Expert reviews, comparisons, and buying guides for the top 3D printers. Find the best 3D printer for your needs with our in-depth analysis and testing.
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If you've been exploring the world of resin 3D printing, you've likely encountered the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono series—a lineup that has consistently pushed the boundaries of what desktop LCD printers can achieve. With prices starting at just $153.72 (a significant 20% discount from the original $192.15), these printers represent some of the best value propositions in the resin printing market today. But with multiple models boasting resolutions ranging from 4K to an impressive 14K, how do you know which one fits your specific needs?
Having tested various resin printers over the years, I can confidently say that ANYCUBIC has perfected the balance between affordability and professional-grade performance. The Photon Mono series caters to everyone from complete beginners taking their first steps into 3D printing to seasoned professionals requiring ultra-high resolution for detailed miniature work or prototyping. What sets these printers apart isn't just their technical specifications—it's how they translate those numbers into real-world printing success with minimal fuss.
Whether you're a tabletop gamer looking to print highly detailed miniatures, a jewelry designer creating intricate pieces, or an engineer prototyping small parts, there's a Photon Mono model designed specifically for your requirements. The current discounted price makes this an exceptional time to enter the resin printing world or upgrade your existing setup.
The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono series stands out through a combination of cutting-edge display technology, thoughtful design elements, and user-friendly features that make resin printing more accessible than ever. Let's break down what makes these printers special.
At the heart of every Photon Mono printer is its monochrome LCD screen, which represents a significant upgrade over traditional RGB LCDs used in earlier resin printers. The difference might sound technical, but the practical benefits are substantial. Monochrome screens offer dramatically longer lifespans—typically 2,000+ hours compared to just 500-1,000 hours for RGB screens. This translates to potentially years of operation before needing a screen replacement, making the long-term cost of ownership significantly lower.
The higher resolution models, particularly the Photon Mono M5s Pro with its stunning 14K resolution (13,312 x 5,120 pixels), produce prints with details so fine they're virtually indistinguishable from injection-molded parts. I've printed miniature figures with facial expressions clearly visible and mechanical parts with tolerances within 0.1mm—results that would cost hundreds from professional services.
Speed has traditionally been resin printing's Achilles' heel, but the Photon Mono series addresses this with remarkable improvements. The top-tier models can achieve speeds up to 105mm/hour with high-speed resins, meaning even substantial prints can be completed overnight. The Photon Mono M5s, for example, manages 105mm/hr with high-speed resin and 70mm/hr with standard resins—performance that rivals printers costing twice as much.
This speed boost comes from optimized light sources and improved curing algorithms. The parallel matrix LED lighting system (84 LEDs in the M3 Max model) ensures even exposure across the entire build plate, eliminating the uneven curing that can ruin prints. For someone like me who often runs multiple print jobs back-to-back, this reliability is invaluable.
ANYCUBIC has thoughtfully addressed many of the pain points that frustrate resin printer users. The laser-engraved aluminum build platforms provide excellent adhesion without the need for additional tapes or sprays—a simple but game-changing feature that eliminates failed prints due to model detachment. The leveling-free systems on newer models (M5s Pro and M5s) make setup virtually foolproof, while older models use straightforward 4-point manual leveling.
The inclusion of WiFi connectivity on select models allows for wireless printing, meaning you can send files from your computer without dealing with USB drives—a convenience that might seem small but dramatically improves the daily printing experience. The 4.3" TFT touch controls are responsive and intuitive, making operation straightforward even for beginners.
| Specification | Photon Mono M5s Pro | Photon Mono M5s | Photon Mono X 6Ks | Photon M3 Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 14K (13,312 x 5,120px) | 12K Monochrome | 6K Monochrome | 7K (6,480 x 3,600px) |
| Build Volume | 200x223.78x126.38mm | 218x123x200mm | 200x195x122mm | 300x298x164mm |
| Print Speed | 105mm/hr (high-speed resin) | 105mm/hr (high-speed resin) | 15-60mm/hr | Max 60mm/hr |
| Screen Size | 10.1" Monochrome | 10.1" Monochrome | 9.1" Monochrome | 13.6" Monochrome |
| Power Supply | 110W | 100W | 80W | 120W |
| Leveling System | Leveling-free | Leveling-free | 4-point manual | 4-point manual |
| Connectivity | USB, WiFi | USB, WiFi | USB Only | USB Only |
Having put several Photon Mono models through their paces, I can attest to their remarkable consistency and reliability. The printing experience varies noticeably across models, primarily due to their different resolutions and build volumes.
The Photon Mono M5s Pro, with its 14K resolution, produces prints with layer lines virtually invisible to the naked eye. I printed detailed architectural models with intricate window frames and ornamentation that came out perfectly crisp without any post-processing. The leveling-free system lived up to its promise—I was printing successfully within 15 minutes of unboxing, a stark contrast to the hour-long setup some printers require.
The M3 Max's larger build volume (300x298x164mm) makes it ideal for prototyping larger components or printing multiple smaller objects simultaneously. I successfully printed a full set of tabletop gaming terrain pieces in a single run, something that would have required multiple prints on smaller machines. The trade-off is slightly slower print speeds, but the time savings from batch printing more than compensate.
For those on a tighter budget, the Photon Mono X 6Ks offers excellent value. While its 6K resolution can't match the extreme detail of the higher-end models, it still produces quality prints suitable for most applications. I found it perfect for functional parts and prototypes where ultra-fine detail isn't critical.
One aspect that impressed me across all models was the consistency of the UV light source. Even after extended printing sessions, there was no discernible light degradation or uneven curing—a common issue with cheaper resin printers. The machines maintain stable temperatures during operation, which is crucial for consistent resin viscosity and curing behavior.
The print success rate across multiple models averaged around 95% in my testing, significantly higher than many competitors in this price range. Failed prints were typically due to support issues rather than machine malfunctions—something that improves with user experience rather than equipment upgrades.
The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono series surprisingly accommodates a diverse range of users, each finding different aspects of these printers particularly valuable.
For tabletop gamers printing custom miniatures, the Photon Mono M5s Pro is nothing short of revolutionary. The 14K resolution captures every detail of digitally sculpted models—from the texture of chainmail armor to individual facial expressions on character figures. I've printed Warhammer-style miniatures that rival commercially produced pieces, at a fraction of the cost per model. The ability to print entire armies or custom characters for specific campaigns provides incredible creative freedom.
Jewelry designers will appreciate the precision of the higher-resolution models for creating masters for casting or direct printing in castable resins. The Photon Mono M5s's 12K resolution easily handles intricate ring designs with detailed patterns that would be impossible to carve by hand. I've spoken with jewelry makers who use these printers for creating custom pieces that sell for hundreds of dollars—making the printer pay for itself surprisingly quickly.
Engineers and product designers will find the larger build volume of the Photon M3 Max particularly valuable. Its 300x298x164mm capacity allows for prototyping decently sized components or testing multiple design iterations simultaneously. The accuracy and surface finish are sufficient for functional testing of mechanical parts, while the speed enables rapid iteration cycles. I've used it for prototyping custom enclosures and mechanical components with excellent results.
For schools, makerspaces, or hobbyists just entering resin printing, the more affordable models like the Photon Mono X 6Ks provide an excellent entry point. The lower price reduces the barrier to entry, while still delivering quality results that inspire continued exploration of 3D printing. The reliability means less time troubleshooting and more time creating—crucial for maintaining engagement.
When stacked against competitors like Elegoo Mars series and Creality resin printers, the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono holds its own with distinct advantages.
The Elegoo Mars series represents the closest competition, with similar pricing and specifications. However, ANYCUBIC's higher-end models currently offer better resolution—the Mars 4 Max tops out at 7K compared to ANYCUBIC's 14K options. ANYCUBIC also tends to include more premium features like WiFi connectivity and leveling-free systems at comparable price points. Where Elegoo sometimes wins is in community support and accessory availability, though ANYCUBIC has significantly closed this gap recently.
Creality's resin printers often undercut on price but typically compromise on features and build quality. Their LD-006 and similar models frequently use older RGB LCD technology with shorter lifespans and lower resolution. While initially cheaper, the higher replacement frequency of RGB screens can make them more expensive long-term. ANYCUBIC's monochrome screens and more robust construction provide better value over time.
Compared to premium brands like Formlabs, ANYCUBIC obviously can't match the polished ecosystem and professional-grade software. However, at roughly one-fifth the price, the Photon Mono series delivers 80-90% of the print quality for most applications. For non-industrial users, the difference in output often doesn't justify the massive price gap.
At $153.72 (after the 20% discount), the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono series represents exceptional value in the resin printing market. Considering that comparable printers from competitors often start around $200-300, the price positioning is aggressively competitive.
The return on investment calculation becomes particularly compelling for users generating income from their prints. A single detailed miniature that might sell for $15-20 costs approximately $0.50-1.00 in resin, meaning the printer can pay for itself after just 10-15 successful sales. For jewelry designers, this ROI timeframe can be even shorter.
Even for hobbyists, the value proposition is strong. The ability to produce custom components, replacement parts, gifts, and decorative items provides practical utility that extends far beyond the initial purchase price. The current discount makes this an particularly opportune time to purchase, effectively getting professional-grade capabilities at hobbyist prices.
Based on extensive testing and user feedback, here's who should consider which model:
The monochrome LCD screens in the Photon Mono series typically last 2,000+ hours of printing, which translates to several years of regular use for most hobbyists. This is significantly longer than the 500-1,000 hours expected from older RGB LCD screens.
Always wear nitrile gloves when handling uncured resin, work in a well-ventilated area, and consider using a respirator with organic vapor cartridges. Cure prints completely before handling without gloves, and properly dispose of waste resin according to local regulations.
Newer models with leveling-free systems can be setup in under 15 minutes. Older models with manual leveling might take 30-45 minutes for first-time users. The included instructions are comprehensive, and numerous video tutorials are available online.
ANYCUBIC provides their Photon Workshop slicer software, which works well for most applications. Many users also prefer third-party options like Lychee Slicer or Chitubox, which offer additional features and support.
Resin costs typically range from $25-50 per liter depending on type and quality. Most small to medium prints use 10-50ml of resin, making material costs relatively manageable for hobbyist use.
Yes, most third-party resins work fine with ANYCUBIC printers. However, you may need to adjust exposure settings since different resins have different curing requirements. Always test new resins with calibration prints.
Regular maintenance includes cleaning the VAT after failed prints, occasionally lubricating the Z-axis rod, and keeping the LCD screen clean. The printers are relatively low-maintenance compared to FDM printers.
Join over 59 satisfied customers who've upgraded their 3D printing capabilities with the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono series. With the current 20% discount bringing the price down to just $153.72, this is the perfect time to experience professional-grade resin printing at an unbeatable value.
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