Anycubic Photon Mono 2 vs Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra are both RESIN 3D printers competing in different tiers, $169 vs $284. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra takes the crown with 8.2/10 vs 7/10. It pulls ahead in Beginner Friendliness, Print Quality, Speed, Reliability. That said, the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 saves you $115.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Photon Mono 2 | Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169 | $284 |
| Type | RESIN | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 143 x 89 x 165 mm | 153 x 89 x 200 mm |
| Print Speed | 80 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.02 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 5.5 kg | 7.5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7/10 | 8.2/10 |
Pros & Cons
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−6K resolution is outdated next to $149 competitors offering 7K and 9K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
Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra
+14K resolution renders chainmail and sword hilts at a level FDM can't get near
+Tilt release means fewer ripped FEP films mid-print
+Built-in air purifier cuts the resin smell noticeably; still needs ventilation but less aggressively
+WiFi monitoring so you don't have to babysit the machine
−Build plate is 153x89mm: anything larger needs to be sliced and assembled
−Resin printing means gloves, IPA, and a wash station are non-negotiable purchases
−Post-processing adds 30-45 minutes after every print: wash, cure, support removal
Who Should Buy Which?
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
Choose the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for detail
- 14K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 better than the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
By the numbers, the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher (8.2/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Anycubic Photon Mono 2 may be the smarter buy if you need budget.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Photon Mono 2 or Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra is more beginner-friendly (7/10 vs 6/10) with easier setup and a gentler learning curve.
Is the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra worth $115 more than the Anycubic Photon Mono 2?
The Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra scores higher overall (8.2/10 vs 7/10). The extra $115 gets you 14k resolution renders chainmail and sword hilts at a level fdm can't get near.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Photon Mono 2 and Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra?
Build volume (143x89x165mm vs 153x89x200mm) and print speed (80 vs 150 mm/s). The Anycubic Photon Mono 2 is best for budget; the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra targets miniatures.