Elegoo began its journey in 2015 with a mission to bring creativity to life through technology. Founded in Shenzhen by Chris Hong, the company set out to address the gaps in STEM education and open-source electronics. They wanted to make tools accessible for everyone from beginners to seasoned creators. Elegoo’s name, mixing “electronics” and “googol,” represents the boundless possibilities enabled by their innovations. Resin 3D printing has gained significant traction due to its ability to deliver high-quality results. By curing liquid resin with UV light, these printers create smooth, detailed models that are perfect for highly detailed creations. This Elegoo Saturn 4 review gives you an in-depth look at one of Elegoo’s latest advancements. If you’re exploring resin printing for the first time or looking to upgrade, this model promises a lot to unpack.

Design and Build Quality

The Saturn 4 features a sturdy design that balances durability with user convenience. Its 10-inch 12K monochrome LCD delivers detailed, high-resolution prints with smooth finishes. The laser-engraved build plate ensures models stay firmly in place during printing and can be removed easily when the job is done. The resin tank includes dual pour spouts, simplifying resin management and reducing the chance of spills. The flip-up cover provides quick and easy access to the printing area, while the replaceable tank lock enhances longevity and makes maintenance more straightforward. An advanced cooling system is integrated to support stable operation during extended use.

Key Features and Specifications

The Saturn 4 introduces advanced technology to deliver exceptional quality, convenience, and reliability in resin 3D printing. Its 10-inch 12K monochrome LCD screen offers a resolution of 11520×5120, producing highly detailed models with smooth finishes. The COB light source, combined with a Fresnel collimating lens, ensures uniform UV exposure, achieving an impressive field uniformity of 92% and precise surface reproduction. The Saturn 4 also features intelligent self-check and auto-leveling systems, simplifying setup and ensuring consistent performance.

The mechanical sensor improves reliability by detecting residue, resin shortages, and leveling issues, minimizing the risk of print failures. A PFA release film provides excellent non-stick properties, making model removal hassle-free. Additionally, its user-focused design includes a dual-spout resin tank for clean handling and a flip-up cover for easy access during operation.

Comparisons

Saturn 4 vs. Saturn 3

The Saturn 4 and Saturn 3 are made for different priorities in resin 3D printing. The Saturn 4 are made with advanced capabilities and ease of operation. While the Saturn 3 balances functionality with cost-effectiveness.

• Ease of Operation: The Saturn 4 includes features like one-click leveling and a system check. This simplifies setup for users of all experience levels. The Saturn 3, however, requires manual adjustments, which may take more time for some users.
• Resolution and Output Quality: The Saturn 4’s 10-inch 12K monochrome LCD delivers highly detailed models with sharp resolution. The Saturn 3, while still capable, has a lower resolution suited for general applications.
• Printing Process: The Saturn 4 uses a COB light source and a Fresnel collimating lens, ensuring consistent exposure across the printing area. The Saturn 3 employs an earlier design, which may not achieve the same level of uniformity.
• Additional Features: The Saturn 4 includes features such as resin level monitoring and residue detection to support smooth operation. Its resin tank includes dual pour spouts and a PFA release film for easier handling. The Saturn 3 follows a more traditional design without these features.

Saturn 4 vs. Saturn 4 Ultra

The Saturn 4 and Saturn 4 Ultra each bring unique strengths to the table, made for different needs in resin 3D printing.

• Printing Technology: The Saturn 4 Ultra introduces tilt release functionality, which speeds up model separation during printing. The printer reaches speeds of up to 150mm/h. The Saturn 4 operates at a slightly slower pace, with a maximum speed of 70mm/h.
• Monitoring and Process Control: A built-in camera is included in the Saturn 4 Ultra for real-time tracking. It helps detect issues such as model deformation. The Saturn 4 does not feature this addition, requiring users to monitor manually.
• Connectivity and Operation: Both models are simple to operate, but the Saturn 4 Ultra has Wi-Fi capabilities for remote control. The Saturn 4 uses a USB connection.
• Design Improvements: The Saturn 4 Ultra includes a quick-release build plate for greater convenience. Both models feature a flip-up cover for easier access, but the Ultra includes additional refinements to enhance overall usability.
• Affordability: Due to its added features, the Saturn 4 Ultra is available at a higher price, reflecting its advanced design and increased functionality.

Real World Applications

The Elegoo Saturn 4 is designed for users in different fields, with features that elevate it beyond typical 3D resin printers.

• High-Detail Prototyping: With its 12K LCD and sharp XY resolution, the Saturn 4 excels in creating prototypes with intricate features. Designers and engineers working on precision-focused projects, such as product parts or architectural models, benefit from its ability to reproduce fine details with clarity.
• Custom Model Production: The Saturn 4 is an excellent choice for professionals producing detailed models, such as collectible miniatures, jewelry molds, and dental casts. Its large build area supports batch printing, enabling multiple items to be produced in a single session, improving efficiency for small businesses or individual creators.
• Error Reduction and Workflow Management: The Saturn 4’s smart mechanical sensor minimizes errors by detecting resin shortages or residue, which helps prevent damage to the LCD and wasted materials. This is particularly useful in applications requiring consistent quality, like functional prototypes or high-value molds.
• Efficient Small-Scale Production: Its 218.88 x 122.88 x 220 mm³ build volume, combined with advanced features like dual spouts for easier resin handling and laser-engraved build plates, helps with small-scale manufacturing of custom components, props, and unique collectibles.

Conclusion

The Elegoo Saturn 4 stands out as a well-designed and highly capable resin 3D printer. Its 12K monochrome LCD and advanced light source ensure detailed and smooth prints, making it a great choice for intricate projects. Features like one-click leveling, a smart self-check system, and a mechanical sensor make it incredibly convenient and reliable. The large build volume provides plenty of space for creating detailed models or batch printing, while thoughtful design elements like the flip-up cover and dual pour spouts simplify operation and maintenance. The Saturn 4 is also compatible with various resins, opening up possibilities for different projects across creative and functional applications.