The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is a modern resin printer from Anycubic that brings new desired features that users have requested. It presents nice features that help contribute to a wonderful printing experience.
This will be a simple review of the Photon Mono M5s 3D printer. We will be going through its features, specifications, unboxing, and assembly process, leveling process, benefits, downsides, print results, and more, so stay tuned to figure out whether this machine is one for you.
First, we’ll start with the features.
Features of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
10.1″ 12k Monochrome Screen
Leveling-Free Print Platform
Fast Printing Speed
Intelligent System Checks
Anycubic Cloud App
Updated Slicer Software
Checkered Build Plate Design
4.3″ TFT Color Touchscreen
Anti-Scratch Screen Protector
10.1″ 12k Monochrome Screen
One main feature of the Photon Mono M5s is the large LCD screen. It has a 10.1-inch monochrome LCD screen featuring a 11520 x 5120 resolution, making it the first consumer-grade 12K 3D printer in the industry.
This resolution allows it to print models with minute details, even as tiny as hair thickness. It has a high contrast ratio of 480:1, which allows it to capture the smallest details.
The resolution for the XY axis is 19 microns, while the Z-axis resolution reaches just 10 to 15 microns. This level of resolution will provide your models with plenty of sharp details that can be seen and appreciated.
Leveling-Free Print Platform
The Anycubic Mono M5s does not require manual leveling after assembly. It is the first consumer-grade resin printer to feature a leveling-free mechanism. It employs mechanical sensors to detect and adjust the fit between the printing platform and the floating level module.
This ultimately eliminates the shortcomings of manual leveling, especially when it is not done properly. Also, it simplifies the printing process for users and increases the print success rate.
Fast Printing Speed
Unlike the average resin printer from other competitors, this 3D printer can complete prints 3 times faster. It can attain print speeds of about 105mm/hr using high-speed resin.
Due to this high print speed, it uses a high-speed release film to lower the release force. This ensures a much higher print success rate by reducing the release height and increasing the lift speed.
With this printer, you save a lot of time spent on printing when compared to other printers. Also, you get energy savings on running costs, since the printer does not run for the same amount of time an average printer takes to complete a print.
You do need to use Anycubic’s High Speed Resin in order to reach these faster printing speeds, along with a layer height of 0.1mm.
Intelligent System Checks
Another important feature of the Photon Mono M5s is the intelligent system checks carried out on the printer while in operation. It includes Device Check, Resin Detection, and Prints status Detection.
During its operation, the system constantly checks for connectivity of the exposure screen, the mechanical detection module, and the motor operation status. It quickly detects and troubleshoots hardware problems, ensuring smooth and non-destructive connections to help achieve printing success.
In the resin detection mode, the printer constantly checks if there is enough resin in the vat to sufficiently complete a print before you begin printing. This ultimately curbs print interruptions and failures caused by the insufficient resin.
The print status detection function will provide reminders for common failures like bottoming-out printing, significantly reducing waste of resin and time.
It also can smartly analyze the causes of failures and provides effective suggestions to ensure printing efficiency through the Anycubic app.
Anycubic Cloud App
Like other resin printers in the Anycubic lineup, this machine is also compatible with the Anycubic Cloud app. It grants extra control over the functions of the printer.
The Anycloud Cloud app allows you to transfer files directly through the Anycubic cloud after you slice the model. In previous editions of Anycubic resin printers, you had to use slicer software to copy the file to a memory card, then insert the memory card into your printer.
An added advantage of the cloud app is that there is now a library of popular sliced STL files available for you to print in one go.
You can also check the printing status of your 3D prints straight from your mobile phone, remotely. Another thing you can do is control the printer (starting or stopping) at any time.
Also, you can share your printer’s parameter settings of your successful models, or re-print them yourself. Downloading new firmware is a lot easier now since you can do this directly online with just one click.
Updated Slicer Software
The Anycubic Photon Workshop 3.1 features some new upgrades that contribute to a smooth printing experience. This new version has an “Intelligent Mode” that can match exposure parameters according to model details and size, reducing the risk of print failures caused by improper parameter settings.
Also, it has another feature known as the “Support Algorithm” which further improves the stability and success rates of prints. It also reduces damage to the model’s surface, making it easy to remove supports and bottom valves.
This feature improves the speed of punching and slicing, making the software much easier to use.
Checkered Build Plate Design
Another great feature is the checkered build plate design across its surface. This improves the level of adhesion for prints and ultimately leads to better print rate success.
Although your prints are likely to stick to the build plate, you need to use optimal bottom exposure settings to get the best out of its adhesion qualities.
4.3″ TFT Color Touchscreen
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s has a 4.3″ high-quality responsive touchscreen that is easy to operate. Its user interface is very intuitive and beginner friendly.
The screen grants the user total control of the printer by allowing the user to tweak various print settings as they wish. It also allows the user to adjust printing parameters even during printing.
The touchscreen is accurate to the touch and provides you with plenty of information that you’ll want to know about things like the progress of your print, tools to move the machine, as well as giving you access to exposure settings, and much more.
Anti-Scratch Screen Protector
There is an anti-scratch screen protector that you manually stick to the screen to stop the resin from damaging the actual LCD screen. In the long run, this simple feature will help to prolong the life span of the LCD screen.
If you experience this FEP film leak, you can simply remove the screen protector that has the cured resin on top, then replace it with a new screen protector
The screen protector is very easy to install. You only need to screen the screen with wet wipes or a wet piece of cloth. Allow it to dry and remove other debris using the dust absorber.
Printing Speed: 105mm/hour (high-speed resin), 70mm/hour (on average)
Control Panel: 4.3-inch TFT Touch Screen
Data Input: USB-A 2.0 & Wi-Fi
Power Supply: On/Off switch
Power Input: 100W rated power
Contrast Ratio: 480:1
Machine Dimensions: 290 x 270 x 460 mm (HWD)
Machine Weight: 8.9kg
Benefits of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
It has a faster print speed than the average resin printer out there in the market.
The assembly process is very quick, usually in a few minutes
The mechanical sensor on the cantilever arm helps to automatically level the printing platform. This eliminates the need for manual leveling and the risk associated with it.
Prints are of high quality due to the improved LCD screen integrated.
The box comes with various replacement parts for the printer. For example, FEP sheets.
The Anycubic Photon Mono Photon M5s have an elegant and clean design.
It is integrated with various smart features (resin detection, print status detection, etc.) that ensure a smooth printing experience.
Runs pretty quietly so you aren’t disturbed while it’s operating.
Resin vat has a “Max” mark so you don’t overfill it, and a lip to help pour resin out
It comes with screen protectors that are anti-scratch which helps to save your LCD screen from any resin spills.
Downsides of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
The build plate is slightly smaller than some of the earlier released Anycubic resin models.
The writing on the screen can get quite small when choosing a model to print
Prints can stick too well to the build plate with the wrong bottom exposure settings.
Unboxing & Assembly of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s came nicely packaged and sturdy. The box was very compact and without dents or marks. On opening the box, you see the top layer styrofoam covering the top part of the printer.
After that, you get access to the top cover of the printer which holds all the parts of the printer in place, to prevent movement during shipping.
After removing the top cover, the printing platform is placed on the top layer of styrofoam used to secure the parts of the printer in place.
The middle layer of the box houses the remaining components of the printer, which include the resin vat and a box containing the printer’s accessories. Also, you’ll find the base of the printer already coupled with the Z-axis.
Once you empty the content of the box, you should have the following:
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
Print Platform
Resin Vat
Gloves
Toolkit
Scraper
Mask
Anti-scratch film kit
USB flash drive
Power adapter
Funnel
Instruction guide
The assembly process is also very straightforward and pretty easy.
Step 1: Peel off the plastic film covering the monochrome screen.
Step 2: Apply the screen protector provided on the monochrome screen.
Step 3: Place the resin vat on the monochrome screen and hold it in place using the knob screws provided (one at either side).
Step 4: Peel off the plastic film on the printing platform and mount it on the Z-axis knob. Tighten the knob to secure the printing platform in place.
Step 5: Cover the printer with its lid.
At this point, you’re done with the assembly process.
Check out this video from Anycubic on the unboxing and assembly of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s.
Leveling of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
Unlike other resin printers from Anycubic, the Photon Mono M5s does not need to be manually leveled.
It houses a mechanical sensor on the cantilever arm that detects the fit between the printing platform and the floating leveling module and automatically adjusts its position based on the detection results.
It also eliminates the stress of manual leveling and the risk of leveling failure. It also improves printing rate success, since prints are less susceptible to layer shifts, deviations, and so on.
Customer Reviews of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s has gotten positive comments from reviewers. However, only a few customers have been able to lay their hands on it at the time of writing.
Most people who are yet to get the printer are fascinated by the new features integrated into it and can’t wait to try it out.
The assembly and self-leveling mechanism of the Anycubic Photon M5s are seen quite easily in these reviews so you can see how great the machine is. Also, more emphasis is placed on the time it takes to complete a print at different layer heights.
I came across some great reviews such from Uncle Jessy and 3D Printing Nerd which you can check out below.
Uncle Jessy
Uncle Jessy has a great review on this 3D printer, printing some high quality models and going through his experience. It’s a very positive review and you can see how well it works.
3D Printing Nerd
Another review you can check out is from 3D Printing Nerd, also printing some great looking models and testing out the high speed capabilities, using the high speed resin.
Print Quality of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s
Thor (God of War)
I love this Thor (God of War) model from the Photon Mono M5s. There’s some great detail from the hair, to the face, and the clothing as well. This was done in a 0.25mm layer height which is pretty high quality.
This Armorer model is also from Fotis Mint’s Patreon and shows some of the excellent quality from a great resin 3D printer.
The cape really stands out at the back.
Puss in Boots
Finally, we have this fantastic Puss in Boots model from Thingiverse. It’s surprisingly not too popular right now so give it a download and see how well it comes out.
The model looks really detailed, along with the sword and feather hat that this character is known for.
Verdict – Worth Buying or Not?
The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s is one printer that I will recommend to anyone who is looking to get into resin printing. It is also a printer that I would recommend for one looking to get a second printer.
It features lots of upgrades that contribute to a smooth printing experience. Its major selling point is its ultra-fast print speed and its self-leveling mechanism integrated into the printer. Its resolution is as crisp as it gets and the build volume would be sufficient for most resin models.
At the price of around $550, it’s a pretty competitively priced machine that many users will love, especially when you consider the features it offers.
Michael Dwamena is the founder of 3D Printerly, a platform dedicated to simplifying 3D printing for hobbyists and professionals alike. Owns over 20 3D printers (filament and resin) and has plenty experience 3D printing. Michael has authored over 900 articles, helping millions navigate the exciting world of 3D printing.
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