Is the Anycubic Photon P1 a revolution?

Anycubic Photon P1: the dual-color resin revolution?

Resin is trending and Anycubic knows it. After surprising us with machines like the Photon M7 Pro and the Photon Mono M5s, the Chinese giant is back with its new Anycubic Photon P1, a dual-color MSLA 3D printer that promises to change the way we print in resin.

Why? Because not only is it the first of its kind to offer a system with two build platforms and two vats, but it also introduces improvements in precision, print success rates, and material savings that make it a perfect candidate both for those who print miniatures and for makers looking for professional-looking finishes.

This article is a complete guide to the Photon P1: we'll go over its key features, explain how its dual system works, compare it with other reference 3D printers, and give you our Mr Resin take on it.

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What makes the Anycubic Photon P1 so special?

Resin 3D printers used to be synonymous with infinite patience and complicated maintenance. The Photon P1 breaks that myth by introducing a dual-color concept that allows printing two materials or colors at the same time. This is achieved thanks to:

• Two print platforms and two resin tanks that can alternate automatically, avoiding mixing colors or materials and reducing waste. It is perfect for Warhammer fans or multicolor miniature enthusiasts, but also for those who need to combine resins of different hardness (for example, a rigid body with rubber details).

• Compatibility with high-viscosity resins (up to 8,000 cps) thanks to its wave release system and intelligent dynamic balance. You won't have to worry about resins that are too thick: the P1 can handle everything, from dental resin to ultra-transparent compounds.

  We leave here the link to all Anycubic resins so you can browse the main compatible products.

• Wave Release Film + NFEP. This combination reduces the separation force between layers by 60%, so prints release smoothly and there is less risk of the part detaching prematurely. In addition, the NFEP film is highly transparent, which ensures that light reaches the entire surface evenly.

• 98% print success rate according to Anycubic. Thanks to automatic leveling 3.0, dynamic release force calibration, and light-off time adjustment between layers, the P1 achieves an extremely high success rate. These are not just empty words: Anycubic has published data showing that the P1 improves dimensional accuracy by 50% to 80% compared to similar machines, increases print volume by 10%, and saves between 20% and 30% of resin.

A look at the technology inside the Photon P1

14K LCD and detail resolution

The P1 features a 10.1-inch monochrome LCD screen with 14K resolution (11520 × 5120 pixels). This translates to a pixel size of just 16.8 μm on the X axis and 24.8 μm on Y, finer than many competing 12K or even 8K 3D printers. The minimum layer height it can print is 20 μm on Z, resulting in extremely fine details and much smoother surfaces than mid-range 3D printers. For those who paint miniatures, this means less sanding and an ideal base for applying primer coats or airbrushing.

Uniform light and collimated Fresnel

Anycubic has developed the LightTurbo 4.0 lighting system, which combines a COB (chip‑on‑board) source with a reflector and a collimating Fresnel lens. This architecture directs UV light very precisely and maintains a uniformity of over 92% across the screen. The result is cured layers with the same intensity across the entire plane, avoiding overexposure areas and improving part cohesion.

Industrial mechanisms for maximum precision

The central pillar of the P1 is an industrial-grade ball screw guide with dual rail system. This mechanism guarantees a repeatability of ±0.01 mm over more than 10,000 cycles. The build plate flatness is below 80 µm and the LCD panel flatness does not exceed 70 µm, which prevents artifacts and warping. In addition, the machine incorporates an auto-leveling 3.0 system that completely eliminates manual adjustments: simply press a button and the P1 calibrates itself.

Smart resin and temperature control

A particularly noteworthy feature is the 1-litre smart resin tank, capable of automatically heating the resin up to 40°C. This speeds up the curing process and improves initial adhesion. In addition, the tank detects the remaining amount of resin and communicates with the system to prevent printing when empty.

The build platform is magnetically attached and can be quickly removed for cleaning or changing the vat. The resin tray includes a drainage system that saves time and reduces spills when removing it.

Touchscreen and software

Control is handled via a 4.5″ resistive touchscreen. It is smaller than the one found on models like the Photon M7 Pro, but sufficient for navigating menus, selecting files or launching automatic leveling. You can also monitor printing remotely via the Anycubic app, which allows you to pause or cancel jobs, update firmware via OTA and receive error notifications such as resin shortage or power outages. Additionally, the P1 is compatible with Photon Workshop, Chitubox, Tango and Lychee Slicer.

Key specifications in figures

Note: The 3D printer can operate on both 110 V and 220 V and accepts high-viscosity resins (up to 8,000 cps). The air purifier is optional.

Comparison with other benchmark 3D printers

Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra: the 12K rival

The Elegoo Saturn 4 Ultra is currently considered one of the best resin 3D printers for general use. It features a 10.1″ mono screen with 12K resolution (11520 × 5120) and a build area of 218.8 × 122.8 × 220 mm. It stands out for its automatic leveling system, a tilting vat that reduces suction force, and an integrated camera for timelapses and remote monitoring. Its XY resolution is 19 × 24 µm, slightly lower than the 16.8 µm of the Photon P1. As for extras, the Saturn 4 Ultra does not offer dual printing as standard, and its build volume is slightly smaller. Both compete in the same price range, but the P1 excels in detail and flexibility for multicolor miniatures.

Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8K: the big workhorse

If you're looking for volume, the Phrozen Sonic Mighty 8K offers 218 × 123 × 235 mm and 8K resolution. Its strong point is ease of use: it comes pre-assembled with very user-friendly software. However, its pixel size of 28 µm puts it behind in terms of detail. It also lacks extras such as dual printing, resin heating, or the advanced automatic leveling of the P1. It's a great option for printing large miniatures, but if precision and fine finishes matter to you, the Photon P1 surpasses it.

Formlabs Form 4: the business option

The Formlabs Form 4 is the dream of any rapid prototyping business: it offers a build volume of 200 × 125 × 210 mm, a 4K screen, and an ecosystem of proprietary resins of the highest quality. The catch? Its price is around €4,000 (or more, if you add the washing and curing kit). The Photon P1 may not match the industrial robustness and reliability of Formlabs, but for a fraction of the price it offers features that bring it close to that segment: high resolution, dual system, and a 98% print success rate. For makers and small businesses, the P1 represents an outstanding balance between price and performance.

Anycubic Photon M7 Pro and M7 Max: is it worth upgrading?

The Anycubic Photon M7 Pro and Photon M7 Max are high-speed FDM 3D printers (not MSLA) from Anycubic's FDM range, designed for rapid prototyping in thermoplastics. Although some comparisons mistakenly include them, they do not compete directly with the P1 because they use different technology. However, if you already have an M7 Pro for your functional parts, a P1 will perfectly complement your arsenal for miniatures and highly detailed parts.

Pros and cons of the Anycubic Photon P1

Pros 🟢

• Dual printing: prints two colors or materials at the same time without mixing resins, ideal for two-color miniatures or rigid/flexible combinations.

• Compatibility with viscous resins: can work with dense materials of up to 8,000 cps, expanding the range of available resins (dental, ultra-clear, etc.).

• True high resolution: 14K and 16.8 µm pixels; produces excellent detail without any loss of definition.

• Wave Release + NFEP: reduces peel force and prevents adhesion failures.

• Intelligent resin heating system: ensures the right temperature and improves the success rate.

• Leveling 3.0 and automatic calibration: eliminates tedious manual setup; just press a button.

• Ideal for miniatures and hobby: the 223 × 126 mm build plate fits several bases at once.

Cons 🔴

• Resistive touchscreen: inferior to the 5″ capacitive screens found on models like the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra; may feel less responsive to the touch.

• Optional air purifier: the Air Pure 2.0 system does not come as standard, which is important if you print in enclosed spaces (although you can use masks and external ventilation).

• Launch price: while not as expensive as Formlabs, the P1 will likely be priced above basic 6K or 8K printers. It may be worth waiting for deals or bundles with washing and curing.

• Resin screen not user-replaceable: if the LCD screen gets damaged, you will need to contact official technical support. This is common to many modern MSLA printers.

Usage and maintenance tips for the P1

1. Make sure the temperature is right: resin performs best between 20 °C and 30 °C. If your workshop is cold, activate the resin heater or print with the lid closed.

2. Keep the NFEP film clean: a dirty film creates bubbles and defects. Clean with 99% isopropanol and check the screen from time to time.

3. Do not use metal objects to detach parts: you can scratch the aluminium plate and affect its flatness. Use plastic or thin steel spatulas.

4. Store resins tightly sealed and away from sunlight. Photosensitive resins degrade with light and air.

5. Update the firmware when the app recommends it. Anycubic regularly fixes bugs and adds improvements.

6. Check the levelling from time to time. Although the 3.0 system self-calibrates, it is worth verifying it if you notice issues with the first layers.

Who is the Anycubic Photon P1 for?

• Miniature hobbyists: those who print Warhammer, busts or dioramas will find a perfect ally in the P1. The 14K quality and dual system allow you to create two-colour pieces without needing to hand-paint details, saving time on airbrushing and brushwork.

• Jewellers and prototypers: the millimetre-level resolution and Z tolerance of 20 µm make it possible to produce jewellery masters, dental models and prototypes with great precision.

• Engineering enthusiasts: thanks to compatibility with rigid or even high-viscosity flexible resins, the P1 is suitable for producing functional parts with greater strength.

• Creative makers: if you enjoy experimenting with FDM filaments and resins, the P1 opens up a whole new world for combining rigidity and elasticity, creating translucent casings and experimenting with blends.

Conclusion and Mr Resin Opinion

The Anycubic Photon P1 is a bold move that marks the beginning of a new era for home MSLA 3D printers. Its dual printing system, its capacity for dense resins and its 14K resolution make it a highly versatile tool, perfect for those who want miniatures with more than one color without the need for post-painting or for users seeking extreme detail in their pieces. Although the touchscreen is somewhat small and some extras are sold separately, the build quality, automation and the 98% improvement in print success justify its price.

If you are passionate about modelling, jewellery, dentistry or simply want to take your 3D projects to the next level, the P1 deserves to be on your radar. It offers more precision than many 12K models, saves resin thanks to its release film and dual tank system, and brings smart features that make life easier for those who don't want to spend time calibrating. We've tested it and it surprises. It's likely that in a few months we'll see other manufacturers trying to follow in its footsteps.

Ready to experiment with multicolor resins and microscopic scales? The Anycubic Photon P1 could be your ideal companion.

And if you're looking for where to buy 3D resin , don't forget to check out this article!