it up with a few choice enhancements.

Among the improvements, Anycubic has upgraded to a 180 x 163 x 102 mm build volume, which lends itself to larger prints along with the superb high detail models and miniatures the Mono 4K is known for, even intricate articulated figurines.

Another benefit of the build volume is the possibility of producing bigger batches of the same Warhammer or D&D mini-figures, ideal if you’re hoping to use your M3 to fuel a small business.

Though the Anycubic Photon M3 includes an excellent 7.6″ 4K monochrome screen, the resolution drops slightly to 40 microns – 5 microns higher than the Mono 4K. For us, this is a reasonable compromise for the extra printing space.

At this level of detail, you’d be hard-pressed to notice any tangible difference between the two resolutions, so the larger screen and print area is worth the drop to us – though you can opt for the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K if you prefer 35 micron resolution and a smaller build volume.

It’s cheap, user-friendly, and creates feature-rich, detailed 4K parts, models, figurines, and minis.

Larger build volume and 4K LCD screen than the Photon Mono 4K.

Low cost, high quality

Perfect if you’re looking to print larger minis faster, and several at once.

Cons

40-micron resolution vs 35 microns on the Mono 4K – though you’ll probably not notice the difference.

Anycubic Mono X 6K

Price: Check latest price at Anycubic here
Build Volume: 197 x 122 x 245 mm
XY Resolution: 34 microns
Minimum Layer Height: 10 microns
Speed: 80 mm/h

The Anycubic Mono X 6K allows makers to craft exceptionally detailed 6K prints at 34 microns XY resolution without sacrificing build volume (or vice versa), which inches close to standard FDM printer sizes at 197 x 122 x 245mm. A max print speed of 80 mm/h also prints the most complex minis and models at a blistering pace.

If you’re not constrained by a tight budget and want some of the best quality offered by any consumer-grade printer, there’s no question the Anycubic Mono X 6K is a sensible buy. The same goes for those piecing together the kit needed to take a budding minis business to the next level.

But, for those restricted to a smaller budget, the original Mono X and the even lower-cost M3 are perfect for those that want to print high-quality minis without breaking the bank. The trade-offs are smaller build volume, slightly lower resolutions, and longer print times – nothing that should hamper the majority of hobbyist resin projects.

Market leading print quality.

Reasonably priced for the specs it offers.

Cons

Average build volume.

Elegoo Saturn

Price: Check latest price at Elegoo here / Available on Amazon here
Print Volume: 192 x 120 x 200 mm
Screen resolution: 3840 x 2400 pixels
Screen size: 8. 9″ 4K Monochrome LCD
XY Resolution: 50 microns
Speed: 30-40mm/h
Cleaning/Curing: Elegoo Mercury Plus/X Washing and Curing Station

Featuring an 8.9-inch 4K monochrome LCD screen for fast layer curing, the Elegoo Saturn comes much upgraded on standard models, printing 60% faster than the Elegoo Mars Pro, printing a layer every 2-3 seconds.

For your money, you get a number of other key upgrades, most notably the larger build area, turning the Elegoo Saturn into a solid resin 3D printer for larger resin models or terrain for miniatures, as well as for printing more minis in one batch and taking advantage of resin printers’ abilities to print entire layers at once.

The improved precision, owing to the Saturn’s double linear guideway Z-axis structure makes it steadier than ever, ensuring accuracy and uniformity across the print.

If this isn’t enough, you have two upgrade options:

Elegoo Saturn S: a slight improvement across the board, with an 9. 1” 4K LCD, and a slight build volume increase to 196 x 122 x 210 mm
Elegoo Saturn 2: upgrades to a 10” 8K LCD, 28.5nm XY resolution, and a larger 219 x 123 x 250 mm build area.

	Elegoo Saturn	Elegoo Saturn S	Elegoo Saturn 2
LCD Quality	8.9″ 4K LCD	9.1″ 4K LCD	10″ 8K LCD
Build Volume	192 x 120 x 200 mm	196 x 122 x 210 mm	219 x 123 x 250 mm
XY Resolution	50 microns	48 microns	28.5 microns
	Buy here	Buy here	Preorder here

Elegoo Saturn vs Saturn S vs Saturn 2

Read more: Elegoo Saturn vs Anycubic Mono X – compared

Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K

Price: Check latest price at Phrozen here
Build Volume: 165 x 72 x 180 mm
XY Resolution: 22 microns
Minimum Layer Height: 10 microns
Speed: 80 mm/h

Phrozen’s flagship resin printer capitalizes on a sleek 7. 1″ LCD screen and 22-micron resolution to deliver frankly outstanding print detail and surface quality that more budget-priced printers simply can’t provide.

As consumer printers go, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K has the potential to produce the most intricate, detail-rich models of any printers currently on the market.

The jump from a 2K, and even a 4K/6K, to an 8K screen is apparent when scrutinizing a print fresh off the Mini 8K bed. This is the main reason it out-classes Phrozen’s excellent budget Sonic Mini 4K, albeit with a hefty but warranted price increase.

For lots of makers, the jump in quality won’t be enough to justify spending more than double the price of a Photon or Mars, but the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K fleshes out the proposition with superb all-around usability and a decent 165 x 72 x 180 mm build volume.

If that’s not quite enough for your larger print projects or you’re looking to batch print to stock an online mini store, there’s always the Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8K, and its 123 x 218 x 235 mm printable area.

Market leading print quality.

Reasonably priced for the specs it offers.

Cons

Average build volume.

Best Desktop Resin 3D Printers (Between $1,000 and $3,000)

Prusa SL1S Speed

Price: $1,999 — Available at Prusa Store here
Print Volume: 120 x 68 x 150 mm
Screen resolution: 2560 x 1620 pixels
Screen size: 5.96” 2K Monochrome LCD
XY Resolution: 47 microns
Print Speed: 50mm/h
Cleaning/Curing: Original Prusa CW1S

Prusa printers are known for being the best open-source FDM kits around, but have since ventured into resin printing.

One thing we really want to drive home is how important it is not to get tunnel vision when looking at the specs of printers when choosing which to buy. As we explain in the buyer’s guide portion below, a well-made printer made from high-quality parts that can handle precise movements and stability will outperform a printer with a higher-spec LCD screen but worse build quality.

The 5.96” monochrome LCD is smaller than some lower-priced printers like the Elegoo Saturn 2, but it is capable of fantastic accuracy, even for tiny miniature models smaller than a penny. It’s made from high-quality parts to minimize vibrations, with a rigid aluminum body, and features a quick release mechanism to maintain z-axis calibration.

It’s also super fast, with 1.4-second layer exposures even on standard 405nm resins. If you’re a small business owner looking to produce minis at scale, or just want to print lots of models for yourself, the SL1S Speed suits you well.

You can buy the printer on its own, or as a bundle with the CW1S 4-in-1 wash and cure machine. It pre-heats your resin before use, washes resin prints, dries them off, and cures them, all in one add-on. The bundle is available here.

Professional Resin 3D Printers ($3,000+)

Formlabs Form 3 — best professional resin 3D printer

Price: $3,499 — Available on Dynamism Store here
Build Volume: 145 x 145 x 185 mm
XY Resolution: 25 microns
Print speed: 70mm/h
Cleaning/Curing: Formlabs Form Wash & Cure

Formlabs make professional resin 3D printers, but at desktop resin printer prices. The US manufacturer sells the Form 3 SLA 3D printer for $3,499, with its quality making it key for super accurate prototypes, as well as being adopted in the dental and jewelry industries.

The Form 3 comes with a huge variety of new features as compared with the previous Form 2. It comes with new LFS technology advantages as well as a new Light Processing Unit (LPU) to improve resin part surface finishes, as well as better layer registrations. The Form 2 was already fantastic, and these added features elevate the Form 3 to a whole new dimension within desktop SLA printers.

Additionally, the Formlabs Form 3 has an automated resin system and uses smart cartridges that automatically fill the resin tank – key for business owners looking to maximize efficiency and revenue per hour.

In addition, it has a scanning system for the resin tray after each layer, and automatically adjusts based on the type of resin used. Furthermore, its got a fantastic touch screen and can be operated remotely via a WiFi connection, as well as operable as part of a factory with Formlabs’ industrial multi-printer ‘Form Cell’ solutions.

This UV 3D resin 3D printer has a print volume of 145 x 145 x 185 mm, and is extremely precise with 25-micron XY resolution. The Formlabs Form 3 is compatible with a large number of resins, from ceramic, to flexible resins, to castable resins, though Formlabs also sell their own high-quality resin materials.Formlabs resins are available here.

Curing and Cleaning Stations

With washing and curing an unavoidable part of resin 3D printing, we’ve rounded up a few choice washing and curing stations well worth weaving into your printing setup to take some of the sting and mess out of post-processing.

Anycubic Wash & Cure

Available at Anycubic Store here / Amazon here

The Anycubic Wash & Cure is an all-in-one station compatible with the overwhelming majority of resin printers. Thanks to a nifty recent price cut from Anycubic, the Wash & Cure sets you back under $100.

The wash mode has adjustable wash cycles, including 2, 4, and 6 minutes. Cure mode employs a wide range 356 nm and 405 nm UV light set mounted on a 360° rotating platform to ensure a uniform cure of all and any print sized at 115 x 65 x 165 mm and under.

Anycubic has simplified the whole wash and cure process thanks to a set-and-forget design – choose either wash or cure on the touch button interface, and off it goes. The station blocks 99.95% of UV light and comes with an auto-pause function if the cover inadvertently comes off. The station has an adjustable bracket that can latch onto an Anycubic build platform if you’re working with a Photon Mono series printer.

Elegoo Mercury Plus

Available at Amazon here

Another all-in-one station, but this time from Elegeoo, the Elegoo Mercury Plus is an easy-to-use option for hands-free post-processing.

The accepted max print size is 125 x 85 x 160 mm for washing and 140 x 165 mm for curing. You can either use the provided cleaning basket or mount an Elegoo build plate with models still attached, making it compatible with most if not all resin 3D printers, not just with Elegoo machines.

A 385 nm and 405 nm UV light set and 360-degree rotating curing turntable do all the curing work with the option to key in and monitor curing time up to 30 minutes on the TFT touchscreen. Safety’s covered with an anti-UV lid that blocks 99.95% of UV rays and a suspend operation function should the cover come off during curing.

Expect to pay more than the Anycubic station, but at roughly $120, you’ll deck out your resin 3D printing setup with a quality mess-free station.

Buyer’s Guide – What to Consider When Buying a 3D Resin Printer

RGB vs Mono LCD Screens – Pick a Mono Resin 3D Printer

Most modern resin printers now ship with monochrome LCD screens instead of the RGB variants found in earlier models.

The shift is all to the benefit of makers as monochrome screens have many advantages over RGB:

They print faster, often up to 3x quicker
They are more durable, lasting up to 4-5x longer before replacing

LCD Screen Resolution: 2K, 4K, 6K, 8K – What Quality Do You Need?

Raw specs do translate to better quality overall. You will notice the difference in sharpness on corners, and on precise features of models such as facial features and hair on an 8K screen versus a 4K or 2K print.4K vs 8K resin printed miniature. Source: Geek Gaming Scenics

However, while a higher resolution makes a clear difference to print results, even the highest resolution 3D printer will not perform as well as a lower-res 2K screen if it is built from low-quality parts.

Therefore, buy from a reputable brand known for making high-quality parts, such as well-built screws and z-axis parts for the build plate, and resin vat screws, to deliver top quality.

We recommend resin printers from Anycubic, Elegoo, and Phrozen for hobbyist printing, and Prusa and Formlabs for professional resin printing.

Build Volume

As a general rule, resin printers feature smaller build volumes than more common FDM machines, hence why makers and professionals use them to create small intricate parts with high precision.

If you do need extra printing space for duplicate part printing or larger figurines and models, consider larger format resin printers such as the Peopoly Phenom and Phrozen Sonic Mighty 4K.

Post-Processing Equipment

Resin 3D printing is a messy business, and post-processing is a core part of the printing process. Post-processing breaks down into two parts, washing and curing.

Washing involves removing any residual uncured resin from the print using isopropanol.

Curing uses further UV light source slexposure to complete the curing polymerization process to improve the part’s finish and overall rigidity.

Self-guided, hands-on post-processing is one way to go, but manufacturers now propose all-in-one washing and curing stations to take much of the messy hassle out of the process.

How Does a Resin 3D Printer Work?

Resin is sticky, liquid, and moves around in any container (or resin vat) that you pour it into. However, take that container outside, and the sun’s UV rays will almost immediately cure and solidify the resin.

Your resin printer’s LCD screen uses the same UV light as the sun but in a more stable indoor environment, flashing light at certain parts of the resin to selectively cure parts, based on your model’s features.

The LCD screen blocks off the LEDs from certain parts so that the resin isn’t cured in some places – only where your model file is sliced to be.

The screen sits under the resin vat, and projects light upwards into the build platform. An FEP screen (fluorinated ethylene propylene) protects the screen from damage – though these FEP films themselves need to be replaced more often than any other parts of the printer.

As each layer is cured, the resin printer’s z-axis platform, lifts up one layer, for the next resin layer to be cured. The cured model sticks to the build platform as it moves up out of the resin (if it sticks to the resin, the print fails), with the layer on the edge cured and moved up each time.

Resin 3D Printing Tips for Beginners:

Check the MSDS (material safety data sheet) for the resin you’re using – all reputable resin manufacturers will have these sheets. They outline any potential hazards, and how you can keep safe and prevent these issues.

Print in a relatively warm environment – room temperature is fine, but if resin gets too cold it become more viscous and difficult to print.

Wear gloves when handling resin – nitrile rubber disposable gloves work well.

Pick the best slicer for you – if you use a certain brand such as Prusa, you’ll likely use Prusa Slicer. For simple everyday use, CHITUBOX is fine, but other options for great resin results include Lychee Slicer. We have a full run-down of resin slicers here.

Take care over supports – within your slicer, take care over how you position your model, and the supports you use. Flat printed models don’t work as well as they do in FDM, as you can damage the resin print scraping it off – though there are workarounds with sacrificial rafts. Generally, lift the model off the bed and have supports between the bottom raft and the FEP sheet. If you’re technical, there is a very powerful tool called UVTools which automatically detects likely errors, resin traps and islands, and with one click fixes them all. It is available at Github here. It acts as a kind of previewer, showing you where potentials for print failure are, so you can avoid the costly failed prints, and optimize them automatically.

How Much is a Resin 3D Printer?

Good cheap resin 3D printers start at around $200, with either a 2K or 4K screen that can still print precise features on miniature models. 6K and 8K screen resin printers cost from $600 to $1000+, and professional resin 3D printers from companies like Formlabs cost $3500 and up.

Uses of resin 3D printers

Budget resin 3D printers are typically used by hobbyists to make accurate figures and miniatures at details FDM printers just cannot reach. They’re commonly used for 28mm miniatures, D&D figures, and other similar projects for tabletop models.

See also: our buyer’s guide for the best 3D printers for miniatures.

However, these low cost options can sometimes be used for creating wax molds for jewelry casting. For better quality casting with precious metals however it is recommended to use a more professional resin 3D printer capable of better resolutions and precision.

See also: our guide to the best jewelry 3D printers.

Resin printers are commonly used in the dental, audiology, jewelry, and medical industries. For example, within dentistry resin 3D printers can print orthodontic models and implants, and within audiology, almost 100% of custom hearing aids are now 3D printed.

See also: 3D printing in the dental industry.

See also: how 3D printed hearing aids took over the world.

Is Resin Printing Messy?

Though the resin printing process isn’t messy per se, the post-processing of a finished resin print invariably descends into a frustrating, sloppy, not to say potentially harmful mess of dripping resin and pungent isopropanol. It isn’t for the faint of heart or those wary of getting stuck in.

Fortunately, curing and cleaning stations help contain resin processing’s messiness, so you’re not caking your hands in muck by juddering your prints around in a vat of isopropanol.

FAQs

What are the best resin 3D printer brands?

For the home resin 3D printing $200-600 range, the best resin 3D printer brands are Anycubic, Elegoo and Phrozen, who make high-quality printers capable of accurate details. In the professional resin printer range, Prusa, Formlabs and Peopoly are well-reputed, as well as industrial brands like 3D Systems, Carbon 3D and EnvisionTEC.

Is it worth getting a resin 3D printer?

Resin 3D printers can print incredible-looking details for miniatures that FDM simply can’t compete with, so for anything precise and detailed, resin printers can’t be beaten. However, if you want a simpler printing experience without washing or curing prints, or want to print large-scale models, go for an FDM 3D printer instead.

Do You Need To Wash and Cure Resin Prints?

Yes. The resin printing process leaves uncured residual resin on the finished part. Rinsing off the excess resin ensures all the detail and finish of the print remain accurate once you move to the curing process. There’s also a safety concern; washing resin prints removes potentially toxic uncured liquid resin, so you can handle the part safely.

Curing is an equally important part of the process. When a printer completes a part, the resin is in a transitory state: hard enough to retain the desired shape and detail but lacking overall rigidity, making it prone to scratches, scarring, and blemishes. By curing the print with UV, or even sunlight if you’ve got time on your side, the resin reaches its optimal, finished state.

If you liked this ranking, you may also like:

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3DSourced’s Overall Top 20 Best 3D Printers
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Best resin curing stations

Top 5 Resin 3D Printers (2021 Review)

Resin 3D printer produces highly reliable prints using SLA, LCD or DLP technology. It cures UV resin and turns liquid into high quality 3D models at a faster rate.

To go into more detail, stereolithography (SLA) is the earliest form of resin 3D printing, which works by adding a light sensitive liquid resin substrate to a UV laser beam. The resin is then cured to the desired pattern and the product is formed layer by layer to completion.

On the other hand, when we talk about digital light processing (DLP), we mean the process of projecting one image in each layer with a digital projector by emitting UV radiation. And with the advent of LCD technology, resin 3D printing with LCD screen is becoming predominant in the 3D printing industry today. Since the LCD screen acts as a mask over the UV light source, it is sometimes referred to as MSLA (masked stereolithography).

Having said that, getting the right resin 3D printer has never been easier with so many brands and models available on the market. So, to help you on your buying journey, we’ve provided the top five resin 3D printers, along with advice from our technical experts and 3D printer enthusiasts, to give you the most important information before you buy.

Just click the buttons below that we have prepared for you to view their best deals on Amazon. That being said, we hope you find the best resin 3D printer to suit your next printing project in the future!

The best polymer 3D printers in comparison and rating

Mars 3 Mono MSLA

Smol 3D printers	Features		1. 3D-ONETROM	8. 9-inch monochrome LCD 4K High print speed 60 mm per hour Short time of exposure 1.5-2 seconds
durable CNC machined aluminum housing supports 12 different languages 6.08 inch 2K HD monochrome LCD0160 Workshop Anycubic Photon

Quality and accuracy

Functions

Ease in use

Plus :

It has a large assembly of 192 mm x 120 mm X 24 mm, that allows us to maximize our creativity and imagination.
Offers an 8. 9-inch 4K monochrome LCD display with a resolution of 3840 x 2400 pixels, which can return print information to its original form, and has a lifespan of up to 2000 hours.
Has a short exposure time of 1.5-2 seconds and delivers a high print speed of 60mm per hour, which is 3 times faster than a standard 3D printer.
Features a dual effect cooling system specially designed for consistent print performance and longevity.
Uses a UV LED matrix to distribute light more evenly throughout the print.
Comes with a dual Z-axis that prevents Z-axis wobble and improves printing efficiency.
Has Wi-Fi connectivity for remote monitoring of print operations.

Cons:

The firmware is unstable, but this can be fixed by updating it.
Vapors seem very smelly, so a more well ventilated print shop is required.

Final take:

This ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X resin 3D printer revolutionized resin 3D printing. It impressed us during the testing process as it printed consistently at 3 x 192 x 120 mm. It has a monochrome LCD in the center as well as a 245K resolution panel with 4 micron pixel size (XY). We printed with a thickness of 50mm and were impressed by the quality of the print, which perfectly brings out important and small details. The slicer program is simple but accurate. So far, the auto support feature has been reliable because we haven’t had missed or failed prints due to insufficient support. The Z-axis is indeed a thread-height bar, while the plastic tank is anodized aluminum, so we’ve never experienced any Z-axis wobble before this entry. It also features a brushed aluminum platform that improves the adhesion between the platform and prints, as well as its design and durability. Ultimately, this ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X 05D Resin Printer is an excellent entry-level resin UV printer with exceptional print efficiency. We were blown away by its printing capabilities and we can’t say enough about the print quality!

30-50 mm per hour

SLISER software

Chitaboks

Equal for use

Simplication in use

simplicity in the use Pros of :

Features a COB UV LED light source that emits more stable UV light, and a 2K monochrome LCD display, which greatly improves printing performance and accuracy.
Comes with a 6.08-inch 2K HD monochrome LCD, which has a much longer life and high stability in long-term printing.
It only takes 2 seconds to apply cured resin to one layer, which can greatly improve print quality.
Features a durable CNC machined aluminum body and its state of the art sandblasted build plate also has excellent adhesion throughout the print for more reliable printing.
Supports 12 different languages, allowing customers from all over the world to easily use this 3D printer. (Japanese, Dutch, Korean, French, German, Russian, Italian, Spanish, Turkish and Portuguese).
Offers a replacement resin tank made from a special engineering plastic that is environmentally friendly and biodegradable.

Cons:

The slicer app is a little hard to use.

Final take:

The ELEGOO Mars 3 Mono MSLA 2D printer is among the most affordable 3D printers we have seen so far. It features a monochrome LCD, COB UV light source and a 6.08-inch 2K HD LCD. We printed everything from industrial parts to board game mini-games with a build volume of 129mm x 80mm x 150mm. Compared to RGB LCD 3D printers, it has four times the shelf life and twice the print speed, making it one of the most powerful, reliable and maintenance free resin 3D printers. In the process of testing the transparent resin, we set at least 8 seconds per layer at a height of 0.05 mm, and it showed outstanding consistency. Also, at 11-12 seconds for opaque resins per 0.05mm layer, the prints from this 3D printer are really beautiful and flawless. We had a great time with this ELEGOO Mars 3 Mono MSLA 2D Printer as it is incredibly easy to operate while in use and comes with amazing support. In addition, it creates amazing objects with stunning detail and resolution.

30 mm/h

Slicer software

Longer in-house developed slicing software. CHITUBOX4

Quality and accuracy of

Functions

Simplication in use

Plus :

also supported an increetized LCD-3D prisoner with a faster. and finer details compared to FDM printers.
Comes with an advanced UV LED module that provides specialized optical path configuration and even power distribution to help improve prototype accuracy and print performance.
Has a self-developed slicing program that creates a 100 MB slicing file in one minute, which is three times faster than others.
Features 24 parallel LEDs for improved print efficiency, cure speed, layer adhesion support, and consistent light output compared to other printers.
Features a full color touch screen interface, real-time display and monitoring of print status, fast bed leveling, strong steel body, strong adhesion, and a temperature warning system for greater safety.

Cons:

We are a little limited in the printing area because it is a little small.

Final take:

This Longer Orange 3 Resin SLA 10D printer is one of the most iconic SLA 3D printers available and is a great entry level LCD light curing device. Assembly takes minimal time as we were able to start printing within minutes of unboxing and the entire process took only 15 minutes. The self-developed slicing program is incredibly easy to use and very fast. We printed 28mm high mock-ups which took about 3 hours to complete. One thing to note when printing with resin is that the printing process is proportional to the height of the model, meaning that it takes the same amount of time to print six models as it takes to print one model. It produces highly accurate prints and can print complex models such as miniatures including accessories. Ultimately, there is no doubt about its effectiveness, because it produces quality products of an exceptionally high level! This Longer Orange 3 Resin SLA 10D printer is a great buy when it comes to 3D printing.

4C per layer (50-70 mm per hour)

SLISER software 9

CHITU CHITU DLP

FURTS INSIDE BUILDS AND COMMUNICATION BE value for money

Pros :

Delivers exceptional accuracy and precision with 30W dynamic UV for fast printing, delivering 4 seconds per layer using a 2560 x 1440 2K HD masking LCD.
Equipped with a dual fan air filtration system for impressive ventilation that uses activated carbon air filtration to effectively minimize odor differences.
Uses the latest ChiTuBox slicing software for an exceptional user interface.
Provides easy cleaning of the resin reservoir, plus a distinctive FEP release film reinforced at both ends.
With a print volume of 119 mm x 65 mm x 160 mm, we can produce larger and larger prints one after the other.
Has an integrated computer board that allows us to print directly from a USB stick.
The body of the system is all-metal manufactured using CNC cutting technology, which improves the structural system, reduces friction and provides relatively smooth printing.

Cons:

The manual is useless because there doesn’t seem to be any cleaning or post-processing procedures, and even all the instructions are written in Chinese.

Final take:

Creality 3D printers are gaining popularity and this Creality LD3R Resin 002D printer is another great resin 3D printer in the industry. It is economical yet effective as its powerful UV output delivers 4 seconds per coat with exceptional precision and resolution. During the testing procedure, the initial calibration and setup is extremely easy and our first prints were pretty good. After weeks of continuous testing and use, we can confidently state that this 3D printer is a fantastic piece to get started with resin 3D printing. The resolution is really very good, and the surface quality of the printed parts is impressive. We have been using the printer for two months now, and since we have used it, it has not disappointed us. In addition, the performance of this 3D printer is amazing. Without a doubt, this Creality LD3R Resin 002D Printer is a fantastic way to start your 3D printing journey.

It is small and compact, can be stored quickly and easily, and can be used in a variety of contexts, including personal and professional use.

Features a 3840 x 2160 pixel ultra-high definition display and a 6.1-inch printable area.

Has the highest PPI (722 PPP) and a print speed of 80 mm per hour at 35 microns.

Suitable for all LCD resins and even most DLP resins.

Cons:

The work table is not tilted and holds a significant amount of resin.
Compared to other 3D printers in the same price range, it usually has a smaller build volume.

Final take:

This PHROZEN Sonic Mini Resin 3D printer is an impressive low cost resin 3D printer with high speed printing, high precision and ease of use. It has a very advanced production and processing method that cures the resin in a fraction of a second. In the same way, it uses a thermally stable mono-LCD display, which will better last about 2000 hours, so we don’t have to worry about maintenance and care. During testing, we tested this 3D printer with 0.03mm resolution accessories along with aqua green resin. The standard resin profile allowed only 2 seconds, but we accurately tested it for 1. 35 seconds to achieve more accurate measurements and fewer filled loops. In addition, this resin 3D printer is so easy to operate that we can start printing in 5 minutes with just 3 clicks. We liked how the touchscreen feels responsive and the user interface looks attractive along with the lightweight body it has.

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What is the difference between photopolymer 3D printing technologies

Basics of 3D

Rapid prototyping

Experts recommend

3D printers

Author: Alexey Chekhovich

SLA, DLP and LCD are three similar technologies for stereolithographic 3D printing, and users often have a question: which method to choose for additive manufacturing tasks?

All three technologies are based on the use of a photopolymer resin that is layer-by-layer cured during printing in a special tank of a 3D printer, in other words, on the process of photopolymerization in a bath. Let’s look at the differences to consider when buying a 3D printer (SLA, DLP or LCD) or when using a 3D service.

We will select a 3D printer for your production tasks! Call +7 (495) 223‑02‑06 or leave an online request for a free consultation:

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SLA: laser stereolithography

SLA (Stereolithography Apparatus) is the oldest additive technology. It was introduced in the mid-1980s by 3D Systems. The invention of SLA more than thirty years ago marked the beginning of 3D printing, which has changed millions of lives.

SLA printers use a laser. It selectively illuminates the photopolymer resin in the printer’s tank. The laser beam shines on the bottom of the tank and is guided by mirror galvanometers to the precise area to be cured.

This continues until the layer is completely cured, then the build platform is raised one layer, and the process is repeated until the model is printed.

iQB Technologies experts recommend the article Affordable 3D services for business: an industrial SLA printer is being mastered in Krasnodar

DLP: Digital Light Processing

The DLP (Digital Light Processing) method was invented a little later — in 1987 by Larry Hornbeck from Texas Instruments — though not for additive manufacturing, but for film projection, where this technology has found wide application.

DLP printing uses a projector rather than a UV laser like SLA. The projector emits light at once on the entire layer of resin, selectively curing the part with the help of thousands of tiny mirrors, called digital micromirror devices (DMD), directing the light projection.

These projectors use pixels to create images and layers are made up of voxels, just like conventional 2D or 3D cameras.

LCD: photopolymerization with LCD screen

Recently, inexpensive LCD printers have become popular, offering better quality than FDM machines at the same price. This type of photopolymer printer uses LED-backlit liquid crystal panels to cure the resin, similar to DLP-based equipment.

As in the case of DLP, LCD printing consists in the simultaneous illumination of entire layers to cure the photopolymer, but without the use of mirrors. Instead, powerful LCD panels emit light onto the model using LEDs. The LCD panel blocks backlight in areas that cannot be cured.

The LCD screen only allows light to pass through the areas to be cured onto the finished part, simplifying the process and eliminating the need for any mirrors or galvanometers.

Main differences between SLA, DLP and LCD

Although SLA, DLP, and LCD technologies are similar in many ways—they are all based on the layer-by-layer curing of photopolymer resin—there are a few key differences between them.

The main difference between SLA and DLP/LCD is the method used for photopolymerization.

DLP uses a projector, LCD uses an LCD screen, and SLA uses a UV laser to mark the dimensions of the printed model. DLP and LCD printers are faster than SLA machines because they can create entire layers at the same time, while laser stereolithography requires manual tracking of the dimensions of each layer with a laser.

The RAYSHAPE Shape 1+ Professional DLP Printer is a compact solution ideal for a dental or manufacturing lab

There is another less significant but noteworthy difference: DLP printers usually have smaller resin tanks. If you want to save money, then this will be an advantage: the consumption of unused expensive resin will decrease.

Read the article Post-curing products in SLA printing: how to increase strength and quality in the blog

Print Quality Comparison

Resin 3D printing is known as one of the most precise additive processes, and even budget LCD printers are capable of creating complex geometries that technologies like FDM simply cannot match.

An example of LCD printing of industrial parts

The print quality of an LCD printer compared to a DLP/SLA printer depends on the specific hardware. An expensive SLA machine is expected to be much better than a budget DLP due to higher quality components and better resolution and accuracy.

The technologies themselves are similar in their ability to create accurate models, and it is execution that affects quality.

Comparison of 3D printers

Do you hesitate between SLA and DLP printers? Analyze your 3D printing priorities.

If print speed is most important to you, choose a DLP solution, in most cases it will provide significantly better performance.

If you value reliability, choose a brand known for print quality. To reiterate, the differences in technologies are not so great as to make a choice between them; choose a printer based on your individual requirements.

Likewise, if you’re making molds for jewelry or dental models, choose a 3D printer that’s designed for those tasks.

Printing Dental Products with the Wiibox 280 Plus LCD Printer at 5K Resolution

If you’re looking for a cheaper printer that can print usable prototypes at home and are satisfied with slightly worse print quality, get an LCD printer.

Photopolymer comparison

Some photopolymer resins are suitable for both DLP and SLA installations, as well as for DLP and LCD printers. But this is not always the case. Some equipment manufacturers provide an open material system (i.e. use any third-party photopolymers), while others restrict their use to their proprietary materials.

The choice of photopolymer depends on the goals you want to achieve with SLA, DLP, or LCD printing. There are basic resins for hobbyist projects, and there are specialized resins for 3D printing casting models, dental, engineering or jewelry.

Photopolymer resin in containers and products created by DLP printing

Higher-quality industrial and professional grade photopolymers cost more. Budget materials, in turn, will not provide the same level of quality in production, even on high-end printers.

When choosing a photopolymer, you need to find out the wavelength of the printer’s light source. It is also indicated on the consumable. The most popular SLA/DLP/LCD printers on the market today use 405nm illumination and related resins.

Print speed

In the SLA machine, the laser passes through every part of the cured part, while DLP and LCD-based equipment can instantly cure entire layers. Thus, DLP and LCD technologies provide faster printing than SLA.

When comparing the speed of DLP and LCD printing, it depends on the 3D printer.