The Anycubic Photon M3 Max is one of the latest resin 3D printers to hit the market, offering impressive specs and performance at an affordable price point. With a build volume of 298 x 164 x 400mm, the M3 Max can print larger models than most competitors in its class. Its mono LCD screen provides faster print speeds, while the removable 8.9 inch 4K screen allows for crisp detail.

But how does the Anycubic Photon M3 Max really stack up for resin printing? Here’s an in-depth look at the key features and performance of this printer.

Overview of the Anycubic Photon M3 Max

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max is an upgraded version of the popular Anycubic Photon M3. It was released in early 2022 as a high-performance resin 3D printer aimed at prosumers, small businesses, and hobbyists.

Some of the key specs and features of the M3 Max include:

• Build volume of 298 x 164 x 400mm, one of the largest in its class
• 8.9” monochrome 4K LCD screen with anti-aliasing technology
• Dual linear rails and springs for smooth, precise z-axis movement
• Removable LCD screen to make hollow prints easier
• 50W UV LED light source for faster curing times
• WiFi and Ethernet connectivity
• Print speed up to 150mm/hour for the fastest model printing
• Dual air filters to reduce fumes
• Supported resin include 405nm standard, plant-based, and ABS-like
• Compatible with ANYCUBIC resin and other third party resins
• Works with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices

With this combination of features, the M3 Max is designed to deliver outstanding print quality for both hobbyists and professionals. But how does it actually perform?

Build Quality and Hardware

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Anycubic Photon M3 Max is that it has an impressive, durable build. The metal frame and industrial design give it a sturdy, stable base for printing.

The metal platform has a patterned print surface to allow resin to grip better. It also uses strong dual linear rails combined with springs to provide precise, smooth movement on the z-axis. This improves overall print quality and consistency.

Inside, the M3 Max has a advanced mono LCD screen. This screens offers 2560 x 1620 resolution in a 4K format. Using a monochrome screen enables faster print speeds compared to color screens. The anti-aliasing technology further improves resolution and detail.

This printer uses a 50 watt UV LED light source. This powerful light cures resin quickly, also contributing to the fast print times. Anycubic rates the printer for speeds up to 150mm/hour for quick draft prints. The UV light has a filter glass for uniform curing.

For connectivity, the M3 Max has both WiFi and Ethernet available. This makes it easy to set up and control remotely. It works with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices.

Overall, the hardware components and build quality result in a 3D printer that’s made to last. It has an industrial design but is compact enough for most desktops.

Print Quality

When evaluating a resin 3D printer, print quality is generally the top consideration. With its mono LCD screen and 50W UV light, the Anycubic Photon M3 Max delivers exceptional fine detail and smooth surfaces.

It can print at resolutions up to 2560 x 1620 pixels. This 4K format allows for extremely crisp details in models. The anti-aliasing technology further enhances quality by smoothing edges and contours.

Models printed on the M3 Max have very minimal layer lines. Surfaces are smooth and uniform. Fine details like embossed text and logos come out clearly legible.

The printer can also handle smaller layer heights down to 0.01mm. At this resolution, models have an almost production-quality appearance. The surface quality rivals that of printers costing much more.

Accuracy is also excellent with the dual z-axis guides. Models have precise dimensions with no warping or shrinking. Alignment is consistent across the entire build area.

Overall, print quality exceeds what you would expect for the price. The M3 Max can handle very fine details while also delivering smooth, professional surface finishes.

Print Speed

While resolution is critical, print speed is also an important consideration for production use. The M3 Max can print at fairly fast speeds thanks to its mono LCD and 50 watt UV LED.

In its fastest draft mode, it can print at speeds up to 150mm/hour. This allows you to print prototypes quickly.

For higher detailed prints, it can run at speeds between 30-80mm/hour. A typical 5-6 inch model may take around 4-8 hours at these speeds. Larger prints may take 10-24 hours.

The removable LCD screen helps for Hollow prints as you can insert an LED light inside the model while printing. This cures interior walls as it prints.

Overall, the M3 Max provides a good balance of speed and quality. While not as fast as some industrial printers, it can produce detailed prints faster than many hobbyist machines. The speeds are more than acceptable for professional use.

Supported Resins and Materials

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max works with a range of both standard and specialty resins:

• Standard 405nm resin – The printer is designed for standard resins that cure under 405nm light. This includes most common resins from Anycubic and other brands.
• Plant-based resin – For more eco-friendly printing, you can use plant-based bio resins. Models have similar quality.
• ABS-like resin – Specialized resin lets you print models with properties close to ABS plastic. This allows more durable functional prints.
• Ceramic resin – With ceramic powder resin, you can print objects that can be fired in a kiln to create real ceramic.
• Castable resins – Jewelry makers can print models and cast them using vulcanized rubber molds and gold or silver.

This range of resin compatibility gives you many possibilities for different applications. From detailed miniatures to functional industrial parts, you can find a resin to meet your needs.

The open resin vat design also allows you to easily use third-party resins. Just confirm the curing wavelength matches the 405nm light.

Printer Size and Footprint

With its large build volume, the Anycubic Photon M3 Max has a bigger footprint than some smaller printers. Here are its overall dimensions:

• Width: 453mm
• Depth: 461mm
• Height: 636mm
• Footprint: 0.21 sq. meters

Fully packed, the entire printer weighs around 24kg. So you will need a sturdy desk or table to support it. Make sure to leave some clearance on all sides for moving models and the resin vat.

The build area itself is quite large at 298 x 164 x 400mm. This volume allows you to create tall models up to 400mm, great for props, figurines, and busts. It can also print full helmets and other large wearable pieces.

If you plan to enclose the printer, allow for enough space all around for the cover. Anycubic sells an optional enclosure for the M3 Max. But you can also DIY your own enclosure from acrylic sheets or wood.

With its substantial build volume, the M3 Max footprint may require some rearranging if you have limited desk space. But the large prints it can produce make the size worthwhile.

Software and Connectivity

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max uses the Photon Workshop software for preparing and slicing prints. Photon Workshop is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux computers.

The software imports 3D models in standard file formats like STL, OBJ, 3MF, and more. It allows you to position, scale, and duplicate models as needed.

You can also add supports and generate sliced output with different print settings. The sliced files get transferred to the printer via USB or WiFi.

The printer has Ethernet and WiFi built-in for wireless printing. Just connect it to your local network to print untethered.

Anycubic has been updating the Workshop software regularly with new features. It also has access to a community firmware you can install for more controls.

Overall, the software and wireless connection gives you the tools you need for an efficient and easy printing workflow.

Printer Assembly and Maintenance

Putting together the Anycubic Photon M3 Max is pretty straightforward following the included manual. All the tools for assembly are included in the box.

Expect assembly to take 30-60 minutes for most users. The process involves:

• Attaching the z-axis guides and build plate
• Mounting the resin vat
• Installing the removable LCD screen
• Loading the resin filter and resin
• Leveling the build plate
• Testing movement and confirming level

Once built, the printer requires minimal routine maintenance besides:

• Filtering and replacing resin after prints
• Cleaning the resin vat
• Lubricating the z-axis rods
• Checking leveling and recalibrating as needed
• Cleaning the printer body and UV glass

Anycubic provides detailed steps for maintenance tasks in the user manual. Following the recommended upkeep will ensure your printer stays in top condition.

For the most part, the M3 Max has a straightforward and beginner-friendly assembly and maintenance routine.

Cost and Value

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max retails for $429 directly from Anycubic. On Amazon, it ranges from $429 to $469 depending on the seller.

At this price point, it’s very competitively priced for its build volume, print quality, and features. Models with smaller build volumes often cost nearly as much.

Considering its large 298 x 164 x 400mm build area, 4K mono LCD screen, and 50W curing light, the M3 Max delivers exceptional value. You get prosumer-level performance at a price accessible for serious hobbyists.

The value is even better when you factor in the excellent print quality. Competing printers with similar print quality tend to cost two or three times more.

Overall, the Anycubic Photon M3 Max provides outstanding value for a mid-range resin printer. You get build volume, speed, and quality that rivals far more expensive machines.

Anycubic Photon M3 Max Review Summary

The Anycubic Photon M3 Max earns a top rating for its combination of large build volume, crisp 4K resolution, robust construction, and affordable price.

It delivers professional quality prints up to 298 x 164 x 400mm for a desktop 3D printer. The removable 4K mono LCD screen produces finely detailed prints with smooth surfaces and minimal layer lines.

Print speeds up to 150mm/hour allow for efficient printing of batches of prototypes or models. The sturdy metal frame and linear rails result in reliability and consistency.

While the build volume requires a large footprint, the printer itself is reasonably compact. Anycubic’s Photon Workshop software makes slicing and printing easy even for beginners.

Considering its prosumer-level performance at just over $400, the M3 Max offers outstanding value. It outperforms many printers costing twice as much or more.

For designers, hobbyists, and professionals needing good-sized prints, the Anycubic Photon M3 Max is an excellent choice. It consistently ranks among the top resin printers for print quality, speed, features, and overall value.