Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 3d Printer Resins Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best for Daily Use
- 3. Best for Beginners
- 4. Best Lightweight
- 5. Best Budget
- 6. Most Versatile
- 7. Best Compact
- 8. Runner-Up
- 3d Printer Resins Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose 3d Printer Resins
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best cheap 3d printer resin can be tough. The top pick is SUNLU Standard 3D Printer Resin Plus. It has strong fluidity and works well with different printer types. For a value option, consider the ELEGOO Standard 3D Printer Resin. It offers solid performance, but you may sacrifice some high-precision features.
Most buyers face a choice between print speed and detail quality. SUNLU offers easy use and quick curing times while ELEGOO focuses on strength and heat resistance. This guide will help you understand what you need and highlight the best options available.
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The Top 8
Top 8 3d Printer Resins Reviewed in Detail
Here we review several 3D printer resins. Each one brings unique features and strengths.
1. Top Pick
SUNLU Standard 3D Printer Resin Plus, Fast-Curing Photopolymer Resin for LCD/DLP/SLA Printers, 395-405nm UV, Low Shrinkage and High Precision, Grey 1KG
- ①【Easy to Use】- SUNLU standard resin has strong fluidity and is compatible with different printers and printing speeds. The printed products are easy to form and are suitable for novices.
- ②【Good Stability】- Standard resin has good tolerance to weak acids, greases, etc., and the printed works are not easy to deform, which is suitable for the manufacturing of most printing needs.
- ③【Easy to Post-process】- The surface of standard resin printed works is hard and smooth, and it is easy to color after printing. It is one of the best choices for hand-made printing.
- ④【Low Shrinkage】- During the curing process, the standard resin has a low shrinkage rate, providing accurate size and shape of the printed parts.
- ⑤【High Cost-Effectiveness】- Standard resin provides good performance and durability at a relatively low cost, making it an affordable choice for those with a limited budget.
- ⑥【Easy to Clean】- SUNLU standard resin offers effortless cleaning with isopropyl alcohol or ethanol, resulting in a smooth surface finish.
- ⑦【Minimal Odor】- The odor during the 3D printing is light, SUNLU 3D printer resin maintains a balance between functionality and minimizing any potential discomfort.
- ⑧【High Compatibility】- SUNLU Standard resin printing wavelength is 365-405nm, which is compatible with 99% of printers on the market, including LCD, DLP and SLA.
- ⑨【Multiple Colors】- SUNLU 3D printer resins offer a wide range of color options, including solid colors, clear colors, and macaron colors.
- ⑩【Leak-proof Bottle Design】SUNLU resin bottle has a leak-proof design patent, and the packaging process is strict, which reduces the damage to the bottle during transportation and ensures that the resin is delivered to the customer in good condition.
SUNLU Standard 3D Printer Resin Plus is a top choice for beginners and experienced users alike. Its strong fluidity and compatibility with various printer types make it easy to use. This resin cures quickly and shows low shrinkage, ensuring accurate prints. Compared to other options, like ELEGOO’s offerings, this one focuses on user-friendliness and speed.
While SUNLU provides a great balance of performance, it may not have the same heat resistance as the ELEGOO ABS-Like resins. This could be a downside for users needing models to endure higher temperatures. Overall, its reliability and ease of use make it a strong contender in the market.
However, if you need parts for higher-temperature applications, this resin may not be suitable. It fits well for general printing needs but may fall short for specialized projects.
Pros
- Strong fluidity for easy printing.
- Compatible with various printer types.
- Low shrinkage rate for accurate sizing.
Cons
- Not ideal for high-heat applications.
- May lack some advanced features.
Best for: Beginners or casual users. Not ideal for: High-temperature applications.
This resin is a reliable choice for those starting with 3D printing.
2. Best for Daily Use
ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0+ 3D Printer Resin Grey 2000g
- Higher Heat-Resistance: The 3D printed models with ABS-Like 3.0 Plus maintains its physical shape and mechanical properties at higher temperatures (up to 55 celsius grad), which effectively reduces the risk of material failure due to high temperatures.
- High Strength and Impact Resistance: Printed models are tough, bending without breaking easily and can withstand certain levels of tension and stress, featuring high hardness and toughness. Resin products can be tapped and drilled without cracking.
- High Precision and Low Shrinkage: Ensures high model forming accuracy with smooth surfaces and clear printing details and features low shrinkage rates.
- Good Fluidity: ELEGOO ABS-Like Resin 3.0 Plus Resin exhibits excellent fluidity, allowing it to flow back quickly to fill and cure the surface of printed models, which enhances the success rate of model printing by reducing the release force after resin curing.
- Fast Curing: Balances model performance and detail while improving printing speed. Shortens curing time, enhancing the efficiency of LCD 3D printers.
ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0+ 3D Printer Resin is designed for high heat resistance, making it a great choice for functional models. It can withstand temperatures up to 55 degrees Celsius, ensuring your printed items keep their shape under stress. Compared to SUNLU, this resin offers additional toughness and impact resistance, making it suitable for more demanding projects.
While it excels in strength, it may take slightly longer to cure than some standard resins. This could slow down your production speed, especially for larger projects. However, its durability and heat resistance are significant advantages for users needing reliable models.
If you prioritize print speed over heat resistance, you may find the SUNLU resin better. However, for those needing strong and heat-resistant parts, ELEGOO’s option is hard to beat.
Pros
- High heat resistance up to 55 degrees Celsius.
- Tough and impact-resistant for functional models.
- Large volume of 2000g for extensive projects.
Cons
- Curing times may be slower than other resins.
- Could be overkill for simple prints.
Best for: Users needing heat-resistant models. Not ideal for: Simple or quick projects.
This resin is excellent for those making durable and heat-resistant prints.
3. Best for Beginners
ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0 3D Printer Resin Grey 2000g
- 【High Strength and Toughness】ELEGOO ABS-like resin 3.0 is engineered for high strength, impact resistance, and toughness. The printed models can withstand drilling holes and certain impacts, maintaining their structural integrity and resisting deformation, ideal for functional prototypes, mechanical parts, and industrial parts.
- 【High Precision & Low Shrinkage】 With lower volume shrinkage, our ABS-like resin 3.0 ensures high precision in your 3D prints, resulting in intricate model details and smooth surface finishes with minimal distortion and accurate dimensional stability.
- 【Good Fluidity for Rapid Prototyping】 Our ABS-like resin 3.0 is formulated with low viscosity to provide good fluidity for faster curing. Its viscosity is 25-47% lower than ABS-like 1.0 and ABS-like 2.0, allowing the resin to quickly flow back into the print area and peel easily from the release film. This improves print success and reduces overall print time.
- 【Strong Stability】 Our ABS-like resin 3.0 is engineered to maintain good stability, ensuring that the resin does not delaminate or separate over time. This eliminates the need for manual stirring and guarantees consistent color across the model surface.
- 【Wide Compatibility】 ELEGOO ABS-like resin 3.0 is compatible with a wide range of LCD/DLP 3D printers available on the market using 405nm UV light-curing technology, and works best with ELEGOO light-curing 3D printers.
ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0 3D Printer Resin focuses on high strength and toughness. This resin is perfect for functional prototypes and mechanical parts. Its resistance to deformation and impact makes it ideal for projects where durability is key. When compared to other options, it stands out for its ability to handle tough tasks.
However, it does not offer the same heat resistance as the ABS-Like 3.0+. This means it may not be suitable for models exposed to high temperatures. While it excels in strength, users may find it lacking in versatility compared to other resins.
If your projects involve strength and toughness, this resin is a great pick. But for high-temperature uses, another option may serve you better.
Pros
- High strength and toughness for durability.
- Resistant to impacts and deformation.
- Great for prototypes and functional parts.
Cons
- Lacks high heat resistance.
- May not be suitable for all applications.
Best for: Functional prototypes and mechanical parts. Not ideal for: High-temperature applications.
This resin is a solid choice for strong and reliable prints.
4. Best Lightweight
ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin Space Grey 1000g
- 【Low Shrinkage and High Precision】ELEGOO photopolymer resin is specially designed for reducing volume shrinkage during the Photocuring process, which ensures the high precision of the print model with smooth finish.
- 【Low Volume Shrinkage】Low shrinkage and good stability reduce volume shrinkage during the curing process. Therefore, after cleaning and post-curing, the molded prints will not be noticeably deformed or cracked over a long period of time.
- 【Low Viscosity & Good Fluidity】With excellent fluidity, the resin can quickly reflow to the area between model and release film, which improves the printing success rate, and reduces printing time.
- 【Safe and Low Odor】ELEGOO standard photopolymer resin is specially formulated with less odor and a very pure and bright color. There is less pungent smell during printing, thus maintaining a freshening printing environment.
- 【Bright and Stunning Colors】With high quality pigments and photo-initiators inside ELEGOO UV-Curing resin, the models printed with resin have a very pure and stunning color effect just like an artwork.
ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin is designed for precision and low shrinkage. This resin ensures high-quality prints with smooth finishes. When compared to the ELEGOO ABS-like resins, it focuses more on detail rather than strength. This makes it perfect for projects needing fine details.
Its low volume shrinkage is a significant advantage, preventing issues with accuracy. However, it may not be as tough as the ABS-like options. This could make it less suitable for functional parts that require durability.
If you need intricate designs or models, this resin is an excellent choice. But for users needing more rugged prints, consider the other ELEGOO options.
Pros
- Low shrinkage for high precision.
- Smooth finish for detailed models.
- Fast curing times for efficient printing.
Cons
- Less impact resistance compared to ABS-like resins.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Best for: Detailed prints and designs. Not ideal for: Functional or rugged parts.
This resin is perfect for capturing fine details in your prints.
5. Best Budget
SUNLU 3D Printer Resin, 1kg Fast Curing Standard 3D Resin for LCD DLP SLA Printers, 395-405nm UV Light Curing Photopolymer Resin, Low Shrinkage, High…
- ①【Easy to Use】- SUNLU standard resin has strong fluidity and is compatible with different printers and printing speeds. The printed products are easy to form and are suitable for novices.
- ②【Low Shrinkage】- During the curing process, the standard resin has a low shrinkage rate, providing accurate size and shape of the printed parts.
- ③【Good Stability】- Standard resin has good tolerance to weak acids, greases, etc., and the printed works are not easy to deform, which is suitable for the manufacturing of most printing needs.
- ④【Easy to Post-process】- The surface of standard resin printed works is hard and smooth, and it is easy to color after printing. It is one of the best choices for hand-made printing.
- ⑤【High Cost-Effectiveness】- Standard resin provides good performance and durability at a relatively low cost, making it an affordable choice for those with a limited budget.
- ⑥【Easy to Clean】- SUNLU standard resin offers effortless cleaning with isopropyl alcohol or ethanol, resulting in a smooth surface finish.
- ⑦【Minimal Odor】- The odor during the 3D printing is light, SUNLU 3D printer resin maintains a balance between functionality and minimizing any potential discomfort.
- ⑧【High Compatibility】- SUNLU Standard resin printing wavelength is 365-405nm, which is compatible with 99% of printers on the market, including LCD, DLP and SLA.
- ⑨【Multiple Colors】- SUNLU 3D printer resins offer a wide range of color options, including solid colors, clear colors, and macaron colors.
- ⑩【Leak-proof Bottle Design】SUNLU resin bottle has a leak-proof design patent, and the packaging process is strict, which reduces the damage to the bottle during transportation and ensures that the resin is delivered to the customer in good condition.
SUNLU 3D Printer Resin is known for its ease of use and strong fluidity. This makes it a great choice for beginners. Its low shrinkage rate ensures prints maintain their intended size. Compared to other options, it focuses on user-friendliness and quick curing, making it suitable for casual users.
However, it may not offer the same level of toughness as the ELEGOO resins. This could be a limitation for those needing durable prints. Overall, its simplicity and reliable performance make it appealing for newcomers to 3D printing.
If you prioritize ease and speed, this resin is a great fit. But for more demanding projects, you may want a sturdier option.
Pros
- Strong fluidity for easy mixing and use.
- Low shrinkage rate for accurate prints.
- Quick curing time for faster results.
Cons
- May lack toughness for heavy-duty models.
- Not the best for high-temperature applications.
Best for: Beginners and casual users. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty or high-heat models.
This resin is a great entry-level option for new users.
6. Most Versatile
ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin Space Grey 2000g
- 【Low Shrinkage and High Precision】ELEGOO photopolymer resin is specially designed for reducing volume shrinkage during the Photocuring process, which ensures the high precision of the print model with smooth finish.
- 【Fast Curing and Great Stability】ELEGOO 405nm Rapid Resin was designed to significantly reduce printing time with its excellent fluidity. Meanwhile its great stability and proper hardness ensure a unworried printing experience and successful printing.
- 【Bright and Stunning Colors】With high quality pigments and photo-initiators inside ELEGOO UV-Curing resin, the models printed with resin have a very pure and stunning color effect just like an artwork.
- 【Wide Applications】Given the outstanding performances, ELEGOO standard resin is suitable for most DLP/LCD 3D printers. Works best with the LCD 3D Printers.
- 【Safe and Secure Packaging】Leak-proof bottle fully wrapped with a plastic bubble bag and exquisite designed package box make sure the resin stays in place where they belong
ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin offers impressive print quality with low shrinkage. Designed for precision, it ensures smooth finishes and accurate details. Compared to other resins, it emphasizes print quality and speed, making it well-suited for detailed projects.
However, it may not be as strong as some of the ABS-like resins. Users needing heat resistance or durability should consider other options. This resin shines in applications focused on detail and aesthetics.
If your projects require precision, this is an excellent choice. For those needing more sturdy functionality, other resins might be more suitable.
Pros
- High precision with low volume shrinkage.
- Great for detailed prints.
- Fast curing times for efficient workflows.
Cons
- Less strength compared to ABS-like resins.
- Not suitable for high-impact applications.
Best for: Detailed and aesthetic prints. Not ideal for: Functional or durable parts.
This resin excels in print quality and detail for artistic projects.
7. Best Compact
ELEGOO Standard 3D Printer Resin Grey 1000g
- 【Low Shrinkage and High Precision】ELEGOO photopolymer resin is specially designed for reducing volume shrinkage during the Photocuring process, which ensures the high precision of the print model with smooth finish.
- 【Fast Curing and Great Stability】ELEGOO 405nm Rapid Resin was designed to significantly reduce printing time with its excellent fluidity. Meanwhile its great stability and proper hardness ensure a unworried printing experience and successful printing.
- 【Bright and Stunning Colors】With high quality pigments and photo-initiators inside ELEGOO UV-Curing resin, the models printed with resin have a very pure and stunning color effect just like an artwork.
- 【Wide Applications】Given the outstanding performances, ELEGOO standard resin is suitable for most DLP/LCD 3D printers. Works best with the LCD 3D Printers.
- 【Safe and Secure Packaging】Leak-proof bottle fully wrapped with a plastic bubble bag and exquisite designed package box make sure the resin stays in place where they belong
ELEGOO Standard 3D Printer Resin is designed with low shrinkage and stability. It delivers smooth finishes, making it a strong option for detailed prints. Compared to other standard resins, it provides reliability for general-purpose use without the advanced features of ABS-like resins.
While it’s a solid choice for many users, it lacks heat resistance and impact durability. This makes it less ideal for functional parts that may face stress. Still, it serves well for those focused on print quality and ease of use.
If you want reliable and straightforward printing, this resin is a great pick. However, for demanding applications, you may want to explore other options.
Pros
- Low shrinkage for accurate prints.
- Stable and easy to use.
- Smooth finish for aesthetic projects.
Cons
- Lacks heat resistance.
- Not suitable for high-impact applications.
Best for: General-purpose printing. Not ideal for: High-temperature or rugged parts.
This resin is a dependable option for everyday projects.
8. Runner-Up
ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin, 405nm SLA UV-Curing Resin with High Precision and Quick Curing & Excellent Fluidity for LCD 3D Printing (Grey, 1kg)
- Low Shrinkage & High Precision: ANYCUBIC UV resin prints the models with low shrinkage during the photocuring process, which ensures the high precision and smooth surface.
- Quick Curing & Strong Stability: ANYCUBIC photopolymer resin was specially developed to reduce the forming time with its extraordinary fluidity, and 3d model shows good stability in moist and corrosive environment after cured.
- Rigidity & Toughness: ANYCUBIC LCD resin has a good combination of hardness and toughness, which brings easy removal of the model and delivers accurate printing details.
- Multiple Colors & Universal Compatibility: ANYCUBIC standard resins are compatible with all DLP/LCD 3D printers, works best with ANYCUBIC LCD 3D printers, multiple colors for your choice. Take a full shake before use in order to have a fully mix the functional components and fully mix the color paste in the resin. Otherwise, uneven coloring of the print may occur.
- Safe & Secure Package: ANYCUBIC UV-Curing resin bottle is packed well in plastics bubble wrap, the cap is completely intact, surrounded by a tight-fitting air bag. No worries for leakage.
ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin is known for its excellent fluidity and quick curing. This resin is compatible with LCD 3D printers and delivers high precision. While it does not have the same brand recognition, it compares favorably with the leading options here.
Its quick curing times allow for faster project completion, which can be an advantage for users with busy schedules. However, it may not have the same level of strength or heat resistance as the ELEGOO ABS-like options. This makes it less suitable for functional applications.
If speed and ease are your priorities, this resin may be a good fit. For users needing durability, another resin may be more appropriate.
Pros
- Quick curing times for faster workflows.
- High precision for detailed prints.
- Compatible with a range of LCD printers.
Cons
- May lack strength for heavy-duty tasks.
- Not ideal for high-heat applications.
Best for: Quick projects and detailed prints. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty or heat-sensitive parts.
This resin is suitable for users who need quick and detailed printing.
3d Printer Resins Compared Side by Side
Our comparison table shows each resin’s key specs. The columns highlight the size, type, and features. If you’re searching for the best cheap 3d printer resin, this table can guide you in making a choice.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SUNLU Standard 3D Printer Resin Plus | Top Pick | SUNLU | $11.99 | Check |
| 2 | ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0+ 3D Printer Resin Grey 2000g | Best for Daily Use | ELEGOO | $29.99 | Check |
| 3 | ELEGOO ABS-Like 3.0 3D Printer Resin Grey 2000g | Best for Beginners | ELEGOO | $29.99 | Check |
| 4 | ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin Space Grey… | Best Lightweight | ELEGOO | $20.99 | Check |
| 5 | SUNLU 3D Printer Resin | Best Budget | SUNLU | $12.99 | Check |
| 6 | ELEGOO Upgraded 8K Standard 3D Printer Resin Space Grey… | Most Versatile | ELEGOO | $30.99 | Check |
| 7 | ELEGOO Standard 3D Printer Resin Grey 1000g | Best Compact | ELEGOO | $16.99 | Check |
| 8 | ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin | Runner-Up | ANYCUBIC | $14.99 | Check |
| 9 | ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin | — | ANYCUBIC | $25.63 | Check |
| 10 | ANYCUBIC 3D Printer Resin Bundle | — | ANYCUBIC | $59.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from user reviews, manufacturer websites, and expert articles. This ensured we had accurate details about each resin. Our aim was to provide you with trustworthy insights for your selection.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 20 different 3D printer resins available on the market. We filtered them based on user ratings, features, and suitability for beginners. Only the top-performing options made it to our final list.
What we ruled out and why
Products with low ratings or frequent complaints were removed from our list. Also, specialty resins that are not beginner-friendly were excluded. We focused only on those that suit general buyers.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand. We did not take any lab measurements or assign scores. Our findings are based solely on research and data from reliable sources.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed and updated regularly. We check for new products and trends every few months. This ensures that you always have the latest information on the best cheap 3d printer resin.
How to Choose 3d Printer Resins
Consider Your Printer Type
Different 3D printers use specific resin types. Make sure the resin you select works with your printer’s model. Look for specifications that mention compatibility with LCD, DLP, or SLA printers.
Check for Shrinkage Rates
Shrinkage rate is important for achieving precise prints. Look for resins labeled with low shrinkage rates, ideally below 2%. This will help maintain the size and shape of your printed models.
Temperature Resistance Matters
If your printed models will be used in warm environments, consider heat resistance. Choose resin that can withstand temperatures above 50 degrees Celsius. This will ensure your models stay intact and do not warp.
Assess Curing Time
Curing time affects how quickly you can complete prints. Look for resins that cure in under 10 seconds for faster projects. A quicker curing time can greatly improve your workflow.
Think About Strength and Toughness
For functional parts, choose resin known for high strength and impact resistance. Look for claims of toughness and durability to ensure they can withstand drilling and other impacts.
What to look for
Print Quality
Print quality is essential in 3D printing. Look for resins that deliver fine details and smooth finishes. High-resolution prints require resins that cure cleanly without warping.
Safety and Environment
Many resins can be harmful. Always check for safety certification and ensure you work in a well-ventilated area. Look for resins that state they are low in VOCs or harmful chemicals.
Color Options
Color can impact your final design. Many resins come in various colors. Choose based on your project needs. Grey, clear, and black are common choices for versatile applications.
Ease of Use
Beginner-friendly resins are usually easier to work with. Look for products that mention easy mixing and low odor. Ensure you read the instructions for proper usage.
Brand Reputation
Choose resins from reputable brands. Research customer reviews and feedback. Established brands often have better customer support and more reliable products.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cheap 3d printer resin?
The best cheap 3d printer resin is SUNLU Standard 3D Printer Resin Plus. This resin offers high precision and is easy to use, making it great for beginners.
How do I choose the right resin?
Choosing the right resin involves looking at printer compatibility, shrinkage rates, and curing times. Make sure it meets your specific printing needs.
What are the common problems with resins?
Common problems include warping, poor adhesion, and long curing times. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize issues.
Can I use any resin with my printer?
Not all resins are compatible with every printer. Check the printer specifications and resin type to ensure they match.
What is the difference between standard and ABS-like resin?
Standard resins are general-use, while ABS-like resins are stronger and more heat-resistant. Choose based on your project requirements.
Shopping around? We have 6 more 3d printer resin guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- ENERGY STAR computer specs ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- NIST cybersecurity guidance NIST
About the author
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