Which 3d printer should I get?

[delamaize]

Hey Guys, Really thinking about getting a 3D printer, and getting back into 3D imaging. I have been leaning towards one of the Resin printers, especially after seeing SkipGears Cabooses he has printed lately.

So, Here is the big question, Which printers are good entry level, inexpensive printers? I have looked at a ton of printers, both really cheap, and really expensive, but I am not really sure what I am looking for, and which ones are "Good" and which are Junk.

So, Railwire gurus of 3D printing, What say you?

[ednadolski]

Apologies that i cannot make a recommendation, but I will be paying close attention to the responses.

Ed

[GaryHinshaw]

My Photon Mono has been completely trouble free and was only $229.  Highly recommended.  The Photon Mono X is the same technology with a larger print volume, but substantially more expensive.

[IronPenguin]

That's a tough question.
Virtually all resin printers use the same or similar motherboard, LCD screens, and software.  So why is there a price difference? The quality and material of the unit itself (metal or plastic) and type of rail system (single or double)  used to control the build plate.
The higher priced printers use metal for the unit, cheaper ones  use plastic. Does that make a difference in print quality? I'm not sure but the metal ones are like a tank compared to a jeep.
There's little doubt that the more expensive double rail systems are superior to single rail. That's why many users who bought earlier single rail systems converted them to doubles.
To me, tho, an extremely important part of the equation is the quality of support from the company . You will need support. There are components that must be routinely replaced and you will have to it yourself. Availability of replacements parts, speed of delivery, and email responses to problems is critical.
As far as I can tell, quality control on printers is pretty similar across companies. Unfortunately right now virtually all of them are quite spotty. And that means that support is even more important.
If you're dealing with a company based in China, you will deal with language problems and time differences. A US based company is a lot easier to deal with and can be more responsive.
Bottom line, you do get what you pay for. Higher prices do generally translate into better performance.
If you must know, I have 2 Epax X1's and they are workhorses. Epax is US based and their support is excellent.

[pjm20]

I'd be interested to see if there is any commentary on Prusa's resin printer vs Anycubic's products.

[Chris333]

The Epax X1 says it now comes with a ChiTu board and uses .ctb files. That is the same as my new Sonic Mini.

I've only had 2 printers so could only tell you which was best between them two.

Didn't even know Prusa made resin printers.

[PJPickard]

I will be following this too...what I'd like to know is what printer has THE best resolution. Forget cost , but what one is best. Formlabs? Asiga?

[timwatson]

I would agree with @GaryHinshaw the bang for the buck right now is in the Photon Mono. Build quality for Anycubic machines have gone way up from the Original Photon days. I think it would be a great first machine.


The Prusa machines are all good and groundbreaking but the tilt bed introduces some extra variables to try to troubleshoot. I have seen a few complaints on their forums that seems to be the "issues everyone has" type of comments.


Good luck in your decision and if you've not checked it out yet, go to https://all3dp.com/ they are an amazing place for really well informed reviews.

[C855B]

I concur on the Photon Mono. Most capabilities and least hassle per dollar.

[AlwaysSolutions]

I vote Photon Mono as well.  I have two original Photons, an Epax X10 and a Photon Mono SE.  The Mono SE by far has been the best resin printer I've owned as far as quality and performance goes.  Anycubic has a huge support base which is also something to consider when getting a 3D printer.

Mike

[Chris333]

I will be following this too...what I'd like to know is what printer has THE best resolution. Forget cost , but what one is best. Formlabs? Asiga?

They are are really close to the same for resolution.

[Lemosteam]

Not that I have tried anything else, but so far, I am very pleased with the Mono X.  Being a designer by trade, I am totally convinced of its robustness, and quality. the thing is a rock, and quite polished, IMHO.

I decided on it for three reasons, print volume, 4K Monochrome screen, and dual rail platform lift.

[ednadolski]

My Photon Mono has been completely trouble free and was only $229.  Highly recommended.

<guilty look on>

Ooops!   I was looking at this on Amazon and accidentally hit the "submit order" button!   

<guilty look off>

Ed

[Wolf N Works]

I like my Mono X

[narrowminded]

If you're getting started, I'd vote for the Mono.  Reason?  Quality, price, relatively current technology, and it will do most of what you might want in N scale and even HO.  It's hard to beat low $200 for this level of machine especially just getting started.