Support our educational content for free when you purchase through links on our site. Learn more
Resin 3D Printers [2023]: Everything You Need to Know
Welcome to "Best 3D Printer Awards™" – your ultimate guide to finding the perfect 3D printer. In this article, we're going to dive into everything you need to know about resin 3D printers. Whether you're a professional or a beginner, we've got you covered. By the end of this article, you'll have a clear understanding of what makes a great resin 3D printer and which one is right for you.
What is Resin 3D Printing?
Resin 3D printing is one of the most popular and versatile types of 3D printing. Resin printers use liquid resin instead of filament to create high-resolution 3D prints. The resin is exposed to UV light, which causes it to harden and create the desired shape.
Resin 3D printers are ideal for creating highly detailed, intricate parts that require a high level of accuracy and precision. They are commonly used in industries such as jewelry making, dental and medical fields, and small scale manufacturing.
Our Top Picks for Resin 3D Printers
Before we dive into what makes a great resin 3D printer, let's take a look at our top picks. These printers are some of the best on the market [2023], and they offer a great balance between affordability and quality.
For a more detailed comparison, we have created a table that compares some of the key specs of each of these printers:
| Printer Name | Resolution | Build Volume (mm) | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anycubic Photon Mono X | 3840 x 2400 | 192 x 120 x 250 | $839 |
| Elegoo Mars 2 Pro | 3840 x 2400 | 129 x 80 x 160 | $329 |
| Peopoly Phenom Noir | 1620 x 2560 | 292 x 165 x 400 | $1,999 |
When choosing a resin 3D printer, it's important to consider the resolution, build volume, and price. Each of these printers offers a great balance between these three factors, but it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs.
What You Need to Know When Buying a Resin 3D Printer
When looking to buy a resin 3D printer, there are a few things you should consider.
Resolution
Resolution is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a resin 3D printer. The resolution determines the level of detail that the printer can achieve. A higher resolution means that you can print more detailed and intricate models.
Build Volume
The build volume is the maximum size of the object that the printer can create. When choosing a printer, you need to consider the size of the parts you want to print. If you're planning on printing larger parts, you'll need a printer with a larger build volume.
Price
Price is always a consideration when buying a 3D printer. Resin 3D printers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The more expensive printers generally offer higher resolution, larger build volumes, and better overall quality. However, if you're on a budget, there are plenty of great affordable options available.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Resin printers can create highly detailed, intricate parts
- They offer a smooth surface finish
- Resin prints are durable and long-lasting
Cons:
- Resin can be messy and difficult to clean
- Resin printers can be more expensive than filament printers
- Resin prints require post-processing to remove excess resin
Popular Brands
There are several popular brands of resin 3D printers available on the market. Some of these brands include:
- Anycubic
- Elegoo
- Peopoly
- Prusa
Each of these brands offers a range of printers at different price points, with varying levels of resolution and build volume.
What are Resin 3D Printers Good for?
Resin 3D printers are ideal for creating highly detailed parts that require a high level of accuracy and precision. They are commonly used in industries such as:
- Jewelry making
- Dental and medical fields
- Small scale manufacturing
- Prototyping and product development
Resin printers are also great for creating figurines, models, and other small objects.
What is Better, Filament or Resin?
Both filament and resin 3D printing have their own benefits and drawbacks.
Filament printing is more affordable and easier to use, making it ideal for beginners. It also offers a wider range of materials and colors. However, the resolution isn't as high as resin printing, and the surface finish can be rough.
Resin printing offers a higher level of detail and precision, making it ideal for creating highly detailed parts. The prints also have a smoother surface finish. However, resin printers can be more expensive and the process is more messy and time-consuming.
Quick Tips and Facts
- Resin 3D printers use liquid resin instead of filament to create highly detailed parts
- These printers are ideal for creating highly detailed, intricate parts that require precision and accuracy
- When choosing a resin 3D printer, consider the resolution, build volume, and price
- Anycubic, Elegoo, Peopoly, and Prusa are some of the most popular resin 3D printer brands
- Resin 3D printers are ideal for industries such as jewelry making, dental and medical fields, and small scale manufacturing
- Filament printing is more affordable and easier to use, while resin printing offers higher resolution and a smoother surface finish
FAQ
What is better, filament or resin?
Both filament and resin printing have their own benefits and drawbacks. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific use case.
How much do resin 3D printers cost?
Resin 3D printers can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the resolution, build volume, and overall quality.
What are resin 3D printers good for?
Resin 3D printers are ideal for creating highly detailed, intricate parts that require a high level of accuracy and precision. They are commonly used in industries such as jewelry making, dental and medical fields, and small scale manufacturing.
Can I use my resin 3D printer to print figurines and models?
Yes, resin 3D printers are great for creating figurines, models, and other small objects.
Conclusion
Resin 3D printers are a great option for anyone looking to create highly detailed, intricate parts that require a high level of accuracy and precision. While they can be more expensive and messy than filament printers, the results are worth it. When choosing a resin 3D printer, consider the resolution, build volume, and price. We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect resin 3D printer for your needs!
Our recommendation: If you're looking for a great balance between quality and affordability, we recommend the Anycubic Photon Mono X. It offers a high resolution, a large build volume, and a reasonable price point.
