Anycubic Photon Mono Review: A New World of Resin 3D Printing

Anycubic Photon is an entire 3D resin printer series. From its founding in 2015, the company designed seven different models in this category. It all started with Photon Mono, which is still an entry-level gem. 

Read this review to learn if acquiring this Anycubic Photon 3D printer is a smart choice. You’ll discover its features and learn about capabilities and performance quality. Here’s what experts say about this printer!

What Is Anycubic Photon Mono?

 

It’s the first 3D printer this company designed within this series. Anycubic Photon Mono is the basic unit. You shouldn’t confuse it with upgraded versions in the same editions. Those include Mono X 6K, SE, and others.

Get to know Photon Mono basic specifications below:

• Display: LCD with a 6-inch 2K touchscreen
• Maximum printing speed: 50mm per hour
• Material: 405nm UV resin
• Overall printer dimensions: 227 x 222 x 383mm
• Build volume: 130 x 80 x 165mm
• Overall weight: 4.5 kilograms (10 pounds)

Mono offers USB connectivity, and its XY res is 0.051mm. That indicates the resolution is 2560 x 1620, which promises a decent surface quality. 

Unboxing the Anycubic Photon 3D Printer

You get all components to start using the device. That includes the toolset to install all parts, a USB driver, and a helpful user manual. You get the build platform and resin storage vat. However, you need to assemble them manually.

The Photon 3D printer also comes with consumables. It starts with gloves and a facemask to handle the resin. The manufacturer included paper filters and scrapers, which are convenient. If you follow the manual, installation is straightforward. It takes around 30-45 minutes to fill the vat and set the build platform.

Leveling the build plate begins by removing the resin vat. You continue by untightening the screws. Once they are loose, lower the vat to the paper sheet on the LCD. Put pressure to secure levelness, and that’s it.

Top-Quality Display and Power Supply

Anycubic Photon 3D printer comes with a 2K monochrome display. The LCD is of excellent quality. The monochrome concept ensures a longer lifespan than a colored version. You can expect the display to work over 2000 hours.

The manufacturer adheres to the latest standards. It acquired ETL and UL certificates for the power supply. You’ll also find the CE mark on the component. It ensures everything runs smoothly and minimizes the risk of any electricity problems appearing.

User-Friendly Design and Minor Flaws

Mono is a compact printer that won’t take much room. Its build volume is 130 x 80 x 165mm. That’s smaller than in similar units. However, it’s enough for most tasks, especially for amateur requirements.

The printer has a UV-blocking top cover. It blocks 99.95% of the light while remaining transparent. That allows you to monitor the printing process. You can adjust the device to stop the moment you open the cover.

The matrix parallel light source secures improved uniform exposure. It contributes to heat dissipation and boosts efficiency. You’ll appreciate the 50mm/h maximum speed, which the printer pulls off in most situations.

You’ll notice the USB port on the right. While it’s a usual position, it prevents you from holding the device against the wall. The printer has decorative ridging around its base. It adds to the appearance, but the cleaning is tricky.

Specialized Slicer Software for Maximum Compatibility

Anycubic recommends using their 3D slicer named Photon Workshop. It’s possible to work with other software solutions. But the official program secures maximum compatibility. Many templates are available online to give the device a couple of test runs. It ensures you get comfortable with the program. You’ll also better learn how the hardware works.

You get the slicer with the product, including macOS and Windows versions. Photon Workshop offers a user-friendly interface. Beginners will always find that a 3D slicer comes with a learning curve. But the intuitive layout will guide you through the process.

The slicer offers advanced features, such as inserting supports manually. Beginners can choose the automatic option and only pick angle, size, and shape.

Efficient FEP Replacement

Beginners often vary in replacing the FEP film. Mono made the process easy. It places the film between the build plate and the UV screen. If a FEP film needs replacement, it shouldn’t take long to change it. That will minimize the risk of the printer failing.

Mono has a 100% plastic resin vat. While metal is more durable, this is a factor that secures an affordable price. The component does a decent job, and is effective.

What’s the Printing Quality?

 

Anycubic Photon Mono is an entry-level unit. You can get it for under $300. It’s hard to expect a spectacular performance from that printer type. It’s a resin device, so there are fewer supports to add than in the filament systems. You can start printing in minutes.

If you use a simple template with no complex tasks, the results should be decent. The surface quality and resolution are superb. You can also print parts with writing. The letters will be clear, and the printer will show decent consistency.

However, problems start occurring when you use a low resolution. The Anycubic 3D printer has excellent potential for intricate and smaller objects. The unit does a good job when making characters and faces. It can print small figurines of admirable quality.

The device remains close to its maximum speed most of the time. It shows the time left to finish the task. It’s not necessary to be next to the printer during the assignment. But make sure to return in time for post-processing actions.

 

 You can also check our article on the List of 10 Top Softwares for 3D Printing in 2021.

Final Thoughts – Is It a Good Choice?

Anycubic Photon 3D printer is a fine option for beginners and home-based enthusiasts. It comes from a premium brand with a long tradition of designing high-end devices. Photon Mono is an entry-level pick if you need a resin 3D printing unit. It’s great if you want an affordable choice with decent features.

If you prefer advanced performance, it’s smart to look for an alternative. You can visit premium online retailers to learn about different models. Check and compare the features of printers at different ranges. That ensures you’ll love the device’s capabilities and use them with pleasure for years!