$200 – $600
Resin
Detail FDM can't touch
If you're here, you probably already know what you want. Miniatures with skin texture you can actually see. Jewelry casting masters. Dental models. Cosplay parts that look injection-molded.
Resin is a different world from FDM. The resolution is 20-micron layers. That's not a marketing number. But there are real trade-offs: post-processing with isopropyl alcohol, UV curing, and liquid resin that you have to handle carefully.
Worth it? Look at what comes off these machines and decide for yourself.
Our Pick
Three options. One recommendation. The math is simple.
Elegoo
Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra
The one most people should get. Seriously.
Not sure which to get? Most people should just buy the Best Value. The budget pick is fine but you'll probably want more in 6 months. The step-up is worth it if this is your primary creative tool.
The Full List
8 printers, ranked by overall score
resinElegoo Mars 5 Ultra
Top PickElegoo
14K resolution that makes tabletop miniatures look factory-printed. The go-to for D&D and Warhammer players who want detail above all else.
resinElegoo Saturn 3 Ultra
Elegoo
12K resolution on a 218x123mm plate with tilt release. The batch printing machine for serious miniature hobbyists.
resinElegoo Mars 4 Ultra
Elegoo
9K resin at $199 with tilt release. The sweet spot in Elegoo's Mars lineup for miniature painters.
resinElegoo Saturn 4 Ultra
Elegoo
Saturn-size build plate with 12K resolution and tilt release. The batch printing machine for serious miniature hobbyists.
resinAnycubic Photon Mono M5s
Anycubic
14K resolution on a Saturn-size build plate, discontinued. Was Anycubic's premium resin answer to Elegoo.
resinAnycubic Photon Mono 4
Anycubic
The cheapest way to get 10K resin detail. Absolute minimum viable setup for testing if resin printing is for you.
resinPhrozen Sonic Mini 8K S
Phrozen
22-micron XY resolution. The sharpest detail available in consumer resin printing.
Not sure this is the right tier?
Answer 6 questions in about a minute. We'll point you at the right printer for your situation.