Anycubic Photon Mono M5s vs Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison — 2026
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s and Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra are both RESIN 3D printers competing in different tiers — $339 vs $459. We scored both across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
It's a dead heat — both score 7.8/10 overall. The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s wins in no specific category, while the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra takes none either. Pick based on which strengths matter more to you.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Photon Mono M5s | Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $339 | $459 |
| Type | RESIN | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 218 x 123 x 220 mm | 218 x 123 x 220 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 150 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg | 11 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 7.8/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
+14K resolution for ultra-fine detail
+Anti-warping release reduces failed prints
+Saturn-class build plate
+Great detail on larger models
−Pricier than Elegoo at same size class
−Requires wash & cure post-processing
−Anycubic app less polished
Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra
+Larger build plate than Mars series
+12K resolution
+Print multiple minis at once
+Good for busts and terrain
−More expensive than Mars
−Still requires post-processing
−Heavy resin smell even with purifier
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for detail
- 14K mono LCD
- Anti-warping release
- Dual cooling
Choose the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra if you want:
- A great printer for resin
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for large-prints
- 12K mono LCD
- Tilt release
- Air purifier
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s better than the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra?
They tie at 7.8/10. The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s suits resin and miniatures, while the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra is aimed at resin and miniatures.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Photon Mono M5s or Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra?
Both score 6/10 for beginners. Go with the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s to save $120.
Is the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra worth $120 more than the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s?
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s actually scores higher (7.8/10) despite costing $120 less. The Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra only makes sense if you specifically need resin.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Photon Mono M5s and Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra?
Build volume (218x123x220mm vs 218x123x220mm) and print speed (150 vs 150 mm/s). The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is best for resin; the Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra targets resin.