Anycubic Photon P1 Resin 3D Printer and Dual-Material Print Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Best for: Hobbyists printing highly detailed miniatures, figurines and models
Not for: Anyone needing large or functional parts, or who can't manage resin washing, curing and ventilation
Bottom line: A resin 3d printer, a detail-focused choice for miniatures and detailed models.
The Anycubic Photon P1 presents as a capable resin printer for users prioritising high detail and repeatable output, built around a 14K high-resolution screen and designed for precision work with a composite tolerance stated at under 0.05mm. It targets accuracy-focused use cases such as dentistry, engineering, and prototyping, and includes Intelligent Assistant 3.0 features such as auto-leveling self-checks, real-time force monitoring, and AI inspection that may help reduce failures in batch runs. Dual-material printing is mentioned in the review context.
Key specifications
| Spec area | Claimed detail Notes |
|---|---|
| Screen | 14K resolution high-detail focus |
| Motion | ball screw composite tolerance under 0.05mm |
| Optics | >98% illumination uniformity LighTurbo 4.0 |
Pros
- Excellent fine detail and smooth surfaces
- Detail-focused resin printing
Cons
- Resin needs washing, UV curing and good ventilation
- Smaller build volume than most FDM printers
- Consumables (filament/resin, nozzles/FEP) add to running cost
Build Volume and Print Size
With a claimed 6.5L build volume, this 3D printer is positioned for both batch work and larger single-model print runs, which can help reduce turnaround time when parts are needed for dentistry, engineering, or prototyping. The resin 3D workspace is designed to support multi-part jobs, so components can be queued in the same print instead of running one item per job. For dual-material printing experiments, the larger enclosure space can help fit bigger adapters, fixtures, or mating pieces into a single batch.
Print Speed and Quality
Often, print speed and print quality on the Anycubic are discussed together because the focus is on consistent, high-detail resin output rather than the fastest possible runs. The 3D printer resin 3D printer is designed for sharp results with its 14K high-resolution screen, supported by an industrial-grade ball screw, for a composite tolerance under 0.05 mm. It uses an optical system with over 98% illumination uniformity, which helps maintain a consistent look across the build. Print speed is influenced by the Wave Release Technology, which can reduce peeling force by 60%, supporting heavier, higher-viscosity layers. Dual-material prints may still show slight variations, depending on resin flow and calibration.
Filament Compatibility
Filament compatibility is not a key strength topic for the Anycubic because it is a resin 3D printer rather than an FDM machine, so typical filament-orientated compatibility guidance does not apply. With the 3D printer resin setup, the focus must be on resin compatibility rather than plastic spool fit. The manufacturer states it supports specialised engineering, dental, and high-strength resins up to 8000 cps, but it does not specify compatibility with PETG, PLA, or TPU.
Build Plate and Levelling
Build-plate performance and levelling are critical for any resin job, because resin printing depends on an even exposure layer across the full surface. On the Anycubic Photon P1 resin 3d printer within a dual-material print workflow, the build plate must be level before each run. Otherwise, adhesion and surface detail are affected. The printer's auto-leveling self-checks help confirm plate position, which reduces first-layer issues during batch printing in its 6.5L build volume. During setup, height checks are still required, and the plate should be cleaned and rechecked after spills or reinstalling it.
Software and Slicer Compatibility
After the build plate has been levelled and the first-layer setup has been verified, the next stage is matching the model files to the printer's workflow, starting with software and slicer compatibility. For the anycubic photon p1 resin 3d printer, the required output format is not stated, although slices are described as commonly supported by standard resin slicers. Models should be oriented and scaled before slicing, then printed using settings that match the resin viscosity range, up to 8000cps. For dual-material print concepts, separate parts must be sliced and aligned.
Setup and Learning Curve
Setting up the Anycubic for reliable results is mostly about getting the fundamentals right first, since resin printing can fail if small steps are skipped. Start by confirming screen calibration and then running the printer's auto-leveling self-checks. Pour compatible resin into a clean tank and run a short test print. With the 3D printer resin 3D printer, build orientation and support placement matter because resin models react to lift forces. The dual-material print price also brings extra setup time and resin handling, plus cleaning between materials.
Noise and Enclosure
Noise and enclosure matter with the Anycubic because resin printing involves continuous motion of the build system and frequent screen exposure cycles, even when the printer is running quietly compared with some other processes. A dedicated space is beneficial, as a sealed enclosure helps limit light leaks and contains resin odours. The enclosure also improves overall workflow, but it can reduce visibility during prints. For dual-material print workflows, better insulation can reduce disturbances; switching resins still requires careful access during setup.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance are part of owning the 3D printer, since resin handling does not end once a print finishes. After each print cycle, the user removes the build plate carefully, rinses the parts in the recommended cleaning bath, and wipes the vat rim. Any cured resin scraps on the screen are checked, and only gentle, non-scratching cleaning is used. The vat and seals are dried fully, because residue can cloud prints. Soft gloves and sealed containers reduce spills, and regular checks prevent buildup.
Who Is This 3D Printer For?
This 3D printer is best suited to users who need high-detail resin prints and can handle a resin workflow, because it is a resin-based printer rather than a plug-and-play FDM model. The machine targets professional and lab use, where precision and reliability are required for applications such as dentistry, engineering, and prototyping. A 14K high-resolution screen and a composite tolerance under 0.05 mm support detailed parts, while Intelligent Assistant 3.0 is designed to help reduce failures using auto-leveling checks, real-time force monitoring, and AI inspection. Its 6.5 L build volume also supports batch work for studios and laboratories.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where to Buy
UK buyers can get the Anycubic resin 3D printer through UK retailers and online marketplaces that list the model by name, including Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, and Argos. Before ordering, confirm the key specifications shown in the listing, including the 14K high-resolution screen and the 6.5L build volume. For best results with dual-material printing, check that the resin choices match the printer's stated support and intended resin types. The manufacturer notes support up to 8000cps and use of specialised engineering, dental, and high-strength resins, so the listing should align with those compatibility details. It is also worth verifying that the listing mentions the Intelligent Assistant 3.0 features, along with Wave Release Technology and batch-friendly reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Anycubic Photon P1 printer good for beginners and home use?
Features like automatic bed levelling make the Anycubic Photon P1 printer approachable for newcomers. Expect a short learning curve around slicing and resin handling, after which home printing is straightforward.
Is the Anycubic printer an FDM or resin printer, and what is the difference?
The Anycubic Photon P1 printer is a resin (LCD/MSLA) printer. Resin gives the finest detail for miniatures and models, but every print must be washed in IPA and UV-cured in a ventilated space.
Is the Anycubic printer worth it?
If you enjoy making detailed miniatures and models, a printer like the Anycubic Photon P1 printer pays off over time. Factor in resin, IPA and curing supplies as the main ongoing cost, and check the current Amazon UK price.
How much does it cost to run the Anycubic printer?
Running costs are mainly consumables: resin (plus IPA for washing and replacement FEP film). Electricity use is modest, so budget mostly for resin and curing supplies.
What post-processing does the Anycubic Photon P1 printer need?
Resin prints must be washed in IPA and cured under UV light. Work in a ventilated area and wear gloves, as uncured resin is an irritant.
What software does the Anycubic Photon P1 printer use?
The Anycubic printer works with common slicers such as Chitubox or Lychee, which turn 3D models into printable files.
