Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer: Our Review
Originally posted on February 7, 2024 @ 8:17 pm
Thank you for stopping by our evaluation of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer! If finding a budget-friendly yet dependable resin printer is what brought you here, then you’re exactly where you need to be. In this review, we’re going to delve into the essential characteristics, advantages and disadvantages, the quality and efficiency of printing, connection options and user interface, and our final assessment of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer.
Key Takeaways:
- The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is an affordable option for resin printing, making it ideal for budget-conscious makers.
- Despite its low price, the printer delivers impressive print quality with fine details and minimal layering.
- However, there are some drawbacks to consider, including a lack of quality control and design flaws.
- Users may need to invest time troubleshooting and making adjustments to achieve optimal results.
- If you’re willing to put in the effort, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer can be a worthwhile investment.
Now, let’s dive into the key features of this printer and see if it meets your expectations!
Key Features of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer
The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer stands out for its exceptional affordability without compromising on features. Let’s explore the key highlights:
Affordable High-Resolution Printing
One of the remarkable advantages of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is its affordability. Priced significantly lower than other SLA printers, this budget-friendly option allows users to experience the benefits of high-resolution printing without breaking the bank.
Compatibility with Third-Party Materials
With the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer, users have the flexibility to work with a wide range of third-party materials. This feature opens up a world of possibilities, as you can explore different resins and find the perfect fit for your project requirements.
UV LEDs and LCD Screen
The printer harnesses the power of UV LEDs and an LCD screen for the printing process. This design eliminates the need for expensive laser and mirror systems, making the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer a cost-effective and practical choice for resin printing.
Competitive Build Area
While the print area of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is limited to the size of the LCD screen, it remains competitive with other entry-level SLA printers. The printer’s small build area allows for versatile usage and accommodates most common print sizes.
Overall, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer offers an affordable solution for those seeking high-resolution 3D printing capabilities. Its compatibility with third-party materials and the utilization of UV LEDs and an LCD screen make it a competitive option in the affordable SLA printer market.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
Pros and Cons of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer
Pros:
- Affordability: The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is attractively priced, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious individuals looking to venture into resin printing.
- Inexpensive Resin and Spare Parts: The availability of affordable resin and spare parts for this printer ensures cost-efficiency and easy maintenance.
- Compatibility with Third-Party Materials: Unlike some other printers, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer works seamlessly with third-party materials, providing users with greater flexibility and options.
Cons:
- Poor Software: The provided software for the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is subpar, making configuration and setup challenging. Users may need to seek alternative software solutions to overcome these issues.
- Lack of Quality Control: Users have reported failed prints and mechanical defects, indicating a lack of quality control in the manufacturing process. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting may be required to address these issues.
- Design Flaws: The printer’s exterior structure is not as sturdy as desired, and the interface is limited in functionality. These design flaws can impact the overall user experience and convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordability | Poor Software |
| Inexpensive Resin and Spare Parts | Lack of Quality Control |
| Compatibility with Third-Party Materials | Design Flaws |
Print Quality and Performance of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer
The print quality of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is truly impressive, especially considering its affordable price point. When it comes to producing detailed prints, smooth curves, and minimal layering, this printer delivers outstanding results. The 35-micron XY axis accuracy enables precise prints, making it suitable for applications like dental modeling and prototyping.
However, it’s crucial to note that the printer does have some limitations that can impact print quality. Users may encounter mechanical defects that require troubleshooting and adjustments to achieve optimal results. These issues can be time-consuming and may affect the overall performance of the printer.
Additionally, there have been reports of certain issues related to resin printing. Users have experienced challenges with WiFi connectivity, auto-leveling functionality, and leaky vats. These issues can disrupt the printing process and lead to subpar results. It’s important for users to be aware of these potential problems and take necessary precautions.
To ensure consistently high print quality and performance, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the printer’s specifications and recommended settings. Taking the time to calibrate the printer properly and using high-quality resin can also contribute to better results. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting can help address any mechanical issues that may arise.
Our team has found that despite some resin printing issues and mechanical defects, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is still capable of producing impressive prints. With proper care and attention, users can achieve satisfactory results at a fraction of the cost compared to other higher-end resin printers.
In the next section, we will explore the connectivity options and controls of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer.
Connectivity and Controls of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer
The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer offers convenient connectivity options for seamless file transfer. With both WiFi and microSD connectivity, users can effortlessly send their 3D models to the printer and start the printing process.
When it comes to controls, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer utilizes a simple, yet functional, 3-button interface. While it may not have a touchscreen like some other printers, the interface is intuitive and easy to navigate. Though it may require a bit more effort compared to touchscreens, the control buttons allow users to adjust settings and monitor printing progress with ease.
To prepare files for printing, the printer requires the use of the Creation Workshop software. This software is available exclusively for Windows users. While it generally offers a user-friendly experience, it’s important to note that it may have some idiosyncrasies and bugs that could lead to failed prints. However, with proper settings and troubleshooting, users can achieve successful prints consistently.
The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer runs quietly during operation, ensuring a smooth and undisturbed printing experience. However, it’s worth mentioning that the resin used in the printing process can emit a slight chemical odor. It’s advisable to use the printer in a well-ventilated area to minimize any discomfort from the odor.
Key points:
- WiFi and microSD connectivity options for easy file transfer.
- Straightforward 3-button interface for controls.
- Creation Workshop software for file preparation (Windows only).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer offers an affordable entry point into the world of resin printing. Priced $100 cheaper than other similar models, this printer is a budget-friendly option for those interested in exploring the possibilities of 3D printing with resin. Despite its low price, the printer manages to deliver decent print quality with fine details and smooth curves.
However, it is important to consider the reliability aspect of this printer. The lack of quality control and design flaws are significant drawbacks that cannot be ignored. Users should be prepared to invest time in troubleshooting and making adjustments to achieve optimal results. This may be a deal-breaker for those seeking a more reliable and user-friendly option.
That being said, for individuals who are willing to put in the effort and time to overcome these challenges, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer can still be a worthwhile investment. Its affordability provides an opportunity for budget-conscious makers to try out resin printing without breaking the bank. However, if reliability and ease of use are top priorities, exploring alternative models in a slightly higher price range may be a better choice.
FAQ
Is the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer affordable compared to other similar models?
Yes, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is $100 cheaper than other similar models, making it a budget-friendly option.
What is the build size of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer?
The build size of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer is relatively small compared to higher-priced resin printers.
Does the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer work with third-party materials?
Yes, the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer works with third-party materials, providing users with flexibility.
What is the print quality of the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer like?
The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer delivers surprisingly good print quality, with fine details, smooth curves, and minimal layering.
What connectivity options does the Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer have?
The Monoprice MP Mini SLA 3D Printer offers both WiFi and microSD connectivity options for easy file transfer.
