Written by Abigail July 16, 2024 Update
Resin 3D Printers Industry Insights
The resin 3D printer industry is a dynamic field that has seen significant growth and innovation, particularly as we move through 2024. Resin 3D printers, known for their ability to produce highly detailed and complex objects, are becoming increasingly prevalent across various sectors, from medical to manufacturing.
Investment and Growth
Investment in the resin 3D printing sector is on the rise, with a focus on enhancing the capabilities of these machines. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize the design process, allowing for more complex and optimized structures. Additionally, the industry is expected to see a normalization of valuations, leading to more sustainable growth and development.
Supply Chain Innovation
Supply chain innovation remains a hot topic within the industry. Resin 3D printers are increasingly being used to mitigate disruptions by enabling on-demand production and reducing the need for extensive inventory. This shift towards a more agile manufacturing model is reshaping how businesses approach production and logistics.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the future, resin 3D printers will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the manufacturing landscape. Resin printers' ability to produce high-quality prototypes quickly and efficiently makes them invaluable tools for businesses looking to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Image Source: MatterHacker
How does a resin 3D printer work?
The answer lies in a process that transforms liquid into solid, layer by layer, to bring intricate designs to life.
Resin 3D printing is a dance of light and chemistry. The process uses ultraviolet (UV) light to cure photopolymer resins, converting them from a dense state into hardened plastic. This process, known as photopolymerization, is precise and allows for an exceptional level of detail, making resin printers ideal for applications requiring fine features and smooth surfaces.
Latest Top Resin 3D Printers (Update on May 7, 2024)
1. Formlabs Form 4 (Launched on April 17, 2024)
Meet the Formlabs Form 4, the latest innovation in resin 3D printing that sets a new benchmark for speed, accuracy, and reliability. Building upon years of industry-leading advancements, Form 4 is designed to meet the demanding needs of professionals across various industries. With a revolutionary print engine and a comprehensive library of 23 unique resins, the Form 4 delivers parts with impeccable detail and surface finish in record time.
The Form 4’s exceptional speed ensures that most parts are ready in under two hours without compromising on dimensional accuracy. With a 30% larger build volume and enhanced tolerances, your designs are not only brought to life quickly but also with the precision you demand, instilling confidence in your 3D printing process.
Image Source: Formlabs
2. Formlabs Form 4B (Launched on April 17, 2024)
The Formlabs Form 4B is specifically engineered for medical and dental professionals. This innovative printer combines unprecedented speed with surgical precision, making it an indispensable tool for creating high-quality, sterilizable anatomical models and biocompatible medical devices.
With Form 4B, practitioners can expect a fourfold increase in speed and a 30% larger build volume compared to its predecessors. It’s not just about speed; the Form 4B ensures consistently accurate prints across the entire build platform, with the smoothest surfaces and sharpest details achievable in the industry today.
The Form 4B is a complete ecosystem designed to streamline the medical 3D printing experience. From validated print settings and intelligent control systems to long-lasting consumables and remote monitoring, every aspect of Form 4B has been optimized for reliability and ease of use.
Image Source: Formlabs
3. Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra (Launched on April 15, 2024)
The Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra, with its unmatched 12K resolution on a 10-inch monochrome LCD, ensures every detail of your print is captured with precision. This, coupled with its lightning-fast speed of up to 150mm/h, instills confidence in its capabilities.
The Saturn 4 Ultra, featuring the Innovative Tilt Release Technology, peels off models from the release film swiftly, significantly reducing the time spent on post-processing. The COB + Fresnel Collimating Lens system ensures uniform light distribution, guaranteeing consistent and flawless prints. These time-saving features will surely relieve you of the post-processing burden.
With features like Auto Leveling & Intelligent Mechanical Sensor, AI Intelligent Monitoring, and Power-Loss Resume Printing, this printer ensures a smooth and stress-free 3D printing process.
Image Source: Elegoo
4. Raise3D DF2 Solution (Launched on November 7, 2023)
The Raise3D DF2 solution is a Digital Light Printing (DLP) 3D printer that stands out in the market for its exceptional precision, repeatability, and reliability. Designed for small-batch production, this printer is an ideal choice for professionals who demand the highest quality in their prints.
With a generous build size of 200 × 112 × 300 mm and an XY resolution of 2560 x 1440, the Raise3D DF2 can handle large prints or multiple small parts with ease. The maximum part weight of 10 kg and a printing speed of 25 mm/h makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.
The printer’s Touch Screen Control Panel with Magic Layout allows users to adjust the print layout and duplicate prints easily. At the same time, the RFID Print Platform records the type of resin used along with the printing, washing, and curing settings. Factory-calibrated level calibration and chamber heating up to 40℃ ensure that your prints come out perfect every time.
Image Source: Raise3D
5. HeyGears UltraCraft Reflex (Launched on July 18, 2023)
The HeyGears UltraCraft Reflex is designed for both professionals and consumers, offering a one-stop production platform that combines high print accuracy with consistent final results.
The UltraCraft Reflex stands out with its TrueUV Light Source System, which produces commercial-grade results with injection-molded-like quality. The variable wavelength UV auto-matches with specific resin materials, enhancing the final results. With the Auto Resin Refill & Heated Tray, the UltraCraft Reflex identifies the resin type, monitors the resin level, and automatically refills resin when necessary, all while maintaining the optimum printing temperature.
Image Source: HeyGears
Best Resin 3D Printers of 2024
With a plethora of options available, choosing the right resin 3D printer can be daunting. To assist you, we’ve curated a list of top performers that have set the standard for quality, reliability, and innovation.
Top Resin 3D Printers
1. Anycubic Photon M3: Best Overall
The Anycubic Photon M3 stands out with its high-speed SLA printing capabilities and excellent 4K+ print quality. It’s user-friendly, compact, and offers a wider build plate for larger models.
Image Source: Anycubic
2. Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S: Best 8K 3D Printer
Ideal for scaling up your resin printing or for commercial-scale production, the Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S boasts a large format that rivals standard FDM printers.
Image Source: Phrozen
3. Anycubic Photon Mono M5s: Best High-Resolution Resin 3D Printer
At an affordable price point, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s delivers 12K resolution prints with a generous build volume, setting a new standard for detail in resin printing.
Image Source: Anycubic
4. Anycubic Photon Mono X: Best for Large Resin Prints
The Anycubic Photon Mono X is praised for its build volume and feature set, making it a top choice for those requiring larger print capabilities.
Image Source: Anycubic
5. Creality Halot-One: Best Affordable Resin 3D Printer
For hobbyists or beginners, the Creality Halot-One provides a robust feature set without breaking your budget, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Image Source: Creality
6. Prusa SL1S Speed: Fastest High-Resolution Resin Printer
For speed and resolution, the Prusa SL1S Speed is unmatched, offering rapid printing without compromising on the intricate details that resin printers are known for.
Image Source: Prusa
Whether you’re a hobbyist, a professional, or looking to start a print farm, this list includes a resin 3D printer that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Resin Printers for Beginners
For beginners, the key is to find a resin printer that balances simplicity with the ability to produce high-quality prints. We recommend Elegoo Mars 3 to 3D printing beginners. The Elegoo Mars 3 is renowned for its user-friendly interface and extensive online community support. With numerous tutorials available, beginners can quickly learn the ropes and start creating detailed prints with confidence.
Elegoo Mars 3: Best Resin 3D Printer for Beginners
With a wealth of tutorials available, the Elegoo Mars 3 is perfect for those new to resin 3D printing, offering an easy entry point into the craft.
Image Source: Elegoo
Considerations for First-Time Users
While resin printers can produce stunningly detailed objects, they do require the handling of chemicals and post-processing of prints. To ensure the best results and safe practices, beginners should follow safety guidelines, such as using gloves and masks, and learn proper post-processing techniques.
Industrial Resin Printers
Industrial resin 3D printers are known for their large build volumes and ability to maintain incredible detail. They are the go-to choice for professionals who require both size and precision.
Top Industrial Resin 3D Printers of 2024
1. Formlabs Form 3L: Best Professional Resin Printer
The Formlabs Form 3L stands out for its exceptional print quality and large build area. It is ideal for prototyping large and complex products like automotive parts, architectural models, and medical devices.
Image Source: Formlabs
2. Anycubic Photon M3 Max: Best Affordable Printer for Large Resin Parts
Offering a generous build volume at an affordable price, the Anycubic Photon M3 Max is the best budget option for those needing to print large resin objects without compromising on detail.
Image Source: Anycubic
Desktop Resin Printers
Desktop Resin Printers: Compact Yet Mighty
Desktop resin printers have carved a niche for themselves by offering the precision of industrial-grade printers in a form factor that fits comfortably in home or office.
The Best Desktop Resin Printers
1. Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K: Best High-Precision Resin 3D Printer
The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K is renowned for its super precise printing capabilities, offering an 8K resolution and a compact build volume suitable for detailed miniatures and intricate jewelry designs.
Image Source: Phrozen
2. Elegoo Mars 4: Best Budget Resin Printer
The Elegoo Mars 4 strikes a balance between affordability and quality, making it an excellent option for hobbyists or those just starting with resin printing.
Image Source: Elegoo
This resin printers guide offers a detailed look into the resin 3D printing industry, covering everything from industry insights to specific printer recommendations for various needs and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, there’s a resin 3D printer to bring your creative visions to life.
