Choosing a Printer

When deciding on which resin 3D printer to buy, the first question you should ask yourself is what size models do you plan on printing?

Build Volume

Printers can be categorized into 3 primary size classifications based on their Build Volume. Build Volume is the maximum size of an object that a 3D printer is capable of producing.

Small

Small printers include models such as the Phrozen Sonic Mini series or Elegoo Mars series. Small printers are great for beginners who are just getting started and only plan on printing small miniatures.

Mid-Size

Mid-size printers include models such as the Phrozen Sonic Mighty series or Elegoo Saturn series. Their increased build volume allows you to print large miniatures, making it a great choice for those who plan on printing monsters and heroes.

Large

Large printers include models such as the Phrozen Sonic Mega series or Elegoo Jupiter series. Large printers have a massive build volume, which is well suited for print farms, printing statuettes or printing extra large miniatures.

Resolution (Pixel Size)

For LCD resin printers, the XY resolution is determined by the pixel size, not the pixel count (4k, 8k etc)! For example, the Sonic Mighty 8k has a 10" screen with an XY resolution of 28.5um. The Sonic Mini 8k has a 7.1" screen with an XY resolution of 22um. Even though both printers have an 8k screen, the sonic mini gives better resolution.

Any LCD printer with an XY resolution of 50um or smaller will give you great results. If you can get a 30um option, even better! Once you start dealing with resolutions smaller than 30um, the difference in print quality is minuscule and should not be your deciding factor.