Best Resin 3D Printers Under $500

Resin 3D printers produce excellent prints that are highly detailed. However, the 3D printers can be a little expensive. If you are on a small budget, you may be wondering which is the best resin 3D printer under $500. Read our guide to find out.

The price of resin 3D printers has come down over the recent years. Today, it can be quite a challenge determining which resin 3D printer to buy, given the many options available on the market. If you are looking for the best resin 3D printer under 500 dollars, this article is for you.

The printers in this review provide excellent value for the price. These printers are perfect for making miniatures, jewelry and other models where you’ll want the minute details to be seen. So, whether you are a hobbyist interested in making figurines, or are an artisan wanting to incorporate 3D printing in fashion, the recommendations below are for you.

Let’s get started.

What to Know Before Buying

SLA/resin 3D printers use resin rather than filaments to print models. One of the characteristics of resin is that it produces a strong odor during the printing process. Therefore, you want a printer that has an inbuilt air filter.

However, most of the time, you will need a standalone air purifier if you will be printing a lot of items with resin 3D printers. See the recommended air purifiers for resin 3D printers.

Best Resin 3D Printers Under $500

• 1. Anycubic Photon Mono M5S

AVAILABLE ON ANYCUBIC

The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is a 12K resin 3D printer that was released in 2023. It is the first leveling-free resin printer from Anycubic, and it boasts a number of other features that make it a compelling option for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Here are some of the key features of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s:

• 12K resolution: The M5s has a 10.1-inch monochrome LCD screen with a resolution of 11520 x 5120 pixels. This is one of the highest resolutions available on a resin printer, and it results in incredibly detailed prints with smooth surfaces and sharp edges.
• Leveling-free: The M5s is the first printer from Anycubic to feature a leveling-free system. This system uses a combination of sensors and a floating platform to automatically adjust the print bed, ensuring that your prints are always level and consistent.
• Fast printing: The M5s can print at speeds of up to 105 mm/h, which is up to 3 times faster than other resin printers on the market. This is thanks to a new high-speed release film that reduces the force required to separate the print from the vat.
• Large build volume: The M5s has a build volume of 218 x 123 x 200 mm, which is large enough to print a wide variety of objects.
• Easy to use: The M5s is easy to set up and use, even for beginners. It comes with pre-sliced files for a variety of objects, and the software is easy to navigate.

Here are some of the pros and cons of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s to help you decide if it is the right printer for you:

Pros

• High resolution
• Leveling-free
• Fast printing
• Large build volume
• Easy to use

Cons

• More expensive than some other resin printers
• Requires the use of resin, which can be messy and hazardous
• Not as user-friendly as some other printers

Anycubic Photon Mono M5S Tech Specs

Our Verdict

Overall, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is an impressive resin printer that offers a number of features that make it a great option for both hobbyists and professionals. It is one of the highest resolution printers on the market, and it is also one of the fastest. The leveling-free system is a great convenience, and the large build volume makes it possible to print a wide variety of objects. If you are looking for a high-quality, fast, and easy-to-use resin printer, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is a great option to consider.

• 2. HALOT-MAGE PRO 8K Resin 3D Printer

AVAILABLE ON CREALITY

Creality produces a wide range of FDM 3D printers, such as the Ender 5 Pro. However, did you know that the company also has resin printers?

One of the SLA 3D printers under $500 from the company is Halot Mage Pro 8K Resin 3D Printer. You can start printing your models using this printer in less than 5 minutes.
Here are the features of the printer.

• Exceptional Print Quality: The 8K monochrome LCD screen with 29.7 µm XY resolution delivers exceptionally crisp and detailed prints with minimal layer lines, rivaling even higher-resolution options.
• Large Build Volume: The 228 x 128 x 230mm build volume offers ample space for printing larger objects or multiple smaller pieces in one go, catering to diverse project needs.
• Blazing-Fast Printing Speeds: Boasting speeds of up to 170mm/h, the HALOT-MAGE PRO 8K significantly outpaces many resin printers, making it ideal for high-throughput printing and reducing project wait times.
• Automated Resin Handling: The integrated smart resin pump simplifies the printing process by automatically filling and withdrawing resin, minimizing manual handling and potential messes.
• Advanced Light System: The Integral Light 3.0 technology ensures consistent and high-quality curing throughout the print with 90%+ light uniformity and 8000uw/cm2 light intensity.
• Improved Air Filtration: The upgraded air purifier with a larger activated carbon filter effectively reduces odors during printing, creating a more pleasant and safe printing environment.
• Versatile Connectivity: The HALOT-MAGE PRO 8K supports remote control and monitoring through Creality Cloud or HALOT BOX, offering flexibility and convenience. You can also print directly from a USB drive or connect a USB camera for real-time print monitoring.
• User-Friendly Features: The flip-up lid for easy access to the build platform, double-sided PEI magnetic build plate for better adhesion and removal, and intuitive interface make the printer user-friendly for both beginners and experienced users.
• Bonus: The included 1-year free Creality Cloud Premium subscription provides access to a library of high-quality models, cloud storage for your projects, and AI print detection for added convenience.

Cons

• Potential Noise: While not overly loud, some users report the printer being slightly noisier than other options. Consider placing it in a well-ventilated area if noise sensitivity is a concern.
• Resin Usage: The larger build volume and high-resolution printing can consume more resin compared to smaller printers. Factor in the cost of resin when budgeting for your projects.

HALOT-MAGE PRO 8K Specs

Verdict

The HALOT-MAGE PRO 8K stands out for its exceptional print quality, large build volume, blazing-fast speeds, automated resin handling, advanced light system, and improved air filtration. It’s a strong contender in the 8K resin printer market, particularly for users who prioritize high-quality results, efficiency, and user-friendly features. However, the potential noise require consideration before purchase.

• 3. Orange 4K Resin 3D Printer

AVAILABLE ON LONGER

The Longer Orange 4K is a resin 3D printer that has made waves in the market with its high resolution, competitive price, and user-friendly features. The key features of this 3D printer that costs less than $500 include:

• Ultra-High Precision: Boasting a 4K monochrome LCD screen with 31.5µm XY resolution (or an even higher 10.5µm resolution in the mono version), the Orange 4K delivers impressive detail and smooth surfaces in your prints.
• Dual Z-Axis Linear Guides: This ensures increased stability and minimal wobble during printing, resulting in cleaner and more accurate results.
• Easy Operation: Setting up and using the Orange 4K is straightforward thanks to its intuitive interface and simple leveling system. No prior 3D printing experience is necessary.
• Fast Printing Speeds: With speeds reaching up to 50mm/h, you can get your prints done quicker without compromising quality.
• Large Build Volume: The build platform offers a decent size of 192 x 120 x 245mm, providing space for various project sizes.
• Wide Resin Compatibility: The Orange 4K works with a variety of resins, giving you more flexibility in your choices.
• Affordable Price: Compared to other printers with similar features, the Orange 4K boasts a competitive price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts.

Cons

• Smaller Build Volume: While decent, the build volume might be limiting for users seeking to print significantly larger objects.
• Limited Community and Support: Compared to established brands, the Longer company might have a smaller online community and support resources.
• Resin Vat Issues: Some users report occasional leakage or issues with the resin vat, potentially requiring additional care or replacement.
• Software Compatibility: While compatible with Chitubox and Longerware, it might not have the same level of integration with other popular slicing software.

Longer 4K Resin 3D Printer Specs

Verdict

The Longer Orange 4K is a solid choice for beginners and hobbyists seeking a high-resolution resin printer at an affordable price. Its user-friendly features, fast printing speeds, and impressive detail make it a compelling option. However, if you need a larger build volume, extensive community support, or wider software compatibility, you might want to consider other options.

• 4. Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra 9K

AVAILABLE ON ELEGOO

The Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra 9K is a resin 3D printer that pushes the boundaries of resolution, boasting a jaw-dropping 9K monochrome LCD screen for exceptionally detailed prints. But does this high resolution translate to an equally impressive overall experience?

Here’s a closer look at its features:

• Unmatched Resolution: With a staggering 9K resolution (5120 x 2880 pixels), the Mars 4 Ultra delivers prints with unparalleled detail and minimal layer lines. This is ideal for miniature figures, jewelry, and other applications where fine details are crucial.
• Improved Speed: Compared to its predecessors, the Mars 4 Ultra offers faster printing speeds (150 mm/h max), reducing your wait times.
• Larger Build Volume: The build platform provides a decent 153.36 x 77.76 x 165 mm³ space, accommodating various project sizes.
• User-Friendly Interface: The 4-inch touchscreen and Linux operating system offer a smooth and intuitive user experience, making it easy to operate for both beginners and seasoned users.
• Improved Connectivity: The inclusion of Wi-Fi connectivity allows for remote printing and monitoring, adding convenience to your workflow.
• Metal Resin Vat: The printer comes equipped with a sturdy metal resin vat, ensuring better durability and heat dissipation.

Cons

• Anti-Aliasing Issues: Some users report issues with the anti-aliasing function not working properly, impacting print quality on certain models.
• Closed Ecosystem: The printer uses Elegoo’s proprietary slicer software, potentially limiting flexibility compared to open-source alternatives.

Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra 9K Specs

Verdict

The Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra 9K is a powerful resin printer capable of producing exceptionally detailed prints thanks to its 9K resolution. However, its limited resin compatibility and potential software issues require careful consideration before purchase. If you prioritize absolute top-tier detail and are willing to invest, the Mars 4 Ultra might be worth it.

• 5. Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S

AVAILABLE ON PHROZEN3D

The Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S promises an ultra-high resolution printing experience at an accessible price point. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s delve into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance to help you decide if it’s the right resin printer for you.

The main features of the printer include:

• Exceptional Detail: Boasting a staggering 22µm resolution, the Sonic Mini 8K S delivers exceptionally detailed prints. Imagine miniature figurines with razor-sharp features, jewelry with intricate patterns, and models with smooth, virtually layer-free surfaces. This makes it ideal for creators who demand precision and realism in their projects.
• Affordable Entry Point: Compared to other 8K resin printers, the Sonic Mini 8K S comes at a remarkably competitive price. This makes it an attractive option for beginners and hobbyists who want to explore the realm of high-resolution printing without breaking the bank.
• Durable Metal Vat: Equipped with a sturdy metal resin vat and durable FEP film, the printer ensures consistent resin handling and reduces the risk of leaks or damage. This translates to a more reliable and worry-free printing experience.
• User-Friendly Interface: The printer boasts a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy to set up and operate even for those new to 3D printing. Beginners can quickly get started, while experienced users will appreciate the streamlined workflow.
• Open Slicer Compatibility: Unlike some printers with locked ecosystems, the Sonic Mini 8K S works with a variety of popular slicers like Chitubox, Lychee, and Tango. This gives users more flexibility and control over their print settings.

Cons

• Limited Build Volume: Compared to other resin printers, the Sonic Mini 8K S offers a relatively smaller build volume (16.5 x 7.2 x 17 cm). While it caters to many projects, users seeking to print larger objects might need to consider alternatives.
• More Calibration and Tuning: Achieving optimal print quality might require more calibration and fine-tuning compared to some other printers. This can be slightly challenging for beginners and demands a bit more patience and technical know-how.
• Limited Community and Support: As a newer player in the market, Phrozen’s community and support resources might not be as extensive as established brands. However, the company actively builds its resources and provides online support.
• Resin Compatibility: While compatible with various resins, it’s essential to check for recommended and tested resins to ensure optimal performance and avoid potential issues.

Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S Specs

Verdict

The Sonic Mini 8K S emerges as a compelling option for users seeking high-resolution printing at less than $500. Its exceptional detail, user-friendly interface, and open slicer compatibility make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced creators. However, the smaller build volume, potential need for more calibration, and limited community support require consideration.

Ultimately, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S presents a powerful entry point into the world of high-resolution printing. Its strengths outweigh its limitations for many users, but understanding its specific characteristics will help you determine if it’s the perfect fit for your creative endeavors.

• 6. Saturn 3 Ultra 12K

The above are the best SLA 3D printers under 500 dollars. These printers are relatively quiet, print fast, and produce high-quality prints.

We especially love the Anycubic Photon Mono M5 S. The SLA printer comes pre-assembled from the factory and ready to use. This printer is easy to use, even if you are a beginner as there is no leveling required. The printer is also affordable and there’s a great Anycubic community online where you can get support in case you encounter any problems during the printing.