Anycubic Photon Mono 4K 3D Printer Review

Gather around, my fellow makers and enthusiasts! Today, I bring you the lowdown on the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, the superstar of resin-based 3D printers. This little powerhouse combines affordability and precision to bring your wildest creations to life.

Picture this: you’re itching to bring your intricate designs into the tangible world, with every detail flawlessly replicated. Enter the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, armed with a resolution of 35μm XY and 50μm Z and a monochromatic LCD boasting 4K resolution. Brace yourself for prints so sharp, they’ll make your eyes water (in a good way, of course).

Don’t let the size fool you, my friends. This mighty machine offers a build volume of 132 x 80 x 165 mm, giving you ample space to let your creativity run wild. And with a price range between EUR 170-220, it won’t break the bank either.

But what sets the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K apart from the pack? It’s all about the MSLA technology, my friends. Using a single light source, it works its magic on the resin, resulting in prints with fine details and sleek finishes that will make your jaw drop.

Get ready to dive into the world of 3D printing with ease because the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K supports USB drive printing. Just plug in your file, sit back, and let the magic unfold. And speaking of files, it supports the proprietary PWS file format for slicing, ensuring compatibility and a seamless printing experience.

Key Takeaways:

• The Anycubic Photon Mono 4K offers a resolution of 35μm XY and 50μm Z, guaranteeing sharp and detailed prints.
• With a build volume of 132 x 80 x 165 mm, this printer provides ample space for your creations.
• At a price range of EUR 170-220, the Mono 4K is a budget-friendly option for resin-based 3D printing.
• Thanks to MSLA technology, the Mono 4K delivers high precision and exceptional detail in every print.
• USB drive printing support and compatibility with the PWS file format make the Mono 4K user-friendly and convenient.

FDM vs Resin

In the world of 3D printing, we encounter two main players: FDM printing and resin MSLA printing. Let’s dive into the battle of the filaments and resins to see which one reigns supreme.

1. FDM Printing: Build Volume and Affordability

When it comes to FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing, think big. FDM printers boast impressive build volumes, allowing you to create larger objects without breaking a sweat. Plus, FDM printers are known for their affordability, making them accessible to both hobbyists and professionals alike. With FDM, you have the freedom to choose from a wide range of materials, including PLA, ABS, and more, allowing you to bring your wildest ideas to life.

2. Resin MSLA printing: Precision and Detail

If you want to take your 3D prints to the next level, say hello to resin MSLA (Mask Stereolithography Apparatus) printing. Resin printing provides unparalleled precision and exceptional detail, giving your creations that wow factor. With the ability to achieve finer layers and intricate designs, resin MSLA printing is the go-to choice for those seeking perfection. Just keep in mind that resin printing requires post-processing and can be a bit pricier compared to FDM.

Now, where does the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K fit into this 3D printing saga? Well, it proudly stands among the champions of resin MSLA printing.

Print Settings

As I delved into the world of 3D printing with the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, I discovered that fine-tuning the print settings was crucial to achieving the best results. Let me share with you the optimal settings I’ve found for this incredible resin-based printer.

Layer Height: 0.05mm

Achieving remarkable detail and precision starts with setting the layer height to 0.05mm. This fine layer height allows the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K to produce intricate prints with stunning clarity. Trust me; you won’t be disappointed.

Exposure Time: 2s

To ensure proper resin curing, I recommend an exposure time of 2 seconds. This duration strikes the perfect balance between adequately curing the resin and avoiding overexposure that can lead to print inaccuracies. With this setting, you’ll achieve consistently high-quality prints.

Bottom Layer Count: 6

The bottom layers are critical for print adhesion and stability. I’ve found that using a bottom layer count of 6 enhances the overall print quality. This setting allows the initial layers to firmly adhere to the build platform and create a solid foundation for the rest of the print.

Additionally, consider a bottom exposure time of 40 seconds to ensure proper curing and strong bonding of the bottom layers. This ensures that the base of your prints is robust and securely attached.

The Anycubic Photon Mono 4K offers many other adjustable settings to optimize your prints. You can fine-tune the retract speed, anti-aliasing level, and even work with file formats in the proprietary pwma format. Experimenting with these settings can yield even more remarkable results.

So, take the time to dial in the perfect print settings on your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K. Trust me; it’s worth the effort. With the right layer height, exposure time, and bottom layer count, you’ll unlock the full potential of this outstanding 3D printer and witness your creations come to life in dazzling detail.

Photon Workshop on Linux

While the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is a fantastic resin-based 3D printer, Linux users may face a slight challenge when it comes to using the popular Photon Workshop software for slicing. Unfortunately, as of 2022/11, Photon Workshop does not offer a native Linux version. But fear not, my Linux comrades, there is a workaround that will have you slicing and dicing in no time!

Enter Wine, the Tasteful Compatibility Wrapper

Linux users can utilize Wine, a Windows compatibility wrapper, to run Photon Workshop on their systems. Think of it as a sommelier, seamlessly translating Windows software into a language that Linux understands. All you have to do is open your favorite bottle of Wine, I mean, Wine the software, and run the Photon Workshop executable file within it.

With Wine, you can uncork the full potential of Photon Workshop on your Linux setup, allowing you to enjoy the slicing capabilities offered by this 3D printing software. It’s like achieving the perfect pairing between a resin 3D printer and Linux. Now that’s a match made in pixelated heaven!

Immerse yourself in a world of innovative slicing techniques and fine-tune your prints with ease using Photon Workshop on Linux. While it may not be a native solution, Wine ensures that Linux users can savor the benefits of this powerful 3D printing software.

Chitubox for Linux

If you are a Linux user in search of a reliable and intuitive slicing software for your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, look no further than Chitubox Slicer. This software is specifically designed for Linux and offers seamless compatibility with the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K and other SLA printers.

Chitubox comes packed with a range of useful features that enhance your printing experience. One such feature is the automatic hollowing option that allows you to effortlessly create hollow models, optimizing resin usage. Additionally, Chitubox empowers you to customize printing parameters to suit your specific requirements. With the ability to adjust wall thickness, you can achieve the desired level of strength and detail in your prints.

Chitubox Slicer boasts a user-friendly interface that simplifies the slicing process. Its intuitive functionality enables you to effortlessly prepare and slice models for your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced user, Chitubox provides a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Replacing Firmware

When it comes to the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, the default firmware that comes pre-installed by the manufacturer gets the job done. However, if you’re looking for more control and customization options, there’s an open-source firmware called Turbo Resin that you can consider.

Turbo Resin offers additional features and allows you to fine-tune your printing processes according to your preferences. With this open-source firmware, you’ll have the power to optimize your prints and achieve the desired results.

One of the advantages of Turbo Resin is its compatibility with the proprietary PWS file format used by the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K. This means you can seamlessly transition from the default firmware to Turbo Resin without any compatibility issues.

While upgrading to Turbo Resin firmware can enhance your 3D printing experience, it’s worth noting that it requires some technical knowledge. You’ll need to replace the existing firmware on your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, which can be a bit tricky for beginners.

However, if you’re up for the challenge and eager to unlock the full potential of your printer, Turbo Resin is a fantastic option to explore. Just remember to proceed with caution and approach firmware replacement with the necessary expertise.

Custom MSLA Slicer

When it comes to slicing software for the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, there are plenty of options to choose from. However, for those who crave ultimate control and customization, creating a custom MSLA slicer might just be the answer. With a custom slicer, you’ll have the power to tailor the slicing process to your unique preferences and specific print requirements.

Developing a custom MSLA slicer involves delving into the realms of advanced programming and gaining a deep understanding of MSLA printing principles. As you venture into this territory, you’ll be able to automate various aspects of the slicing process, such as hollowing solid objects or adjusting parameters to match your specific needs.

Imagine having the ability to fine-tune every detail of your prints to perfection. With a custom MSLA slicer, you can unlock the true potential of your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K and unleash your creativity like never before. Say goodbye to limitations imposed by off-the-shelf slicers and embrace the freedom of crafting your own slicing software.

Creating a custom slicer may sound daunting, but the rewards are well worth the effort. You’ll have full control over the slicing process, allowing you to optimize layer heights, exposure times, and other parameters to achieve the desired print quality.

Whether you’re an experienced programmer or an enthusiastic tinkerer looking to take your 3D printing journey to the next level, developing a custom MSLA slicer for your Anycubic Photon Mono 4K is an adventure waiting to be embarked upon.

Verdict

After thoroughly testing and exploring the capabilities of the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K, I can confidently say that it is an impressive resin-based 3D printer. With its affordable price tag and excellent print quality, it strikes a perfect balance between budget-friendly and high-performance.

Whether you’re a beginner venturing into the world of resin printing or an experienced user looking for a reliable option, the Mono 4K won’t disappoint. Its monochromatic LCD with 4K resolution ensures sharp and detailed prints, capturing even the finest intricacies with precision and accuracy.

One of the standout features of the Mono 4K is its compatibility with a range of slicing software. Whether you prefer the ease of use of Photon Workshop, the customization options of Chitubox, or even creating your own custom MSLA slicer, this printer offers flexibility and freedom to suit your preferences.

While there may be some limitations for Linux users in terms of software compatibility, there are workarounds available, such as running Photon Workshop through Wine or utilizing Chitubox, which natively supports Linux. These solutions ensure that all users, regardless of their operating system, can enjoy a seamless printing experience with the Mono 4K.

In conclusion, the Anycubic Photon Mono 4K delivers on its promises, providing reliable and affordable resin printing with exceptional print quality. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a professional, or somewhere in between, this 3D printer is definitely worth considering for your next project.