Elegoo Mars 4 Review
Elegoo has carved a niche in the 3D printing and open-source electronics industry since its founding in 2015 by Chris Hong in Shenzhen, China. The name “Elegoo” from “ELE” signifies open-source electronics, and “GOO” refers to the astronomical number googol, symbolizing the endless possibilities enabled by their products. Elegoo’s mission is clear: empower makers, students, and professionals to create with tools that integrate technology and structure. Resin 3D printers, a key product in Elegoo’s lineup, have gained significant attention for their ability to produce high-quality, detailed prints. These 3D printers are better at achieving smoother finishes and sharper details compared to traditional filament-based printers. By using liquid resin cured with UV light, they deliver precision and consistency, ideal for crafting intricate models, prototypes, and artistic creations. In this Elegoo Mars 4 review, we’ll take a look at its advanced features, practical performance, and real world applications.
Design and Build Quality
The Mars 4 showcases a practical design built for precision and convenience. Its compact structure houses a 7-inch 9K monochrome LCD screen. This delivers exceptional detail in every print. The laser-carved build plate ensures solid adhesion during printing while making it easy to remove finished models, saving time and effort. The raised step on the mid-plate prevents resin from flowing into the printer’s internal components. This detail makes this model more durable and minimizes the risk of damage. The printer also includes non-slip hexagon socket leveling screws, making it straightforward to level the build plate accurately. The Z-axis is supported by a linear guide rail, which provides stable and smooth movement during printing. This significantly reduces layer lines, resulting in finer, smoother model surfaces. Elegoo has combined these elements to create a machine that’s durable, efficient, and user-friendly.
Key Features and Specifications
| Key Features | Specifications |
|---|---|
| 7-inch 9K Mono LCD | Build Volume: 153.36 x 77.76 x 175 mm³ |
| COB Light Source | XY Resolution: 18 microns (8520×4320) |
| Efficient Cooling System | Z-Axis Accuracy: 0.02 mm |
| Laser-Carved Build Plate | Layer Thickness: 0.01–0.2 mm |
| Voxeldance Tango Slicer | Printing Speed: 30–70 mm/h |
| Z-Axis Linear Guide Rail | Light Source: COB light source with 36 LEDs |
| Mid-Plate Design | Supported Software: Voxeldance Tango, Chitubox, Autodesk Fusion |
| Non-Slip Leveling Screws | Connection Method: USB offline printing |
| PET scratch-resistant LCD protector | Resin Compatibility: Supports most resins, including standard, water-washable, ABS-like, and plant-based resins |
| Air Purifier Compatibility | Operating Screen: 3.5-inch resistive touch screen |
Mars 4 takes resin 3D printing to the next level with advanced features and improved design upgrades. Its 7-inch 9K monochrome LCD provides a resolution of 8520×4320. This delivers incredibly detailed and sharp prints. The COB light source, with 36 evenly distributed LEDs, ensures consistent UV light coverage, resulting in smooth and precise prints. A laser-carved build plate enhances adhesion, while the efficient heat dissipation system, featuring a large fan and copper tubes, prolongs the printer’s service life. The Mars 4 also uses the Voxeldance Tango Slicer, which includes three dynamic printing modes to balance speed and quality. Additionally, the open-sourced GOO slice file supports third-party slicing software for flexibility.
Comparisons
Mars 4 vs. Mars 3 Pro
The Mars 4 and Mars 3 Pro are two advanced models in Elegoo’s Mars series. Both have impressive features, but the Mars 4 introduces upgrades in resolution, build volume, and printing efficiency.
- Resolution: The Mars 4 has a 7-inch 9K monochrome LCD with an 8520×4320 resolution. This achieves 18-micron XY precision. In contrast, the Mars 3 Pro features a 6.6-inch 4K monochrome LCD with a 4098×2560 resolution, resulting in 35-micron XY precision. This means the Mars 4 can produce finer details and sharper edges.
- Build Volume: The Mars 4 offers a build volume of 153.36 x 77.76 x 175 mm³, while the Mars 3 Pro provides 143 x 89.6 x 175 mm³. This gives the Mars 4 a slightly larger printing area.
- Cooling System: The Mars 4 is equipped with a large cooling fan and heat-conducting copper tubes. This ensures efficient heat dissipation and prolongs the printer’s service life. The Mars 3 Pro also features cooling mechanisms, but the Mars 4’s system offers improved efficiency.
Mars 4 vs. Mars 2 Pro
Comparing the Mars 4 to the Mars 2 Pro highlights just how much resin 3D printing has evolved. With significant advancements in resolution, build volume, and speed, the Mars 4 takes what the Mars 2 Pro does well and pushes it to new heights.
- Resolution: The Mars 4’s 9K LCD provides a significant upgrade over the Mars 2 Pro’s 2K monochrome LCD. This has a resolution of 2560×1620 and an XY precision of 50 microns. This advancement allows the Mars 4 to produce much finer details.
- Build Volume: The Mars 4 offers a larger build volume compared to the Mars 2 Pro’s 129 x 80 x 160 mm³, so you can create bigger models.
- Printing Speed: The Mars 4 achieves printing speeds of up to 70mm/h. Whereas the Mars 2 Pro operates at approximately 30-50mm/h, making the Mars 4 more efficient for larger projects.
- Light Source: While the Mars 2 Pro employs a COB LED light source, the Mars 4’s enhanced COB light source design provides more uniform UV light distribution, resulting in better print accuracy.
Real World Applications
The Mars 4 is designed for creators who want their projects to have exceptional detail and accuracy . Its 9K monochrome LCD and 18-micron XY resolution make it a top choice for tasks requiring intricate designs and smooth finishes. Here are some of its practical applications:
Miniatures and Figurines
The Mars 4’s ability to produce sharp edges and fine details makes it perfect for tabletop gaming miniatures, collectible figurines, and artistic sculptures.
Prototyping
Engineers and designers can use the Mars 4 to create detailed prototypes for product development, ensuring accurate representations of their concepts.
Dentistry and Medical Models
he printer’s precision makes it an excellent tool for producing dental molds and anatomical models for educational or medical purposes.
Custom Parts
Hobbyists and professionals can use the Mars 4 to produce customized parts for projects, from tools to components for larger assemblies.
Conclusion
The Elegoo Mars 4 brings advanced capabilities to resin 3D printing with features that set it apart. Its 9K monochrome LCD delivers exceptional resolution, capturing fine details with 18-micron precision. The COB light source distributes UV light evenly across the build area, ensuring consistent performance. The laser-engraved build plate holds models securely during printing and makes removal straightforward.
The Mars 4 uses an efficient cooling system and a raised mid-plate to protect internal components from resin spills. The inclusion of the Voxeldance Tango Slicer allows users to switch between multiple modes to balance speed and print quality. Compatibility with third-party slicing tools adds flexibility for a variety of workflows. For makers who want to produce detailed, smooth models with dependable results. The Mars 4 combines cutting-edge technology and user-friendly features in a compact package.
