Compare Photon vs M5

Comparison between the best 3D printers

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3D Printer Photon 3D Printer M5
Modelo

Photon

M5

Buy Resin forAnycubic Photon Buy Filament forAnkerMake M5
Estimated price $100,00 $497,00
Manufacturer Anycubic AnkerMake
Release Year 2019 2023
Print Volume [mm] 65x115x155 235x235x250
Printer Size [mm] 220x200x400 502x438x470
Weight [kg] 7,2 12,6
Power Loss Recovery NO YES
Maximum Resolution [mm] 0,1
Processor
Display Touchscreen TFT 3,5'' Touchscreen 4,3''
Power Supply 40W 350 W
Connectivity USB Wi-Fi, USB-C, OTA Upgrade
Operating systems Windows, Mac, Linux Windows, Linux, Macbook
Date of registration in the system 2021-04-15 2024-07-08
Release date 2019 2023
Extra features The Anycubic Photon DLP is a resin 3D printer that stands out for its affordability and quality. It uses DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology to cure resin layers with precision, offering resolution of 25-100 microns. Its build volume is 115 x 65 x 155 mm, suitable for modest-sized projects. It includes a 2.8-inch touchscreen, USB and SD card connectivity, and a carbon filter to mitigate odors. It is notable for generating efficient support structures through its custom slicing software. Although it requires care in resin handling and post-processing, it is an excellent option for beginners and professionals who want to explore resin 3D printing with high resolution and ease of use. The AnkerMake M5 printer stands out for its impressive print speed, reaching up to 500mm/s. It features AI print monitoring, an integrated camera for creating timelapses, auto-leveling bed with pressure sensor, direct extruder, flexible PEI-coated build plate, and Wi-Fi and USB-C connectivity. Assembly is quick and easy, and the printer is designed to deliver high print quality and ease of use.
Support for multiple colors and materials (AMS and CFS) NO NO

Notes *

Cost-benefit 6 / 10 7 / 10
Hardware 0 / 10 4.5 / 10
Tela . .
Print volume 3 / 10 3 / 10
Performance 0 / 10 4 / 10

Conclusion

In comparing the Anycubic Photon and the AnkerMake M5, several key differences emerge that cater to different user needs and preferences.

The Anycubic Photon, released in 2019, is a budget-friendly resin printer ideal for beginners and those interested in high-resolution prints for small to moderate-sized projects. Its compact build volume and affordability make it a suitable choice for hobbyists who prioritize resolution over scalability. However, it lacks advanced features such as power loss recovery and modern connectivity options, which may limit its flexibility in certain scenarios.

In contrast, the AnkerMake M5, a newer model from 2023, offers a significant leap in functionality and print performance. With a larger build volume and impressively fast print speeds, it is better suited for users looking for efficiency and versatility in their 3D printing projects. The inclusion of features such as AI print monitoring, auto-leveling, and Wi-Fi connectivity enhances usability and convenience, catering well to both enthusiasts and professional users.

While the Photon offers a solid entry point into resin printing at a lower price, the M5 provides a more comprehensive set of features for those willing to invest more. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the user's budget, project scale, and the desired level of quality and convenience in their 3D printing experience. For those focused on high-detail, smaller projects, the Photon may suffice. However, for users needing speed, larger print volumes, and modern features, the AnkerMake M5 stands out as the superior option.