Compare Ender 3 vs K1 Max vs Photon

Comparison between the best 3D printers

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Model	Ender 3  [BUY Ender 3]	K1 Max  [BUY K1 Max]	Photon
Printing Material	Filament	Filament	Resin
Estimated price	$210,00	$1300,00	$100,00
Fabricante	Creality 3D	Creality 3D	Anycubic
Release Year	2018	2023	2019
Print Volume [mm]	220x220x250	300x300x300	65x115x155
Printer Size [mm]	440x440x465	435x462x526	220x200x400
Weight [kg]	6,62	18	7,2
Power Loss Recovery	NO	YES	NO
Maximum Resolution [mm]	0,1	0,1
Processor	8 bits
Display	Mono	Display touchscreen 4,3''	Touchscreen TFT 3,5''
Power Supply	24V / 270W		40W
Connectivity	SD / USB	USB / Wi-Fi / Ethernet	USB
Operating systems	Windows, Mac, Linux	Windows, Mac, Linux	Windows, Mac, Linux
Date of registration in the system	2021-04-13	2023-12-01	2021-04-15
Release date	2018	2023	2019
Extra features	The Ender 3 V1 is a DIY assembly 3D printer, a sales leader since 2017, standing out for its cost-benefit. With a wide printing capacity, it has a CNC machined structure for precision and stability. It offers high-precision prints with low noise, thanks to its innovative V-profile and pulleys. It has a self-adhesive magnetic platform for easy removal of models and excellent adhesion. The Ender 3 heats up quickly, reaching 100°C in 5 minutes, ideal for agile prints. It includes protection against power failures, allowing you to resume printing after interruptions, saving time and material.	The Creality K1 Max stands out as a fast Core XY 3D printer with a large build volume of 300 x 300 x 300 mm. It is fully enclosed and equipped with AI sensors to prevent print failures. This model has a smooth and flexible PEI build platform, and uses an automatic leveling system with LIDAR, as well as a filament run-out sensor. LAN, Creality Cloud and USB Flash Disk connectivity are available, as well as a 4.3-inch touchscreen interface. The K1 Max is robust, weighing in at 18 kg, and includes an AI camera and limited version of the Klipper firmware. Its motion system is solid and the printer is efficient with high-temperature filaments, but it is not silent. Assembly is 99% complete, requiring only minor adjustments before use.	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.
Support for multiple colors and materials (AMS and CFS)	NO	NO	NO
Notes *
Cost-benefit	6 / 10	7 / 10	6 / 10
Hardware	0.5 / 10	4.2 / 10	0 / 10
Screen	.	.	.
Print volume	3 / 10	4 / 10	3 / 10
Performance	1 / 10	5 / 10	0 / 10
	[BUY Ender 3]	[BUY K1 Max]

Conclusion

In comparing the three 3D printers—Ender 3, K1 Max, and Photon—several key factors reveal distinct advantages and trade-offs that cater to different user needs. **Ender 3** is the most budget-friendly option, appealing to those new to 3D printing or users seeking a solid entry-level machine. It boasts a respectable print volume and features designed for ease of use, such as a magnetic platform for easy print removal and efficient heating. However, it lacks advanced features like power loss recovery. Despite its basic capabilities, the Ender 3 offers a good cost-benefit ratio, making it a suitable choice for hobbyists or those on a tight budget. **K1 Max**, on the other hand, positions itself as a high-performance machine designed for professionals or serious enthusiasts. With a significantly larger print volume and advanced features such as power loss recovery, AI sensors, and automatic leveling, it offers cutting-edge technology that enhances print quality and reliability. However, this comes at a higher price point, making it a less accessible option for casual users. The robust build and extensive connectivity options provide substantial advantages in diverse printing environments. Lastly, **Photon**, as a resin printer, caters to a specific niche focusing on high-resolution printing for detailed projects. Its affordability and compact size make it ideal for users interested in resin printing without committing to a high-cost investment. Nevertheless, it has limitations in terms of build volume and requires more post-processing care, making it less suitable for large-scale prints. In conclusion, the choice between these printers ultimately depends on the user's priorities: for budget-conscious beginners, the Ender 3 stands out. For advanced users requiring high performance and a larger build volume, the K1 Max is the clear leader. For those interested in high-resolution detail work, the Photon offers a compelling solution. Each model has its strengths and weaknesses, ensuring that every potential buyer can find a printer that meets their specific needs.