Resin 3D printing feels almost like magic — but one question comes up again and again, whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned maker: how long does a resin 3D print actually take?
The short answer is: it depends. There's no single fixed number, because print time varies based on multiple factors — layer height, model size, lift speed, and the type of resin you're using, among others.
In this article, we'll break down everything that affects resin print times and — more importantly — how to optimise them without sacrificing quality. And we won't be focusing on any one brand in particular like Anycubic resins: this guide applies to any 405nm UV resin, which is the market standard used by the vast majority of printers from manufacturers like Anycubic, Elegoo, and other leading brands.
Factors that affect resin print time 📏🕒
How long a resin 3D print takes can vary depending on:
1. Layer height 🖤
Layer height determines the thickness of each cured resin layer. The thinner the layer (for example, 0.025 mm), the higher the resolution and detail — but the longer the print will take.
- Standard layer height: 0.05 mm (sharp detail with reasonable print times).
- Fast layer height: 0.1 mm (less fine detail, but significantly faster prints).
Tip: If you want faster prints without losing too much detail, 0.05 mm is the sweet spot.
2. Model Size 🎨
Model size directly impacts total print time. However, with resin printers, printing a single large model takes the same amount of time as printing multiple smaller models on the same build plate.
Pro Tip: Make the most of your build plate capacity to get the best use of your print time.
3. Exposure Settings 🔦
Each layer requires a UV exposure time to cure the resin. This time varies depending on the resin type and printer.
- Standard resins: Exposure times between 2–4 seconds per layer.
- Specialty resins: Resins such as Anycubic Texture Resin may require longer exposure times.
Recommendation: Adjust exposure times according to the resin manufacturer's guidelines. Check out our Anycubic Resin Settings Guide for more details.
4. Total Model Height 🏗️
Model height is one of the most decisive factors. A 50 mm print will be much faster than a 200 mm one, since the printer works layer by layer.
5. Type of Resin 3D Printer 🤖
Your printer's technology affects print times:
- LCD/MSLA: Offer faster print times thanks to their ability to cure an entire layer all at once.
- Laser SLA: Slower, as they cure point by point.
How Long Does an Average Print Take? 🕒
To give you a clearer idea, here are some examples:
- 30 mm miniature: ~2–3 hours.
- 100 mm figure: ~5–8 hours.
- Large diorama (150 mm+ tall): ~12–15 hours.
How to Optimize Print Times 🚀
While you can't eliminate print times entirely, there are ways to reduce them:
1. Adjust Layer Height
Increasing layer height to 0.1 mm on projects that don't require ultra-fine detail can save hours of print time.
2. Use Fast Resins
Resins like Anycubic High-Speed Resin are formulated to cure faster, significantly speeding up the printing process.
3. Optimize Model Orientation
Positioning your model at a 45° angle can reduce the number of layers needed and improve overall print quality.
Extra Time: Post-Processing 🧼
After printing, you'll need to factor in the time required to wash and cure your models:
- Cleaning: Use isopropyl alcohol to remove uncured resin (5-10 minutes). Check out our Isopropyl Alcohol Cleaning Guide.
- Final curing: Use a UV curing station to fully harden your model (5-15 minutes).
Conclusion 🎯
So, how long does a resin 3D printer take to print? It depends on factors like layer height, model size, and exposure settings. On average, prints can take anywhere from 2 to 15 hours. However, with the right settings and optimised resins, you can maximise efficiency without sacrificing quality.
Ready to take your projects to the next level? Explore our resins and tools for 3D printing at Mr Resin and bring your ideas to life. 🚀
