Anycubic Photon Mono M5s vs Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K
Head-to-head 3D printer comparison, 2026
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s and Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K are both RESIN 3D printers competing in different tiers, $339 vs $199. Both are scored across value, beginner-friendliness, quality, speed, and reliability. Here's the full breakdown.
Our Verdict
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s takes the crown with 7.8/10 vs 7/10. It pulls ahead in Print Quality, Speed. That said, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K saves you $140.
Score Breakdown
Specifications
| Spec | Anycubic Photon Mono M5s | Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $339 | $199 |
| Type | RESIN | RESIN |
| Build Volume | 218 x 123 x 220 mm | 134 x 75 x 130 mm |
| Print Speed | 150 mm/s | 80 mm/s |
| Min Resolution | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Weight | 9.5 kg | 5 kg |
| Overall Score | 7.8/10 | 7/10 |
Pros & Cons
Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
+14K resolution on a Saturn-size plate is the highest resolution in this build volume class
+Anti-warping release mechanism measurably reduces failed prints on larger models
+218x123mm plate handles busts, terrain, and multi-model runs
+Anycubic's community has solid troubleshooting documentation
−Pricier than the Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra at comparable specs
−Discontinued: Anycubic support and firmware updates are ending
−App is functional but rougher than Elegoo's
Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K
+35-micron XY resolution still produces detailed minis despite the lower resolution count
+Phrozen's build quality and reliability track record is among the best in the category
+Compact footprint fits into tight shelf spaces
−4K resolution in a world of 8K and 12K is a real gap: fine details are softer
−134x75mm build plate is one of the smallest on the list
−No WiFi: USB-only file management
−80mm/hr speed is the same as entry-level machines that cost half as much
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 Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K if you want:
- A great printer for miniatures
- A great printer for detail
- A great printer for resin
- 5.5" 4K mono LCD
- 35-micron XY resolution
- ParaLED 2.0
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s better than the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K?
By the numbers, the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s scores higher (7.8/10). But "better" depends on your use case, the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K may be the smarter buy if you need miniatures.
Which is better for beginners, Anycubic Photon Mono M5s or Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K?
Both score 6/10 for beginners. Go with the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K to save $140.
Is the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s worth $140 more than the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K?
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s scores higher overall (7.8/10 vs 7/10). The extra $140 gets you 14k resolution on a saturn-size plate is the highest resolution in this build volume class.
What's the main difference between Anycubic Photon Mono M5s and Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K?
Build volume (218x123x220mm vs 134x75x130mm) and print speed (150 vs 80 mm/s). The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is best for resin; the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K targets miniatures.