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Photon 3d printer review


Anycubic Photon M3 3D Printer Review: Accessible, Premium Resin Printing

If you're looking to get into the wonderful world of at-home 3D printing, you must start by making a significant choice: Printing from a plastic spool of material (Fused Deposition Modeling) or building your models from liquid resin (Stereolithography). FDM, the more common type of 3D printer, relies on spools of material extruded through a nozzle to create 3D shapes layer by layer. FDM printers tend to be cheaper and easier to use, which is why they make up four of our top five best 3D printer picks. 

The other type, SLA, relies on creating 3D prints in vats of photopolymer resins that hardens layer by microscopic layer when exposed to UV light, a laser or LCD to form complex shapes... literally pulling the shape from a pool of liquid as you go. 

9.0

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Like

  • Great quality prints
  • Easy setup
  • Includes all you need
  • Priced right

Don't Like

  • Requires ventilation and extra safety gear
  • Software needs work
  • No built-in Wi-Fi.

You could write a doctoral thesis comparing and contrasting the pros and cons of these technologies, but SLA printers get a bad rap for their tiny build volumes and noxious chemicals. While airborne microplastics are a concern with FDM printing, when it comes to SLA printers you're talking about highly volatile fumes from both the resin itself and the large amounts of isopropyl alcohol needed to process the prints.

Anycubic has created a simple workflow to make that process as easy as possible: The new, $299 Anycubic Photon M3 is a high-quality (but still entry-level) model that offers a usable amount of build space and remarkably good prints.

The M3 has a maximum build volume of 18.0x16.3x10.2 centimeters, which means the biggest part you can print would be roughly 7 inches tall, 6 inches wide and 4 inches thick. That's far from massive, but it is a nice upgrade over the 16.5x13x8-cm build volume of Anycubic's cheaper Photon Mono. More impressive, though, is the upgrade in resolution. (Higher resolution means more detail can come through in prints.) The Mono has a build resolution of 2,560x1,620 pixels; the Photon M3 nearly doubles that to 4,098x2,560 pixels.

Printing keyboard keys. Partially failed thanks to too few supports, but those keys that survived look fantastic.

Tim Stevens

The Photon M3 can certainly deliver, but before you get there you have to get the thing set up, a process that Anycubic has thankfully made remarkably easy. Most of my printing experience is in the FDM world, where it's not uncommon to spend hours fussing and tweaking before you can start to expect consistent prints.

With the Photon M3, I finished my first test print less than an hour after I took the printer out of the box. Anycubic even includes resin filters, a set of gloves, a scraper to get prints off the bed and masks in the box -- though you'll want to upgrade to a proper respirator if you're sensitive to fumes like I am.

And that first print? It was crisp and clean and perfect, light-years beyond anything I could ever hope to get from my Prusa MK3S. The test cube was printed on a perfectly spherical base, its embossed text as good as something I'd expect from a laser printer. 

It should be no surprise given the resolution of the printer is greater than that of a 4K TV, despite the LCD measuring just over 7 inches diagonally. That is some serious pixel density.

The resolution of the printer is greater than that of a 4K TV, despite the LCD measuring just over 7 inches diagonally. That is some serious pixel density.  

Next, I printed an original NCC-1701 Enterprise barely bigger than my thumb, yet with enough detail to make out individual lines on the hull. I also created some contoured keys for my ergo mechanical keyboard and they came out superb, far smoother than those I printed on my Prusa 3D printer. 

But all those prints also required some extensive post-processing, far more than an FDM printer: Resin prints need to be washed thoroughly in a bath of near-pure alcohol to rinse away excess material, then cured under UV light (or sunlight) for final hardening. And then there are the supports. In SLA printing, your 3D objects are effectively suspended beneath a print bed that rises vertically. This usually means a tangled support structure that must be carefully broken away from the print. 

Boldly going!

Tim Stevens

Anycubic also offers a Wash and Cure Plus station, a $229 device that helps automate the washing and curing processes. Even so, you're looking at upward of 30 minutes' worth of fiddling with prints after they come out of the printer. And it must be careful fiddling: I broke a few smaller, finer prints while trying to pluck away the supports. 

That post-processing is a proper pain, as is having to filter and drain that vat of toxic goo back into the bottle if you won't be using the Photon M3 for a while. But that's not a fault of this particular printer so much as it is the nature of resin printing.

Working with resin is a real drag, but if you don't mind the headaches the prints are remarkable.

Tim Stevens

One thing I will fault this printer for, however, is the software. Anycubic includes a copy of Photon Workshop on a thumb drive with the printer, and it's a reasonably comprehensive way of loading models and generating supports before prepping them for the printer -- which, by the way, exclusively prints via thumb drive. 

However, I found Photon Workshop lacking when it came to helping me figure out the a print's ideal orientation. I had a number of failed prints when the automatic support generation left details of my models unsupported. I tried numerous software options and found the Prusa Slicer app did a much better job of automatically orienting and supporting prints. So I wound up using that to do much of my prep work, then exported models to Photon Workshop for the final slicing. In the scheme of things that's a minor annoyance and, since Prusa Slicer is free, it's an easy fix.  

Overall, I was really impressed with the Anycubic Photon M3. It's priced just right at $299, is easy to set up and even remarkably quiet when printing. If you've been tempted to dive into resin printing, particularly if you're looking to raise the stakes at your next tabletop gaming session, this is a great place to start.

Anycubic Photon M3 3D printer review

TechRadar Verdict

The Anycubic Photon M3 is an excellent resin printer for beginners who want to start making high-quality designs with minimal experience; our only major gripe is that the print size is a little smaller than we’d like.

Pros
  • +

    Budget-friendly

  • +

    Models are detailed

  • +

    Easy to use

Cons
  • -

    The print size is a bit small

  • -

    Requires ventilation

  • -

    Poorly placed USB port

Why you can trust TechRadar Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

One-minute review

If you’re looking for an entry-level resin printer to get you started in the world of 3D printing, you can’t do much better than the Anycubic Photon M3.

This easy-to-use machine can be assembled and calibrated in no time at all – even if you’re a complete novice. The instruction booklet will take you through everything step-by-step, though when you get to the part where you’re told to print the provided test model we’d recommend not doing that (more on that in the Performance section).

Along with your Anycubic Photon M3 you’ll get a mask, latex gloves, and a few printing accessories like scrapers and resin funnels. The only thing missing is some UV resin, but once you’ve got that you’ll be good to go.

Place this machine in a well-ventilated workspace and you’ll be able to print some incredibly detailed models because of its 7.6-inch 4K+ LCD screen. The only downside when it comes to printing is that the maximum volume is a little on the small side at just 180 x 163. 9 x 102.4mm / 7 x 6.5 x 4-inches.

That said, considering that the Anycubic Photon M3 is priced at just $299 (about £300 / AU$480) it’s a relatively minor limitation if you’re after a budget-friendly 3D printer – especially as the M3 makes relatively few compromises in other departments.

  • Easy to set up
  • Compact machine, but poorly placed USB port
  • Touchscreen control panel

AnyCubic’s Photon M3 is a single-screw resin printer, with a yellow-colored hood to keep your liquid resin from hardening prematurely due to external UV light.

The device arrives in a well-packaged box, with foam and plastic keeping it protected from dents and scratches during shipping. Once you open it up, putting everything together takes a matter of minutes.

There’s barely anything to assemble – you just have to attach the build plate and tray to the printer, and screws are a piece of cake to install without any assistance. The calibration process is simple too if you follow the instructions.

(Image credit: Future)

On the front of the printer is the touchscreen control panel, and on the right side is the USB port, into which you can plug a stick containing the various designs you want to create. 

This port is the source of our only major design gripe, as we’d prefer it to be on the front, to avoid having the stick jut out in an awkward direction. If you’ve measured your workspace and you’ve only got barely enough space for this machine (it measures 425 x 269 x 256mm / 16.7 x 10.6 x 10.1 inches) you might need to rethink your 3D printer choice, as you’ll need a few inches on the side to leave room for the USB stick.

Along with the printer, you get a few accessories in the box to help with your first builds. There are some latex gloves to keep the resin off your hands, paper filters to help with cleaning resign, a face mask to provide some protection against fumes, and a USB drive that’s loaded with the software you need to slice STLs.

For the uninitiated, this software chops (or slices) your 3D model (which is typically saved as an STL) into many hundreds of layers and packages them into a separate file that the Photon M3 can read. When you then print that new file, the M3 will go layer by layer steadily forming the object out of resin.

On top of the items above you’ll also find two scrapers, one made of metal and another of plastic. We’d recommend opting for the plastic scraper to remove your printed models from the build plate unless it’s absolutely necessary, as the metal one can cause damage if you aren’t careful. If you’re trying to remove failed prints from the FEP sheet in the resin tray, then ignore the metal scrapper completely.

Features 

  • 4K+ 7.6-inch LCD screen
  • Includes Photon Workshop slicing software on USB stick
  • No air filter or rubber seal

The Photon M3 uses a 7.6-inch LCD with a 4K+ resolution (4,096 x 2,560 pixels). You’ll get an XY resolution of 0.04mm, or 40 microns – here the smaller the number the better, as it leads to finer detailing in your prints.

Unlike more premium resin printers, the Anycubic Photon M3 lacks any kind of air filter or rubber seal, so alongside wearing gloves and a mask you’ll need to make sure you use it in a well-ventilated room. You also won’t want to be spending much time in the same space without a mask on – so if your workshop doubles as a home office you might want to rethink your layout a bit (or opt for a printer with its own filter).

Before you start printing, the build plate will need leveling, and helpfully the Photon M3 has a feature that can do this automatically. If you’ve followed the instructions then you’ll calibrate it as part of the setup process, but if you haven’t done this you’ll need just one tool: a regular sheet of paper (one is included in the box).

Simply remove the resin tray, put the paper directly on top of the screen, open up the Z-axis settings and press the home button. The build plate will gently lower itself until it’s lightly pressed against the paper; you then hit the Z=0 option and you’re all done – raise the bed up, remove the paper and reinstall the tray.

(Image credit: Future)

Last but not least, is AnyCubic’s Photon Workshop slicing software (which is loaded onto the packed-in USB stick). This digital tool offers everything you need to be able to prepare prints, including basic model manipulation to make them bigger/smaller and move them around the build plate. You can also add in supports to reduce the chances that a print will fail, but be careful with the auto-support option.

This feature is helpful, but can be a bit hit or miss – you may need to move supports around or add/remove some to get the best-quality prints possible. You’ll also need to make sure the settings are calibrated to your printer model and the resin you’re using, but this is easy enough to change in the application.

Performance 

  • Highly detailed and excellent quality prints
  • Perfect for Dungeons and Dragons minis and smaller statuettes
  • The smaller resin tray restricts the maximum model size

Using Anycubic’s own white-colored resin we put the Photon M3 through its paces by printing some standard 'torture tests’, or benchmarks if you prefer. In every example the printer performed admirably; our larger structures (like this castle and bridge ) were created with no noticeable warping, and minute details on the AmeraLabs Town were rendered perfectly.

We got the same excellent print quality when we tried printing some standard role-playing game minis of characters from our Dungeons and Dragons campaign. The details on our bard’s mustachioed face and intricate clothing were translated expertly from the digital file into real life, and our winged paladin looks like they might actually take off.

Our only issue is that the Photon M3’s resin tray is a tad smaller than some may like. If you’re hoping to create an epic-scale model to decorate your desk or want to create full-size costume props as a single piece then you may want to opt for one of Anycubic’s larger printers.

Look at our bard, his harp and shield are printed with great detail (Image credit: Future)

You’ll also want to watch out when printing Anycubic’s test model. Because the model is built straight onto the build plate, removing it without damaging anything can be a nightmare.

The structure is neat, but we’d recommend loading the STL file into Photon Workshop first. Once it’s loaded up, raise the digital model off the bed by about 5mm, and then use the auto-platform feature so that it’s held in the air by easy-to-remove supports.

If you end up with the model cemented to your build plate though, don’t panic. You can either grab a razor window scraper that might be able to just slide underneath, or you can pour boiling water over the plate to try and dislodge the model.

Buy it if...

You want to print detailed models
Be it minis for a tabletop game or desktop statuettes, this printer’s 4K+ screen is perfect for creating beautiful, finely detailed prints. 

You want something simple
The Photon M3 is easy to assemble and easier to use – just make sure to follow all of the recommended safety precautions. 

You’re on a budget
At $299 (about £275 / AU$480) this is a fairly budget-friendly option for those looking to get their first resin printer or another for their expanding workshop.  

Don’t buy it if...

You want to print something massive
With a build volume of only 180 x 163.9 x 102.4mm / 7 x 6.5 x 4-inches, you’ll find the Photon M3 isn’t the best for printing massive models or larger cosplay pieces. 

You don’t have a dedicated room for it
Because of the fumes, you can’t have this resin printer set up in any old room – you’ll need to house it in a well-ventilated space, and preferably not in direct sunlight. 

You’re tight for workbench space
Because of the USB port placement, if your workbench space is only just big enough for the machine then you won’t have enough space to plug a memory stick into the side to make the Photon M3 work. 

  • Looking for something different? Check out the best 3D printers of 2022

Hamish is a Staff Writer for TechRadar and you’ll see his name appearing on articles across nearly every topic on the site from smart home deals to speaker reviews to graphics card news and everything in between. He uses his broad range of knowledge to help explain the latest gadgets and if they’re a must-buy or a fad fueled by hype. Though his specialty is writing about everything going on in the world of virtual reality and augmented reality.

Anycubic Photon M3 Max 3D Printer with Huge Print Field

Introducing the Anycubic Photon M3 Max 3D Resin Printer. This is the top model in the manufacturer's line, characterized by the highest resolution and large print area. We will tell about everything in detail in our review material...

Delivery set

So, the printer comes in a large branded box. Everything is well packed, the internal elements are in a rigid metal frame and laid with a damper sponge, fixed with ties, placed in a bag. The packaging is very reliable and of high quality, nothing will be damaged during transportation. nine0028

Tech. characteristics of 3D printer

3D printer Anycubic Photon M3 Max from a well-known Chinese manufacturer is a budget model of a photopolymer printer with a large print area that prints using DLP technology. The model was presented in 2022.

Specifications

9007 9007 9007 9007 9007 9007 9007 9007 printer
Screen 13.6-inch monochrome
Print technologies 4.3" resistive touch panel
Data input USB-A 2.0
Print size 30.0 x 29.8 x 16.4 cm 11.8 .46 in. (HWD)
Press volume 14.7 L
Power consumed 120W
Press size 59.6 x 40.8 cm
26kg

Features Anycubic Photon M3 Max

The model is equipped with a huge screen with a diagonal of 13.6 inches. The body of the 3D printer also has a large size - 29.8x16.4x30cm. This allows you to realize all your ideas. The model was originally aimed at amateurs, but it can also satisfy the needs of professionals.

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max is equipped with a high precision ball screw Z axis guide. This, together with 7K resolution, guarantees high-precision and detailed printing. nine0003

Anycubic Auto Resin Filler provides automatic resin topping and intelligent filling, a stopper for a photopolymer resin bottle that automatically tops up resin when needed. This means that the machine works really "hands-free", with little or no extra participation from you.

LED matrix light array provides powerful light output for faster printing. High detail is also achieved through a high contrast ratio of 450:1. This figure is 125% higher than most other models. The maximum print speed is 60mm per hour. A miniature 12 cm high can be printed in just a couple of hours. By comparison, most other models will do the job in 3 hours. nine0003

Laser engraved platform guarantees excellent adhesion, making 3D printing more efficient overall.

Controlled by a large and easy to use touch screen. The 3D printer is connected to the PC via USB.

Almost any resin rated for 405nm light wavelength can be used as materials.

Model benefits

  • Huge printable area; nine0028
  • Reasonable price;
  • High resolution sensor;
  • !!! Automatic polymer top-up system - an option implemented for the first time on the models of this manufacturer;
  • Engraved platform for better adhesion.

Software

Anycubic Photon M3 Max comes with Anycubic Photon Workshop proprietary slicer. In principle, it is compatible with all models of 3D printers from this manufacturer. The software is ideal for setting a number of print options, offers a wide variety of tools. There is absolutely no need for you to spend time and money on third-party software to prepare your model for printing. nine0003

To sum up…

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max 3D printer is a piece of equipment that will enable you to print large-scale models with the highest detail. High print quality, a huge working area for a photopolymer printer and an affordable price are the key characteristics of this model.

Photon M3 Max - new for 2022, representative of the M line from Anycubic! Worthy competition to all expensive models on the market!

Anycubic Photon Mono X 3D printer overview. Photopolymer printer

When buying a 3D printer DISCOUNT on plastics and polymers up to 10%

Overview of 3D printer Anycubic Photon Mono X

10/14/2021 Max Gusev

3D printer Anycubic Photon Mono X

printing - Photon Mono X from the well-known and widely respected manufacturer Anycubic. One glance at the model evokes a mood for a serious working mood, but this 3D printer deserves a more detailed consideration, as well as an acquaintance with the functionality. nine0003

Exterior of the printer

Even a first glance at the Photon Mono X is enough to recognize the creation of Anycubic in the machine. And it's not the logo, although it catches the eye. The first thing you notice is the branded design and the large yellow protective cap, which will leave no doubt that Anycubic is in front of you.

The model has a black all-metal housing at the bottom. Management is carried out through a 3.5-inch screen. There are two heatsinks and a USB port on the back and side of the Photon Mono X. nine0003

The 3D printer radiates stateliness and minimalism, as there are no protruding elements - a solid monolith of form and style. In terms of appearance, Photon Mono X is definitely on trend!

Printer Specifications

Photon Mono X's key features will be high quality and equally fast print speeds. This device has the highest print speed in its lineup.

Photon Mono X comes with an 8-inch 4K display. The UV light is projected in such a way that uniform curing of the resin is guaranteed. This is a proprietary proprietary technology that delivers high quality prints. The monochrome screen provides full curing of the layer in just 2 seconds. For comparison, in other models, this figure is 6 seconds. nine0003

The protective cover is highly durable and blocks out up to 99% of harmful UV radiation. The Photon Mono X is also equipped with a lid close sensor, meaning the machine will not print until you close the lid. And even if you need to open the cover during printing, the printing process will immediately pause and continue only after closing it.

The Z axis of the Photon Mono X features a special design with dual rails. This guarantees stability during printing even at high speeds. nine0003

The print area of ​​this model of 3D printer is very significant - 19.2x12x25cm.

Like most modern 3D printers, Photon Mono X has a USB port, but in addition there is also a WiFi module that allows you to control the device remotely.

Printer kit

Photon Mono X kit includes: