Anycubic Kobra 2 Max vs Anycubic Photon Mono 2
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
Choosing between two Anycubic printers? The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max ($399) and Anycubic Photon Mono 2 ($169) both come from one of the most trusted names in 3D printing, with a $230 gap between them. Here's how they compare across every category that matters.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat, both score 7/10 overall. The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max wins in Speed, while the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 takes Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Kobra 2 Max | Anycubic Photon Mono 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $399 | $169 |
| Type | FDM | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 420 x 420 x 500 mm | 143 x 89 x 165 mm |
| Print Speed | 500 mm/s | 80 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.05 mm | 0.02 mm |
| Weight | 20.5 kg | 5.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7/10 | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Kobra 2 Max
+420x420x500mm for $399 is the largest bed you'll find at this budget
+Direct drive at this scale handles flexible filament when needed
+WiFi means you're not walking over with a USB stick for every job
−Open frame on a 420mm heated bed means serious adhesion prep is mandatory
−Full bed heating at this size takes 10+ minutes to reach temp
−Discontinued: Anycubic no longer supports this model
Anycubic Photon Mono 2
+6K resolution still delivers usable miniature detail for most tabletop purposes
+Compact and portable: stores on a shelf when not in use
+Photon Workshop slicer is decent for an entry-level tool
+Anycubic's brand reliability is solid at this tier
−No tilt release means FEP replacements add up quickly
−No WiFi: USB-only workflow
−6K resolution is outdated next to $149 competitors offering 7K and 9K
−Discontinued: no firmware updates coming
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max if you want:
- A great printer for large-prints
- A great printer for cosplay
- A great printer for budget
- 420x420x500mm build
- Auto bed leveling
- Direct drive
Choose the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 if you want:
- A great printer for budget
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- 6K mono LCD
- USB
- Anycubic Photon Workshop slicer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max better than the Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
They tie at 7/10. The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max suits large-prints and cosplay, while the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is aimed at budget and resin.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Kobra 2 Max or Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is more beginner-friendly (6/10 vs 5/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max worth $230 more than the Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 actually scores higher (7/10) despite costing $230 less. The Anycubic Kobra 2 Max only makes sense if you specifically need large-prints.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Kobra 2 Max and Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
Technology: the Anycubic Kobra 2 Max is FDM (filament) and the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is RESIN (resin). FDM prints bigger functional parts; resin delivers finer surface detail.