Anycubic has built a reputation for creating 3D printers for many different users, from beginners to professionals. Their lineup includes both resin and filament-based printers which are developed to be used in various types of projects. The Photon series leads their resin 3D printers with models like the Photon Mono, Photon Mono X, and Photon Mono M5s. These are all known for delivering exceptional print quality. These printers are popular for projects that require sharp finishes, such as dental models, commercial products and small-scale figurines. 

Beyond printers, Anycubic produces materials that work across different applications. Their resin lineup includes standard, tough, and flexible types. They also make the Wash & Cure stations, which combine cleaning and curing into a single process. It simplifies the workflow for resin users. Their Photon Workshop software is easy to use and simplifies the 3D printing process with tools like automatic supports and slicing. This review looks at how the Anycubic Photon M3 Max fits into their catalog, flaunting a larger build area and features designed to handle more complex projects.

Design and Build Quality

The Photon M3 Max showcases a design made specifically for large-format resin 3D printing while keeping it functional and easily available for makers of all levels. Its two-piece acrylic enclosure is distinctive from competitors that often use metal casings. This enclosure design features a sliding front panel so you can easily access the interior. The sliding mechanism makes it easier to load and unload the sizable build plate and resin vat. This is particularly advantageous in tight spaces where a traditional removable top lid would be impractical. However, the acrylic construction, while lightweight and cost-effective, requires careful handling to avoid damage.

The printer features a 13.6-inch 7K monochrome screen with a resolution of 6,480 x 3,600 pixels, delivering detailed prints with an XY resolution of 46 microns. The build volume of 298 x 164 x 300 mm (HWD) is quite large, which is ample space for large models or batch production. The laser-engraved platform ensures strong adhesion for prints, increasing the success rate of complex builds. Weighing in at 21 kg (46.3 lbs), the M3 Max has a relatively compact build for its capabilities, measuring 596 x 400 x 408 mm (HWD).

Key Features and Specifications

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max is built for users who want to tackle large-scale resin printing projects. Its 13.6-inch 7K monochrome LCD screen delivers sharp, clear prints with a resolution of 6,480 x 3,600 pixels. The spacious build volume of 300 x 298 x 164 mm allows for larger models or batch printing. This is ideal for professional and creative tasks. A laser-engraved platform enhances adhesion, ensuring successful prints even with complex designs.

The smart resin refill system simplifies extended printing sessions by automatically topping up the resin vat and stopping once the optimal level is reached. This feature is especially useful for large models that demand consistent resin levels. The Photon M3 Max’s matrix light source, consisting of 84 LEDs, evenly distributes light, improving both print quality and speed, with a maximum print speed of 60 mm/hr.

The dual linear guides and ball screw Z-axis design add stability to vertical movements, reducing vibrations and ensuring smoother results. The durable two-piece acrylic enclosure provides easy access to the build area while keeping the machine lightweight and practical for workspace integration. With its compatibility across various slicer software and resins, the Photon M3 Max offers flexibility to meet a range of creative needs.

Comparisons

Anycubic Photon M3 Max vs Elegoo Jupiter SE

The Elegoo Jupiter SE and the Anycubic Photon M3 Max are two large-format resin 3D printers aimed at users who want to take on bigger projects. But they each have distinct strengths that set them apart.

• Build Volume: The Elegoo Jupiter SE has a build volume of 277 x 156 x 300 mm. This is slightly smaller than the Photon M3 Max’s 300 x 298 x 164 mm. While the M3 Max does have a larger area for batch printing or large, flat models, the Jupiter is better suited for taller builds.
• Print Technology: Both printers use monochrome LCD technology. The Jupiter comes with a 6K screen, while the M3 Max steps up to a 7K screen. This higher resolution on the M3 Max results in finer output, especially on detailed surfaces.
• Speed and Workflow: The M3 Max advertises a printing speed of up to 60 mm/hr, while the Jupiter SE’s is slightly faster at 70mm/hr. Both printers require careful setup, but the M3 Max’s resin refill system has an advantage in maintaining uninterrupted workflows.
• Material Compatibility: Both printers support a variety of resins, including standard and specialty types. However, the Jupiter SE’s vat design is deeper, which can be more convenient for larger models.

Anycubic Photon M3 Max vs Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max and Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K are designed for large-scale resin printing. Their features are made for slightly different tasks of the user.

• Build Volume: The Sonic Mega 8K S has a massive 330 x 185 x 300 mm build volume. It’s significantly larger than the M3 Max’s 300 x 298 x 164 mm. This makes the Sonic Mega 8K S more suitable for oversized projects like cosplay props or large statues. The M3 Max excels at producing wider or batch-style prints.
• Print Technology: The Sonic Mega 8K S is equipped with an 8K Mono-LCD screen, providing a resolution of 43 microns for highly detailed prints. The Photon M3 Max, with its 7K screen and 46 microns, delivers comparable quality but slightly less resolution.
• Speed and Workflow: The Sonic Mega 8K S’s Z-axis is engineered for stability, which can slow down printing speeds slightly compared to the M3 Max’s advertised 60 mm/hr. The M3 Max also features a laser-engraved platform for better adhesion, giving it an edge during long printing sessions.

Real World Applications

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max has found its way into various fields thanks to its large build volume and high-resolution printing capabilities. This printer is well-suited for projects that require substantial size and quality while remaining user-friendly and efficient.

• Prototyping and Product Development: Designers and engineers use the Photon M3 Max to create large-scale prototypes or multiple versions of smaller designs. Its build area allows parts to be printed in one piece, saving time compared to assembling smaller sections. This is especially helpful for testing and refining ideas before moving to final production.
• Entertainment and Props: Cosplayers and prop makers have used the M3 Max for creating large costume pieces and detailed props. The spacious build plate easily manages large builds. The printer’s resolution captures textures and surface finishes beautifully. The smart resin refill system keeps long prints running smoothly, reducing interruptions.
• Miniatures and Collectibles: The Photon M3 Max is a favorite among creators of miniatures and collectibles. It produces models with sharp features, ideal for tabletop games, custom figurines, and display items. Its ability to handle batch printing also helps creators save time on producing multiple units.
• Custom Manufacturing: Small businesses turn to the Photon M3 Max for custom manufacturing projects. From molds to specialized tools and parts, this printer helps creators take on unique tasks without relying on large-scale industrial equipment.

Conclusion

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max delivers a practical combination of size, resolution, and functionality. With its 13.6-inch 7K monochrome LCD screen, the printer achieves a resolution of 6,480 x 3,600 pixels, producing sharp and well-defined outputs. The big build volume of 300 x 298 x 164 mm can print large models or batch prints easily.

Its auto-resin refill system streamlines lengthy print jobs by automatically maintaining the resin level in the vat. This feature ensures uninterrupted printing and is particularly valuable for large, complex builds. The laser-engraved platform makes the prints adhere to the plate better to minimize the risk of print detachment. While the 84-LED matrix light source provides even light distribution for consistent results across the entire build plate.

The printer’s dual linear guides and ball screw Z-axis reduce vibrations during vertical movement, resulting in smoother layers and fewer defects. Its two-piece acrylic enclosure provides straightforward access to the printing area so it’s convenient to handle the large build plate and resin vat. It’s compatible with Photon Workshop, Lychee, and ChiTuBox slicing software and also supports a variety of resins.