Resin 3D printing is transforming the world of manufacturing, design, and prototyping. Unlike traditional 3D printing, which uses filaments or powders, the best resin 3D printer uses a liquid photopolymer that is hardened using ultraviolet light. The result is a highly detailed and accurate 3D object that you can use for a wide range of applications, including jewelry making, dental implants, and engineering prototypes.
Investing in a high-quality resin 3D printer can make all the difference in your projects. It can help reduce material waste, improve print quality, and speed up production time. Choosing the right printer can also provide versatility in the type of projects you can take on, as different printers have different capabilities.
This article will explore the best resin 3D printers available in the market and compare their features, benefits, and limitations.
By the end of this write-up, you will better understand what to look for in a resin 3D printer and which one is best suited for your specific needs.
Factors To Consider When Choosing the Best Resin 3D Printer
When selecting a resin 3D printer, there are several factors to consider, such as:
Resolution
Resolution is one of the most critical factors when selecting a resin 3D printer. It refers to the possible layer thickness, with smaller resolutions producing less visible layer lines. If you’re looking for highly detailed and accurate prints, choose a higher-resolution printer, but remember that higher resolutions usually mean longer printing times.
Accuracy
Accuracy is another essential factor, especially if you need to produce consistent prints with minimal error. Look for a printer with a high accuracy rating, meaning your print resolution could be within a specified error window. Most dental applications require an accuracy of within 50 μm, while some jewelry and medical applications may require even higher levels of accuracy.
Printing Speed
Printing speed is also crucial, as faster printing times can increase production efficiency. However, professionals and industrial machines often prioritize high-resolution parts printed quickly over speed. Consider the balance between resolution and printing speed that best suits your needs.
Build Volume
Build volume is another factor to consider, as it determines the maximum size of the objects you can print. Most of these printers have a smaller build volume than FDM 3D printers. However, if you want the best large resin 3d printer, go for the Anycubic Photon Mono X, or even the Elegoo Saturn (not on our top 3 list) can do the job.
Ease of Use
Although most resin 3D printers require you to pour the resin into the vat, more are adopting a resin cartridge approach to mitigate the mess and some of the hazards. Some professional machines offer a touchless conveyor system to bring parts from the printer to the washer and the curing station.
Is Resin Toxic?
Yes, 3D printing resins are toxic materials. They are chemicals, more specifically, photopolymers of monomers, oligomers, and various additives. They’re carcinogenic, irritating the skin and respiratory systems, and harmful to the environment. You must always use gloves when handling and cleaning resin-printed parts and print in a well-ventilated area to reduce fume buildup. You should also collect and dispose of unused resin at a hazardous materials collection point.
Top Resin 3D Printers On the Market
Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8k – Best Resin 3d Printer For Miniatures
Features:
- MSLA Technology
- 218 x 123 x 235 mm build volume
- 10-inch Monochrome LCD
- 7680 X 4320 resolution
- 0.028 mm XY Axis Resolution
- USB, Ethernet, wifi
Pros:
- Supports large build volume
- Print removal is effortless
- Wifi connectivity
Cons:
- Non-functional camera
This 8K resin printer can handle a plethora of small figures with ease, thanks to Its 218 x 123 mm build plate. While its price may not be the most affordable, priced around $600 at the time of writing, its output is worth every penny, with prints that look crisp and easily slide off the build plate.
Moreover, it’s also WiFi-ready and comes equipped with a built-in webcam. We found its touchscreen display user-friendly and appreciated the onboard tutorial that helped level and run a test print. In addition, the printer allows for easy changes to exposure settings directly on the device, which is helpful when dialing in a new resin.
The Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8K size is comparable to that of FDM printers. This makes it a worthwhile investment for artists or those running an Esty shop. We could print 12 highly detailed gaming figures simultaneously, which took only 4 hours.
The only issue is the non-functional camera. Unfortunately, there’s no definitive date for the camera firmware will be available. Even then, the Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8k is the best resin 3d printer for jewelry and miniatures.
Creality Ld-002h Resin 3d Printer – Best 4k Resin Printer
Features:
- Resin Technology
- 130*82*160mm build volume
- 7.9-inch Monochrome LCD
- 4k resolution
- 1-4 seconds per layer speed
- USB, wifi
Pros:
- Powerful processor for image and data processing
- Very fast prints
- Easy to learn
- Compatible with multiple slicing software
Cons:
- A bit loud
The HALOT-ONE Plus(CL-79) from Creality 3D is another top-of-the-line printer. It boasts a 7.9-inch mono LCD with Ultra 4K HD resolution, which provides an amazing 37.5% higher print screen exposure size and 73% higher build volume than its predecessor, the HALOT one.
This translates to incredibly detailed and accurate prints that will leave you in awe.
One of the standout features of the HALOT-ONE Plus is its self-developed integral light source. Based on the reflection principle, this light source provides a light intensity of 4500 uw/㎡ and an evenness of lighting up to 90%, ensuring that every print is of the highest possible quality.
In addition, the HALOT-ONE Plus has a stable structure, with a Z-axis designed to have dual linear rails and a T-shape screw rod. This allows for super smooth movement, reducing layer texture and the risk of layer deviation. Whether you’re printing a simple or complex model, the HALOT-ONE Plus can easily handle it.
The printer also has wide software compatibility, working seamlessly with Windows 7 and above, as well as Halot Box, Lychee Slicer, and Chitubox. This feature allows you to prepare 3D printing models more easily and effectively.
Anycubic Photon M3 – Best Beginner Resin 3D Printer
Features:
- Resin Technology
- 163 x 102 x 180mm build volume
- 4098 x 2560 resolution
- 7.6-inches LCD Size
- 04mm XY Axis Resolution
- USB support
Pros:
- Creates very detailed 4K+ prints
- Very fast exposure time (2 sec per layer)
- Large build plate for the size
Cons:
- Four bolt leveling platform makes it hard to remove
On third, we have the Anycubic Photon M3, which is the best resin 3d printer for beginners. It boasts impressive features at an affordable price. With 4K+ quality, this machine produces highly-detailed prints that rival those of more expensive models. Its build plate is also larger than those of competitors in its class, allowing for the creation of larger models.
During our testing, we printed a 180mm tall unicorn model that was exceptionally detailed, with sharp ridges on its horn and mane and no visible layer lines. The etched build plate effectively held the model during printing, but removal was easy upon completion. Anycubic has included a screen protector for the LED light source to prevent accidental drips from damaging the printer, and the metal vat has a convenient pour spout.
Priced at approximately $320, the Anycubic Photon M3 is the best budget resin 3d printer. It suits beginners and pros looking to expand their 3D printing capabilities.
Tips for Maintaining a Resin 3D Printer
- First, check if any resin is present on the exterior and interior parts of the 3D printer. If present, use a small amount of 95% sanitizing alcohol to clean the resin. Cleaning the exterior will prevent any resin from getting inside the printer and causing damage.
- Next, cleaning the LCD is important. To do this, use a rubber air blower to remove dust and lint, then apply a small amount of 95% alcohol on the LCD and wipe in one direction. This will prevent the printer’s LCD from becoming damaged.
- Cleaning the resin vat is also crucial. Apply a small amount of 95% alcohol on the vat and the FEP film, then wipe in one direction to clean. Ensure that the underside of the FEP film is also cleaned, and if the vat is filled with resin, use the yellow plastic scraper to mix the resin slightly and check if any cured resin is left in the vat.
- Check the building plate and see if resin markings or cured particles remain. If so, apply a small amount of 95% alcohol and use a clean paper towel or fiber cloth to clean the surface. Cleaning the building plate will prevent any cured particles from sticking to the next print and causing issues.
- Finally, set a maintenance routine for your resin 3d printer. Offering regular maintenance and cleanups will ensure your printer remains in tip-top condition and produces great results.
Conclusion
So, that’s all about resin 3d printers. We hope you know where to begin your search. When choosing the best resin 3D printer, consider the build volume, resolution, and compatibility with your software. Besides, look for a printer with a stable structure, a reliable manufacturer, and good after-sales support. You can achieve great results with your resin 3D printer with proper maintenance and careful selection.
