Highest resolution resin 3d printer

The 8 Best 4K/6K/8K Resin 3D Printers in 2022 – Clever Creations

Image: Phrozen3D

Our site is reader-supported. When you buy via the affiliate links on this site, we will receive a commission at no cost to you. All opinions remain our own. Learn more

Resin 3D printers are known for their exceptional print quality and for producing highly detailed models with a smooth surface finish. While 2K screens were already enough for achieving such results, manufacturers are now upgrading these machines with 4K, 6K, and 8K screens for even better print quality.

With these additional choices comes the challenge of choosing the right printer that gives you the best value. This article will go over some of the best products in this category, easing your decision-making process. Read on to choose your pick from some of the best 4K+ resin 3D printers available on the market right now.

The Best 4k+ Resin 3D Printers in 2022

Elegoo Mars 3

Best 4K Printer

AmazonELEGOOMatterhackers

The Elegoo Mars 3 is the latest Mars series resin 3D printer from the Elegoo brand. It is upgraded from the Mars 2 both in its features and design making it stand out amongst the crowded space of 4K resin printers.

The Mars 3 features a 37% larger build volume than the Mars 2 and has a dense 4K LCD screen that outputs a 0.035 mm (35μm) XY resolution. This results in high-resolution prints with much clearer details and fewer surface artifacts. The UV light source and the FEP film are upgraded as well, to be more durable and improve performance over the earlier versions.

Included is a bundled one-year subscription to Chitubox Pro slicer, giving you extra features on the software side of things. Overall, the Elegoo Mars 3 is a superb resin printer that delivers excellent print quality and has segment-leading features for a budget price. It is an ideal choice for beginners, hobbyists, and prosumers looking for an all-round 4K 3D printer.

Standout Features

• Large build volume
• Powerful COB light source
• Sandblasted build plate

Technical Details
Build Volume	143 x 89 x 175 mm
XY Resolution	35 µm (4098 x 2560 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	ChiTuBox (Pro)
Connectivity	USB

What We Like

• Beginner-friendly design
• 1-year free Chitubox Pro
• Durable FEP film

Could Be Better

• Limited connectivity options
• No air filtration

Elegoo Saturn S

Best 4K Printer

Check Price

AmazonELEGOOMatterhackers

Improving upon the original Saturn, the Elegoo Saturn S is upgraded with better features to comply with 2022 resin 3D printer standards. It comes with a 9.1” 4K LCD screen with more pixels (4098 x 2560) to match the increase in the build volume while still delivering high-resolution resin prints.

The Saturn S features the new FEP film v2.0, which increases the chances of print success due to its low release force. For stability, the printer has a double linear guideway to provide a stable and sturdy printing experience and reduce the risk of layer shifting. The build surface, too, has a sandblasted finish to ensure better paint adhesion and a long life.

Its inbuilt, removable air-purifier is an excellent addition that filters any 3D printer fumes, making it safe to print within the house and around children. The Elegoo Saturn S is a well-built 3D printer and is a perfect match for hobbyists and professionals looking for a large 4K resin printer with a decent printing speed.

Standout Features

• FEP film v2.0
• Removable air purifier
• Super stable structure

Technical Details
Build Volume	196 x 122 x 210 mm
XY Resolution	48 µm (4098*2560 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	Chitubox
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet

What We Like

• Little odors and toxic fumes
• Intuitive touchscreen UI
• Reliable

Could Be Better

• No Wi-Fi

Find Elegoo Saturn S at

AmazonELEGOOMatterhackers

Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K

Best 4K Printer

Check Price

AmazonPhrozenMatterHackers

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K is a compact, small form factor resin printer that aims to compete with the Elegoo Mars 3. The Sonic Mini 4K comes with a 4K mono LCD as its main highlight, along with a decent build volume.

The 3840 x 2160 pixel LCD screen results in an impressive 722 PPI giving you one of the highest XY resolutions of 35 µm. This level of detail is beneficial for printing miniatures, jewelry items, and intricate resin models. Its compact design makes it easy to store the printer anywhere, and the large touchscreen is easy and intuitive to use, even for beginners.

Considering the price of $350, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K is a capable machine that delivers high-quality 3D prints in a budget-friendly and compact package. It is a great fit for beginners, and hobbyists looking for a high-resolution, compact resin 3D printer.

Standout Features

• Monochrome LCD screen
• Compact form factor
• Wide resin compatibility

Technical Details
Build Volume	135 x 75 x 130 mm
XY Resolution	35 µm (3840 x 2160 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	ChiTuBox
Connectivity	USB

What We Like

• Sleek looking design
• Beginner-friendly
• Fast curing speeds

Could Be Better

• Z-banding issues
• Poor LCD quality

Find Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K at

AmazonPhrozenMatterHackers

Peopoly Phenom L

Largest 4K Resin Printer

Check Price

MatterHackers

In the realm of resin 3D printers, the Peopoly Phenom L certainly stands out and makes itself known with an enormous build volume of 346 x 194 x 400 mm. With such a massive print volume, you can 3D print an entire full-sized helmet in a single piece.

To complement this print area, it offers a 4K LCD screen with an XY resolution of 90 µm. It may not be the most impressive screen out there, but the print details are more than adequate. You will be hard-pressed to find any layer lines.

The Phenom L’s sturdy metal construction, and the dual linear Z-axis guideways, reduce any chances of print failures and aid in achieving a faster printing speed.

It is undoubtedly an expensive and giant machine and is not for everyone. But if you plan on carrying out batch printing or printing huge resin models in a single piece, the Peopoly Phenom L is one of the best 4k 3D printers out there.

Standout Features

• Large build volume
• Upgradable design
• Excellent build quality

Technical Details
Build Volume	346 x 194 x 400 mm
XY Resolution	90 µm (3840 x 2160 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	ChiTuBox
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet

What We Like

• Multi-resin compatibility
• Suitable for batch printing
• Consistent and reliable printing

Could Be Better

• No monochrome LCD screen
• Relatively low-resolution prints

Find Peopoly Phenom L at

MatterHackers

Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K

Best 6K Printer

Check Price

AmazonAnycubicGeekbuyingAliExpress

Even a 4K screen has its limitations, and if you need a larger print volume, it often means having to sacrifice print resolution. The Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K is designed to tackle precisely this issue while still being a relatively affordable printer.

The Mono X 6K comes with a 5,760 x 3,600 pixels monochrome LCD screen with a 300:1 contrast ratio. You get a 34 µm XY resolution, and the high contrast delivers prints with sharp and well-defined corners and edges. The LCD has a high transmittance rate of 6%, resulting in faster curing times than other resin 3D printers and an increased printing speed of up to 80 mm/hr.

To protect its impressive LCD, Anycubic has added a layer of anti-scratch film on top of the screen. The combination of an outstanding build volume and a large and high-resolution 6K display, coupled with decent pricing, make the Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K an excellent choice for industries and professionals looking for a high-quality 6K resin printer under $1000.

Standout Features

• Large LCD screen
• 300:1 High contrast display
• Powerful light matrix

Technical Details
Build Volume	197 x 122 x 245 mm
XY Resolution	34 μm (5760 x 3600 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	Anycubic Photon Workshop
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, USB

What We Like

• Fast print speeds
• Sharp and crisp print details
• Universal resin compatibility

Could Be Better

• Limited slicer options
• No air filtration system

Find Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K at

AmazonAnycubicGeekbuyingAliExpress

Elegoo Jupiter 6K

Best 6K Printer

Check Price

ELEGOO

The Elegoo Jupiter 6K lives up to its name and is the latest high-end, high-resolution resin printer with a large build volume from the Elegoo brand. Launched as a Kickstarter project, Jupiter is one of the most unique and class-leading resin 3D printers of 2022.

It has a massive 12.8” 6K LCD screen that supports 278 x 156 x 300 mm build volume. The all-metal structure and a ball-screw Z-axis are designed to be durable and provide a silent 3D printing experience. Its automatic resin feeding system and the built-in air purifier were previously unseen in this category and significantly improve your user experience.

The large 5-inch capacitive touchscreen comes with a redesigned UI that is straightforward to use and gives you easy access to all of its features. And the built-in LED lights give Jupiter a sleek look while lighting up any hard-to-see spots.

Just like with the Elegoo Saturn S, you get access to a Chitubox Pro license for 1-year, offering you access to professional slicing tools. Even though it’s currently in a pre-order state, the overall quality and superb feature set look promising. If you’re a professional, or even a hobbyist looking for your next big resin 3D printer, the Elegoo Jupiter is likely to serve you well.

Standout Features

• Automatic resin feeding
• Built-in mini air purifier
• All-metal structure

Technical Details
Build Volume	278 x 156 x 300 mm
XY Resolution	51 µm (5448 x 3064 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	Chitubox Pro
Connectivity	USB

Find Elegoo Jupiter 6K at

ELEGOO

Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K

Best 8K Printer

Check Price

PhrozenMatterHackers

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K represents the pinnacle of resin LCD screens, with the densest display and the highest ever XY resolution. The 7.1” 8K LCD has 1152 PPI, resulting in a print resolution of 22 µm. This marginally beats the Form 3’s 25 µm XY resolution, even though the latter is an SLA (not MSLA) resin 3D printer.

The build volume is comparatively small at just 165 x 72 x 180 mm, but it is enough to pack a variety of miniature models onto its platform. The frosted build plate ensures that the models stay in place while this 8K resin printer prints at an impressive 80 mm/hr printing speed.

Its linear projection LED module enhances the light uniformity, resulting in sharper and precise 3D models. The dual linear rails on the Z-axis, too, are unique for small-volume resin 3D printers. They stabilize the build platform and aid in getting high quality with minimal layer lines and Z-banding issues.

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K’s impressive resolution comes in handy while printing incredibly intricate jewelry pieces, models, and miniatures with a high level of detail. It is arguably the best pick for professionals in these industries as well as hobbyists looking for the highest detail resin 3D printer at a reasonable price.

Standout Features

• High XY Resolution
• Frosted laser cut print bed
• Linear projection LED module

Technical Details
Build Volume	165 x 72 x 180 mm
XY Resolution	22 µm (7500 x 3240 pixels)
Bed-Leveling	Manual
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	ChiTuBox
Connectivity	USB

Find Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K at

PhrozenMatterHackers

Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K

Best 8K Printer

Check Price

Phrozen

The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K competes with the likes of the Peopoly Phenom L and even takes the lead by incorporating a 15” monochrome LCD. This mono LCD allows for fast printing, is long-lasting, and outputs an excellent resolution of 43 µm on the XY plane.

The Sonic Mega 8K’s massive build volume of 330 x 185 x 400 mm lets you print just about anything you want. Its perforated print bed is designed to reduce the high peeling forces of such a large print area and comes pre-calibrated right from the factory to help you get started right away.

To reduce wobbling while printing at such a large scale, the Sonic Mega 8k comes with dual linear rails on the Z-axis along with a ball-screw-driven design. The full-metal construction is designed to be durable and long-lasting while providing strength to the entire printer’s structure.

However, the lack of an automatic resin feeding system and an air purifier is strongly felt. In that regard, the Elegoo Jupiter 6K takes the upper hand.

Nonetheless, the Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K is a giant resin printer designed for high-quality batch printing and to print humongous models all in a single piece. If you need a large-scale resin printer without any compromise on quality, the Sonic Mega 8K is your best bet.

Standout Features

• Massive print volume
• Pre-calibrated, perforated build plate
• Dual linear rail & ball screw design

Technical Details
Build Volume	330 x 185 x 400 mm
XY Resolution	43 µm
Bed-Leveling	Factory leveled
Materials	405 nm resin
Recommended Slicer	Chitubox
Connectivity	USB, Ethernet

What We Like

• Excellent printing quality
• Durable metal construction
• Large build volume

Could Be Better

• Not beginner-friendly
• Needs lots of resin per print

Find Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K at

Phrozen

What to look for when buying a high resolution (4K/6K/8K) resin printer

Intended use

The very first thing you should consider is the reason why you want to buy a high-resolution resin 3D printer. If you’re in the business of extremely detailed models, prototypes, or 3D printed miniatures, buying a high-res printer makes perfect sense. The better your prints, the more you can make money with your 3D printer.

On the other hand, if you just want to get started with 3D printing and have a low budget, buying a high-resolution resin printer may not be the best decision.

In general, the more detail (or size) you need in your resin prints, the easier it is to justify the higher spend of a 4K, 6K, or even 8K 3D printer.

Screen size

The size of the screen is another important factor to consider when choosing a high-resolution resin printer. Resin 3D printers with smaller screens can be quite limiting, as you won’t be able to print large models without having to break them into multiple parts.

Keep in mind that a larger screen size does reduce detail when comparing two displays of similar resolutions. If you are looking for extremely detailed resin prints, a compact 6K or 8K screen, like those on the Anycubic Photon Mono X 6K or Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K, is ideal.

ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X 6K Resin 3D Printer, Large LCD Resin 3D Printer...

Check Price

Resin compatibility

The third factor you should consider is the resin compatibility of the printer. Not all 3D printers are compatible with the same types and brands of resin, so it’s important to do your research on this before making a purchase.

Post-processing requirements

Once your model is printed, it will need to be cleaned and cured before it’s ready to use. This process can be time-consuming, so make sure you know what’s involved before you buy a high-resolution resin printer.

Cleaning typically involves using isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove excess resin from your model. Curing usually involves placing your model under UV light or in a UV curing station for a period of time, which can be anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the type of resin you’re using.

Recommended:

The 10 Best UV Curing Stations for Resin 3D Printing

Some 3D printers come with integrated cleaning and curing features, which can make the post-processing process much easier. Alternatively, you can buy a dedicated wash and cure station so that you can start a new resin print while the old one is being post-processed.

FAQ

What is the difference between a 2K vs 4K resin printer?

2K and 4K resin 3D printers are both types of stereolithography (SLA) 3D printers. The key difference between them is that 2K resin printers have a resolution of around 2,048 pixels wide, while 4K resin 3D printers have a resolution of around 4,096 pixels. This means that a 4K 3D printer can produce finer details and smoother surfaces than a 2K resin 3D printer. However, they also tend to be more expensive.

What is the highest resolution resin printer?

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K and the Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K are currently the highest resolution resin 3D printers on the market. They both have a resolution of around 8,000 pixels wide, which is far higher than any other printer on the market.

How much does a good resin 3D printer cost?

A good resin 3D printer can cost anywhere from $350 to $500. This price range will usually get you a quality machine that can produce some very detailed and accurate prints. Of course, like with most things, you can always spend more if you want to get an even better printer. But for most people, a machine in this price range will be more than enough.

Is the Elegoo Mars 4K?

Yes, the latest version of the Mars, the Elegoo Mars 3, is 4K. This updated version offers a higher resolution than the previous one, making it even easier to print precise and detailed models. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced 3D printer, the Elegoo Mars is a great option for anyone looking for high-quality prints.

ELEGOO Resin 3D Printer, Mars 3 MSLA 3D Printer with 6.66 inches Ultra...

Check Price

Is SLA better than DLP?

DLP 3D printers tend to be faster than SLA 3D printers when filling the entire build platform, or when printing a large dense print. When it comes to small and medium sizes prints, SLA takes the upper hand.

Is DLP faster than FDM?

Yes, DLP (digital light processing) is significantly faster than FDM (fused deposition modeling). DLP uses a projector to expose the entire build area at once, while the FDM printhead needs to move over the entire build platform sequentially. This means that DLP can print an entire layer in a single go, while FDM takes longer. As a result, DLP is typically much faster than FDM.

Conclusion

The resin 3D printers market is ever-expanding, and it is likely that 4K screens will become the norm rather than the exception. With the introduction of 6K and 8K resin 3D printers, the technology is only getting better.

As of now, though, the Elegoo Mars 3 seems to be the best 4K resin 3D printer with its impressive LCD screen, decent print volume, and a unique-looking design that makes it stand apart from the crowd. The Chitubox Pro bundle is neat as well, giving you professional slicing tools and helping you get the most out of your Mars 3.

Alternatively, if you want an even higher resolution, the Elegoo’s Jupiter 6K and the Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K are the next best 4K+ resin 3D printers that you can get. Their build volume, coupled with the impressive LCD screens and a nice set of features, make these 3D printers a lucrative option for hobbyists and prosumers looking for a high-quality resin printer.

Let us know your thoughts on the list, and if you have anything else to add, feel free to comment below.

Scroll to Top

Phrozen announces the highest-resolution 3D printer to ever hit the commercial market

(Image credit: Phrozen /Future) Audio player loading…

Phrozen, one of the world’s top manufacturers of 3D printers, has announced the Sonic 8K mini, a resin-based LCD printer with the highest resolution ever seen on a commercially available machine. 

As the name would imply, this printer's 8K resolution can achieve crisp details at even the smallest sizes, with an XY resolution of 1152 PPI (or 22 Microns), making it fantastic for tabletop miniatures and prototyping products like jewellery.

While still being classed as a compact-sized printer, you’re getting a decent screen size of 7.1-inches, alongside other benefits like a solid metal resin vat and a 3.5-inch touch display panel. 

• Check out our guide for the best 3D printer
• 3D printers could be making you ill
• This is the best 3D modeling software of 2021
(Image credit: Phrozen)

The Phrozen Sonic 8K Mini is almost here

There are plenty of 3D printers on the market right now, but developments within the making space are coming thick and fast. If you’re on the market for something that can achieve extremely fine detail then you’ll be navigated towards resin-based printers (often called LCD, SLA or DLP dependant on what type of technology is being used), rather than filament (or FDM) printers thanks to their ability to pick up details without noticeable print lines.

The Sonic 8K looks to be especially capable of not only getting in teeny details on prints but also smooth surfaces without any noticeable layer lines which can reduce post-processing time for sanding or priming.

The early bird price for the Sonic Mini 8K will be $349.99 (around £260 / AU$480) with the original price set at $599.99 (around £440 / AU$820), and will be available to preorder over on the Phrozen website from October 17 , though you’ll need to sign up for email alerts to get the notification regarding when preorders go live if you’re keen to get that early bird deal.

Phrozen Sonic 8K Mini specifications

The specifications and dimensions of the Phrozen Sonic 8K Mini are as follows:

• Build Volume: 165  x 72 x 180 mm
• Layer Height: 0.01mm
• XY Resolution:  22 microns (7680 × 4320 pixels)
• Printing Speed: 80mm an hour
• Bed-Leveling: N/A
• Display: 3.5-inch touchscreen
• Third-Party Materials: Yes
• Materials: Specialist 8K UV resin
• Printer size: 290 x 290 x 420 mm
• Weight: 15kg
(Image credit: Phrozen)

Phrozen is also launching a specialized 8K resin alongside the Sonic 8K, dubbed the Phrozen Aqua-Gray 8K Resin.  

It’s not clear if this will be available in other colors going forwards but Gray is a fantastic base for almost every project and prototype anyway that can better display the details of your print than solid black or white.

“With the launch of Sonic Mini 8K, customers can now create extremely high-quality professional prints in 8K resolution effortlessly,” says Ray Wu, the CEO of Phrozen. “We aim to expand the accessibility of LCD 3D printing by continuing to create consumer-friendly and high-resolution 3D printers for the masses so that everyone can experience the joy of 3D printing.”

If you’re especially keen to know more then Phrozen has a Facebook group where it provides more exclusive information to group members, which may prove useful if you’re looking to get yourself to the head of the queue.

• 3D printers could finally be about to get a lot more powerful

Jess is a former TechRadar Computing writer, where she covered all aspects of Mac and PC hardware, including PC gaming and peripherals. She has been interviewed as an industry expert for the BBC, and while her educational background was in prosthetics and model-making, her true love is in tech and she has built numerous desktop computers over the last 10 years for gaming and content creation. Jess is now a journalist at The Verge.

Best High-Resolution 3D Printers of 2022: A Complete Buying Guide

Resolution is a little-understood aspect of precision 3D printing, and there are many important factors that affect print quality beyond layer height. This article recommends the best high resolution 3D printers, explains the factors that make up a high resolution 3D printer, and the advantages and disadvantages.

Usually, when choosing a resolution for 3D printing, the Z-axis resolution, or Z-resolution, is the most discussed. This is the vertical resolution, which refers to the minimum height or layer thickness possible for a 3D printer.

Smaller layers mean better resolution and better surface finish on parts with smoother surfaces and sharper edges.

So having a high quality 3D printer that can print at low layer heights can be a big advantage. However, this is not the only factor that affects print quality, there are many others that affect whether a high resolution 3D printer actually prints accurate and smooth details.

Contents

1. Resolution in 3D printing: X, Y and Z resolution
2. Other factors affecting print quality
3. When do high quality 3D printers matter most?
4. Best High Resolution 3D Printers
5. Ender 3 V2 - Precision 3D Printer Under $0
6. Elegoo Mars 2 Pro
7. Anycubic Photon Mono 4K
8. Elegoo Mars 3 - Best Inexpensive Resin Choice
+ 3903S
9. Formlabs Form 3
10. Ultimaker S3
11. Advantages of a high resolution 3D printer
12. Disadvantages of a precision 3D printer
13. High resolution 3D printing technologies
14. High resolution 3D printer FAQ

Resolution in 3D printing: X, Y and Z resolution

The Z resolution corresponds to the layer height of the printed part. However, the X and Y planes are also very important in a high resolution 3D printer.

The X and Y axes control the 2D print details: the ones that are inside each 2D layer. Then the Z-axis adds several layers, representing the height - the third dimension. Although these are all axes, the XY and Z axes are controlled by two different systems, with some FDM printers having a much finer resolution in Z than in XY.

low and high resolution in 3d printing layers

X and Y resolution is the smallest movement of the printer's print head (projector, extruder or laser, depending on the technology) within the layer - horizontally.

Various 3D printing technologies are able to provide better resolution than others. For example, SLA 3D printers are more accurate than FDM 3D printers, although their Z-resolutions may look the same on paper. This is mainly due to the better XY resolution resin 3D printers can print at, resulting in smoother surfaces, and better resin printers are able to print parts with barely visible layer lines.

However, other factors can significantly affect print quality.

Other factors affecting print quality

• Nozzle size: Smaller nozzles on FDM 3D printer extruders allow more complex and precise parts to be printed. Standard nozzles are typically 0.4mm, although much smaller 0.1mm or 0.2mm nozzles are available for printing small and precise parts. They are also better suited for printing supports and ledges.
• Frame and Vibration Stability: The strong, heavy metal frame that secures the printer and print bed to the ground is less susceptible to vibrations and other external factors that can affect print quality.
• Material: different materials are more accurate and precise than others, or are easier to print successfully than others.
• Technology: for example, SLA printers are more accurate than FDM and PolyJet offers some of the best accuracy in 3D printing.
• Slicer and Printer Settings: Your 3D slicer settings will be critical to print quality, and even the highest resolution 3D printers will print poor quality models if not optimized.

When do high quality 3D printers matter the most?

If you are planning to 3D print a very simple structure, like a cube, then using a high quality 3D printer, using large or small layers will make no difference. In fact, using low layer heights will cause the exact same print to take much longer.

For these very simple models with few complex parts, a regular cheap 3D printer will work almost as well as a high resolution industrial 3D printer that costs 20 times more.

However, high-quality precision 3D printers greatly improve the quality of more complex parts that have diagonal or arcuate lines or sides, as well as embossing and engraving.

Particularly for curved or diagonal parts, the lower the layer height and the more precise the printer, the less stepped these elements will look and the smoother they will look even up close.

Very high resolution 3D printers such as resin printers are commonly used to 3D print jewelry molds such as this 3D printed ring.

Source: Shapeways.

What's more, if you're printing a small part, such as 3D printing a miniature or desktop model, using an accurate printer with a very low layer height can be worth it, because even if it takes several times longer, it still won't take more than an hour.

Best High Resolution 3D Printers

Now we have illustrated the components that make up a high quality 3D printer, here are some guidelines.

High resolution and quality are relative here, meaning we have chosen printers in each price range that outperform others - a $200 3D printer can't compete with a $20,000 industrial 3D printer, but it can be the best in its class. price range.

Ender 3 V2 - Under $300 Precision 3D Printer

• Price: $279
• Assembly volume: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
• 3D printer type: FDM 3D printer and DIY 3D printer
• Minimum layer height: 0. 1 mm

The Ender 3 is an inexpensive and relatively high quality 3D printer.

Just as the original Ender 3 began to age, Creality released the Ender 3 V2. A well-designed printer, the Ender 3 V2 eliminates many of the shortcomings of its predecessor while maintaining an affordable price for even the most budget-conscious manufacturers.

Belt tensioners, a 4.2.2 32-bit motherboard, and silent stepper drivers do a lot to present a printer that feels much more modern than the Ender 3. 3 V2 is not amazing: the layer resolution is only 100 microns. But don't be fooled: high resolution printing is only defined by high resolution.

In action, the Ender 3 V2 is built to a level of precision that seems unusually high for an inexpensive FDM printer. With few visible, warping or layering issues, with excellent overall quality for large parts and decent results for small, detailed parts. Added to this is a fairly large build volume - 220 x 220 x 250 mm to be precise - for large projects and even for small-scale printing.

For the price, you also get to work with a decent range of materials - PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU. The only caveat is that you'll have to stick with simpler prints that are relatively free of complex embossing, small details, narrow arches, and the like.

In our experience, the Ender 3 V2 works best when creating household items such as plant pots or, say, vases, figurines, toys, accessories, and the like. We are sure that his printing abilities will be enough for a modest business selling non-geometrically complex products.

Keep in mind that the Ender 3 V2 is largely a hobby printer that needs a fair amount of tweaking to get the best results. Curious beginners and seasoned makers should find this an enjoyable part of the printing process, but "green" beginners may prefer an option with fewer "practical" aspects.

Elegoo Mars 2 Pro

• Price: $299
• Assembly volume: 129 x 80 x 160 mm
• 3D printer type: LCD 3D printer
• Z-axis accuracy: 0. 00125 mm, XY-axis resolution: 0.05 mm

The Elegoo Mars and Anycubic Photon ranges have revolutionized low-cost, high-resolution 3D printing for hobbyists and businesses around the world. The Elegoo Mars 2 is able to create resin models so accurate that it is increasingly being used to 3D print jewelry molds before they are molded into gold or other metal rings, bracelets and chains.

As an MSLA printer, Elegoo Mars prints resin models that outperform FDM counterparts in high resolution 3D prints with almost no visible layers. The 6-inch 2K LCD screen enables fast 3D printing by allowing a layer to be cured every 2 seconds.

In addition, Mars 2 Pro's CNC-machined aluminum construction improves stability by eliminating external vibrations that can affect 3D print detail. In addition, the new and improved build plate is designed for better adhesion and a higher quality result.

The printer is available in 12 languages, so those who do not speak English need not worry, and if you have any problems with the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro, the company will replace it under a 1-year warranty. Overall, this is a great, high quality 3D printer for producing resin parts cheaply and accurately.
3D print of a dinosaur head we made while reviewing the Elegoo Mars 2 Pro.

Anycubic Photon Mono 4K

• Price: $299
• Assembly volume: 132 x 80 x 165 mm
• 3D printer type: LCD 3D printer
• Z-axis accuracy: 0.00125 mm, XY resolution: 0.035 mm

The Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is another iterative upgrade of the venerable family of resin printers, an impressive option for those into high-resolution 3D printers. The Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is without a doubt one of the best cheap high resolution 3D printers out there.

Under the hood of the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is, you guessed it, a 4K LCD panel capable of delivering 35 micron pixel resolution, 15 microns better than its predecessor. In simple terms, this means a smooth surface and the finest detail in every print, which is immediately visible to the naked eye.

Imperfections are almost indistinguishable and, dare we say, the results are overwhelmingly close to perfection, as we have seen in this price range. Anycubic Photon Mono 4K also penetrates prints with a more than respectable layer cure time of less than 2 seconds.

For us, this printer has great hobby potential. We could hardly find an application where it would not impress. However, the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K comes into its own when working with 3D models and the like, thanks to its penchant for carving out detailed details.

Like other resin printers, the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K has its fair share of clutter and requires a strict regular cleaning routine. The lack of a resume feature and the sometimes unstable native slicer seem like annoying oversights. But these are minor shortcomings for a great inexpensive small form factor resin printer.

Elegoo Mars 3 - Best inexpensive resin choice

• Price: $349 - Available on Amazon here
• Assembly volume: 143 x 90 x 165 mm
• 3D printer type: LCD 3D printer
• Z-axis accuracy: 0. 00125 mm, XY-axis resolution: 0.035 mm

The Elegoo Mars is back and perhaps even better than ever, plus a new number. Fast, superbly detailed, compact and economical, the Elegoo Mars 3 also has the features we prefer to see in high-resolution resin printers, namely a 6.6-inch 4K ultra-monochrome LCD display and razor-slim 35-micron resolution.

Marketing and technical chatter aside, the Elegoo Mars 3 delivers impressively detailed results with clean edges and precise precision suitable for even the most demanding resin projects. The larger case volume of 143 x 90 x 165mm compared to the Mars 2 Pro also allows for larger prints while retaining the finest features and fine details.

We're particularly impressed with how well the printer handles figurines, toys and models, even those we think are big for a resin printer. Most importantly, the Elegoo Mars 3 sticks to the Mars tradition of flawless printers that perform at the same high level day in and day out. In other words, it's a workhorse.

Despite some concerns about the flimsy lid and the lack of features such as air filtering and Wi-Fi connectivity, we highly recommend the Elegoo Mars 3 to manufacturers, hobbyists and businesses looking for an affordable high resolution 3D printer. Please note that Elegoo Mars 3 is tied to the ChiTuBox slicer and will not work with third party alternatives.

Prusa i3 MK3S+

• Price: $749 set / $999 complete
• Assembly volume: 250 x 210 x 200 mm
• 3D printer type: FDM 3D printer and DIY 3D printer
• Minimum layer height: 50 microns

The Prusa i3 MK3S+ combines high resolution with workhorse reliability and is known as one of the best 3D printers in the world. This FDM printer can print accurate 50 micron layers and do it again and again without fail.

For better XY resolution and detail quality, resin printers like Elegoo Mars are better, but Prusa still has great quality, wider material compatibility - from ABS to PLA, polycarbonate to nylon! - and can even be converted into a color 3D printer that can print 5 colors at once if you purchase the Multi Material Upgrade Kit.

It's fast, constantly improving, and combines superior resolution with tenacity and reliability.

Formlabs Form 3

• Price: $3,499
• Assembly volume: 145 x 145 x 185 mm
• 3D printer type: SLA 3D printer
• XY resolution: 25 microns

Printers from Formlabs, a leading company in consumer 3D resin printing, are currently widely used in the jewelry, dental, medical and hearing aid industries.

If you look at the numbers behind the Formlabs Form 3 - which is, first of all, the build volume of 145 x 145 x 185 mm and a resolution of 25 microns - it does not attract too much attention. However, Formlabs' innovative LFS technology is the type of innovation we love to see. The real sophistication lies in how easy the printer is to use. With Formlabs Form 3, it's all about the machine doing its job, no fiddling or babysitting.

And the results will not keep you waiting. Equipped with high quality resin, the Formlabs Form 3 works exceptionally well, producing gorgeous and detailed prints suitable for commercial purposes. Print failures are virtually non-existent; in order for any errors to occur, it is necessary to physically shake the machine while printing.

For the pleasure of owning a Formlabs Form 3, you pay a lot of money. However, these costs are quickly repaid in time savings due to the printer's set-and-forget nature, which can be invaluable in a rapidly changing business environment. For SMBs that require low-volume, trouble-free, accurate models along with prototyping, there is little that can compete with the Formlabs Form 3.

Overall, for precision 3D printing, the Form 3 is one of the best quality high-resolution 3D printers out there.

Ultimaker S3

• Price: $3,850
• Assembly volume: 230 x 190 x 200 mm
• 3D printer type: FDM 3D printer and
dual extruder 3D printer
• Minimum layer height: 20 microns

The Ultimaker S3 is smaller but has the same performance as the S5. It is capable of creating incredible 20 micron layers that are so small they are hard to see. While this slows down print times by increasing the number of layers per part, the resulting model will be of unsurpassed quality compared to almost any other FDM printer.

In addition to being fantastically accurate, the Ultimaker S3 is also a dual-extruder 3D printer that produces accurate, multi-color or multi-material 3D prints and is therefore widely used for prototyping architectural models of buildings prior to construction work.

For those interested in creating architectural models, check out our ranking of the best architectural software.

The printer is easy to use, easy to print with - Ultimaker also owns Cura, the most popular 3D slicer - and delivers fantastic 20 micron precision with a wide range of compatible materials, including carbon fiber. Overall, the printer speaks for itself and proves to be one of the best high resolution 3D printers in FDM.

Benefits of High Resolution 3D Printer

Best Quality: High resolution results in a smoother surface, with excellent detail and detail aesthetics.

The only way to get fine details: models that have arches and sharp diagonal details can look very jagged at high layer heights, and low resolution 3D printers can't adequately print those details.

Ideal settings required: improved accuracy requires perfect calibration, perfect temperature settings to avoid filament or resin defects, and proper bed temperature and adhesion on the platen. Any errors here may result in defects in the print.

Significantly slower: prints with a 25 micron layer height four times longer than with a 100 micron layer because four 25 micron layers equals one 100 micron layer height. Large and complex models may take several days to print.

Higher chance of print failure: The more layers a model has, the more chances for errors to occur that can render a part useless.

High-Resolution 3D Printing Technologies

High-Resolution 3D Printing Technologies include:

FDM - Fused Deposition Modeling

resolution. The process involves layering molten filament onto a fixed build platform using a heated extruder to create patterns. FDM is at the lower end of the high resolution spectrum and is commonly used as a low cost alternative to more expensive technologies. FDM printers typically provide resolutions in the 50 to 200 micron range.

Resin (SLA, DLP, LCD)

Photopolymerization, commonly known as resin 3D printing, involves projecting a laser or light source to cure a liquid photosensitive resin into layers. Specific technologies include stereolithography (SLA), low power stereolithography (LFS), masked stereolithography (MSLA), and digital light processing (DLP). Resin printers typically achieve a layer resolution of 25-35 microns.

MJF - multi-jet simulation

Multi-jet modeling, or material inkjet, uses inkjet printheads to layer-by-layer melted materials to create a 3D part or model. Expensive and high-precision MJF printers are a reserve of large companies with a large treasury.

PolyJet - Resin Inkjet

PolyJet, or photopolymer inkjet, printers use layers of photosensitive liquid photopolymer resin to create prints, which is fed through the printheads and cured by exposure to ultraviolet light. Like the MJF, the PolyJet is expensive, although the printers are usually smaller.

High Definition 3D Printer FAQ

Are high definition 3D prints more durable?

No, on the contrary. Generally, thicker layers (or lower resolution) produce harsher results. This is because they minimize the number of contact points between layers. Fewer layers in contact with each other means less chance of bond strength problems.
However, print strength depends on many factors, including adhesion and layer height, extruder and bed temperatures, media quality and type, and the printing technology used. The definitive answer depends more on the specific printer than the resolution. A capable device, such as any of the best high resolution 3D printers, produces reliable parts at higher resolution.


What is high resolution 3D printing?

The answer to this question varies greatly depending on who you ask. To keep things simple, high-resolution 3D printing is best described as the process of printing parts with a higher overall quality—whether it be smoothness, quality of finish, detail, or model fidelity—than is typically found in the realm of 3D printing.

What can be done with a high resolution 3D printer?

High resolution 3D printing suitable for a wide range of applications. In the commercial realm, companies prefer high-resolution printing in areas such as dentistry, jewelry, biomedicine, and all kinds of functional prototyping where accuracy is critical. In the hobby realm, creators are turning to high-resolution printing for projects that require fine detail, such as figurines, modeling, and other decorative items.

How does 3D printing resolution affect speed?

Higher resolution reduces speed.
Print speed refers to how quickly the printer applies each layer. Because high resolution printing is synonymous with thinner layers, print speeds are typically slower than low resolution printing. With high-resolution 3D printing, printing speed is sacrificed in favor of accuracy. The exact time depends on the desired resolution, the technologies behind the printer being used such as resin or MJF, and the complexity of the model.


Choosing a liquid photopolymer for a 3D printer. Classification of materials for SLA/DLP 3D printing.

Contents:

1. Introduction
2. SLA Overview
3. SLA Standard Resins
1. Standard photopolymer resin - Standard
2. Clear Photopolymer Resin - Clear
4. Engineering photopolymer resins
1. Rigid photopolymer resin - Tough (like ABS)
2. Durable photopolymer resin - Durable (PP-like)
3. Heat resistant photopolymer resin - Heat resistant
4. Rubber-like photopolymer resin - Rubber-like (Elastic)
5. Ceramic photopolymer resin - Ceramic filled (Hard)
5. How to choose the right resin for your application
6. Dental and medical SLA resins
1. Medical Device Photopolymer Resin - Custom Medical Appliances (Class I Biocompatibility)
2. Dental Long Term Biocompatible Resin (Class IIa Biocompatible)
3. Class I biocompatibility vs Class IIa biocompatibility
7. Cast SLA resins
1. Cast resin for jewelry making
8. Generalized rules

Hello everyone, Friends! With you 3DTool!

This article compares photopolymer resins using Formlabs SLA 3D printing products –

Catalog of photopolymer 3D printers

Photopolymers from FormLabs

Detailed review of the Formlabs Form 3 3D printer

Introduction

The stereolithography prints plastic parts with high resolution, good fine detail, and a smooth surface. Due to the variety of photopolymer resins available for SLA, this technology is used in many different industries:

• "Standard" photopolymers are used for prototyping

• Engineering photopolymers have certain mechanical and thermal properties

• Dental and medical photopolymers have biocompatibility certificates.

• Cast photopolymers have a zero ash content after burning.

SLA 3D printing resin overview

SLA uses a laser to cure a liquid photopolymer resin. This process is called photopolymerization. Various combinations of polymers and other additives that are part of the resin allow you to get different material properties.

The main advantages and limitations that are common to all resins in SLA 3D printing are:

Benefits:

Weaknesses:

Base Resins for SLA

Post-Processing SLA/DLP 3D Printing Article



Standard photopolymer resin - Standard

Standard resins produce parts with high stiffness, detail and a smooth surface. The low cost of resins, from $250 per liter, makes them ideal for prototypes.

The color of the resin also affects its properties. For example, in FormLabs products, gray resin is suitable for models with fine details, and white resin for parts that require the smoothest possible surface.

Benefits of using Standard resins:

Cons Standard:

Also included in the class of "Standard" photopolymer resins from FormLabs is the Color KIT - a set of special dyes and "Color Base" photopolymer resin for mixing and obtaining a variety of color solutions. This eliminates the need for painting parts after 3D printing.


FormLabs Engineering Photopolymer Resins

Engineering resins have a range of properties for injection molded plastics.

All engineering resins require additional UV curing, such as using the Form Cure, to achieve their maximum properties.

Tough photopolymer resin - Tough (similar to ABS)

Tough resin was developed for models that need to withstand high loads and be durable.

This material produces strong, shatter-resistant parts and functional prototypes such as snap-on housings.

Pros:

Cons:

Ideal for: functional prototypes, mechanical parts




Durable photopolymer resin - Durable


Durable resin is a wear-resistant and flexible material with mechanical properties similar to polypropylene.

Durable photopolymer produces models with a smooth glossy surface and high resistance to deformation.

Durable Resin is ideal for:


• Bushings and bearings;
  
• Various functional compounds

Pros:

Cons:

• Not suitable for thin wall parts (recommended minimum wall thickness 1mm)

• Low heat distortion temperature

• Low flexural strength (lower than hard resin)

Ideal for: functional prototypes.




Refractory Photopolymer Resin - Formlabs High Temp Resin

The heat resistant resin is ideal for parts that require high temperature resistance and operate at high temperatures.

Formlabs High Temp Resin provides the highest melting point (HDT): 238°C at 0.45 MPa.

The resin should be used to print detailed, accurate prototypes with high heat resistance.

Pros:

Cons:

Flexible Resin

Rubber-like resin allows flexible parts to be made. This material has a low tensile strength and high elongation at break and is well suited for parts that will be bent or compressed.

It can also be used to add ergonomic features to multi-material assemblies such as: dies, wearable prototypes, handles, pads and grips.

Pros:

• High flexibility (high elongation at break)

• Low hardness (simulates 80A durometer rubber)

• High impact resistance

Cons:


• Doesn't have all the properties of real rubber

• Requires extensive support structures

• Material properties deteriorate over time as the part is exposed to ultraviolet radiation (sunlight)

• Not suitable for thin wall parts (recommended minimum wall thickness 1mm)

Ideal for flexible prototyping.

Ceramic photopolymer resin - Rigid Resin

This resin is reinforced with glass, which provides very high rigidity and a polished surface. The polymer is very resistant to deformation and is excellent for 3D printing thin elements.

Ideal for: molds and tooling, jigs, manifolds, retainers, electrical and automotive fixture housings

Thermal management components printed with SLA ceramic (hard) resin. Image credit: Formlabs

How to choose the right resin for your application

The table below shows the main mechanical properties of photopolymers for SLA:

Source: Formlabs

Standard resin ( standart ) has high tensile strength but is very brittle (very low elongation at break) so it is not suitable for functional parts. The ability to create a good part surface makes it ideal for visual prototypes and art models.

durable ( durable ) resin has the highest impact strength and elongation at break of any other SLA material. Best suited for prototyping parts with moving parts and latches. It lacks, however, the strength of thermoplastic 3D printing materials such as SLA nylon.

tough tough resin is a compromise between the material properties of tough and standard resin. It has a high tensile strength, so it is best suited for rigid parts that require high hardness.

heat resistant resin ( heat resistant ) can withstand temperatures above 200 ^o o C, but has poor impact strength and is even more brittle than standard resin.

ceramic ( ceramic reinforce ) resin has the highest tensile strength and flexural modulus, but is brittle (poor elongation at break and toughness). This resin is preferred for thin wall parts that require increased rigidity.

The graphs below compare the mechanical properties of the most common SLA materials visually:

Comparison chart for elongation at break and toughness for common SLA printing specifications and standard media. Image courtesy of Formlabs.

Stress-strain curves for conventional SLA technologies and standard materials. Image credit: Formlabs

Comparative chart of material properties of various technical resins. Image credit: Formlabs.

Dental and medical resins



Photopolymer resin for medical devices - Custom Medical Appliances (Bios Class 1 biocompatible resins can be used to make medical equipment such as surgical guides. Parts printed on this resin can be steam sterilized in an autoclave for direct use in the operating room.

Pros:

Cons:


• Moderate wear and tear resistance

Ideal for: Surgical aids and appliances

Dental Long Term Biocompatible Resin - Dental Long Term (Class 2A Biocompatible)

0465

These resins are specially formulated for long term dental fixtures. Class 2A biocompatible resins can come into contact with the human body for up to a year.

High resistance to breakage and wear make this resin ideal for making rigid cotter pins or retainers.

Pros:

Cons:


• High price

Ideal for: durable dental instruments, fracture and wear resistant medical parts, rigid cotter pins, retainers

What is the difference between class 1 and class 2a biocompatibility?


Class 1 biocompatibility rules apply to materials that are allowed to be used for:

• non-invasive devices that come into contact with intact skin

• devices for temporary use or short-term use in the mouth or ear canal or in the nasal cavity

• reusable surgical instruments

Class 2a biocompatibility rules apply to materials that are allowed to be used for:

• devices that come into contact with bodily fluids or open wounds

• devices used to introduce substances into or remove substances from the human body

• invasive short-term devices such as invasive surgical items

• long-term implantable devices placed in the teeth

Photopolymer resins in SLA 3D printing for jewelers



Jewelry resins

This material allows you to print models with fine details and a smooth surface without leaving ash or residue after burning.

---

Learn more

• 
  3D printing wilmington nc
• 
  3D printing cities
• 
  3D printer outline
• 
  Professional 3d printers review
• 
  Shapeways 3d printing
• 
  Raspberry pi 3d printer tutorial
• 
  3D printers for sale metal
• 
  Mcgill 3d printing
• 
  3D printer motherboard
• 
  Ctc 3d printer review
• 
  Creality ld002r lcd resin 3d printer