Verdict
All guidesResearchOpen dataMethodologyAboutContact
Head-to-head · Best Resin 3d Printers

Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra vs Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

Verdict is reader-supported. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you click through and buy, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our ratings are sourced from independent publications, not sponsors.
The short answer

Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.2 vs 3.9). Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S is best for: Budget-conscious buyers wanting large-format prints. Read the strengths below before deciding.

Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra
Ranked #6 in Best Resin 3d Printers
Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra
1 source$265.99as of Oct 11

The Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra is a compact resin 3D printer designed for detailed small-format prints, particularly gaming accessories. Reviewers noted its mono light engine delivers better resolution and light energy than standard RGB panels. The printer ships extremely well packed with multiple protective films, though this adds complexity to setup. Users appreciate its support for high-speed resins and its suitability for intricate models. However, some found the assembly process cumbersome due to misaligned protective films and inconsistent power supply accessories. It's best suited for users seeking precision over large build volumes.

Strengths
  • — Features a mono light engine for better resolution and light energy compared to standard RGB-tinted panels
  • — Well-packed with protective films and accessories, ensuring safe shipment and setup
  • — Supports high-speed printing with Anycubic's High Speed Resin, offering faster print times
Watch-outs
  • — Power cord shipped with European plug; lacks standard three-wire connector in included accessories
  • — Instructions are light on safety aspects and lack clarity for some assembly steps
$265.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S
Higher ratedRanked #4 in Best Resin 3d Printers
Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S
1 source$1,199.99as of Oct 11

Phrozen's Sonic Mega 8K S is a large-format LCD printer that strips out expensive components to reduce cost while maintaining premium standards. Tom's Hardware praised its construction and reliability, though reviewers noted that its print quality is less sharp than expected due to 43-micron pixels spread across a 15-inch screen. The printer's 330x185 mm build area and 8K resolution are highlighted as key specifications. This product is best suited for users seeking a robust, reliable printer rather than maximum resolution. Those expecting ultra-sharp detail comparable to 4K or higher resolution printers may find it underwhelming.

Strengths
  • — Largest mono LCD in Phrozen's range, with a 330 x 185 mm build plate
  • — Quoted at 600 layers per hour, quick for a plate this size
  • — Built-in resin drip hanger and lift-up lid make large prints less messy
Watch-outs
  • — Print quality comparable to smaller resolution printers like the Sonic Mini 4K with 35-micron pixels
  • — Pixels are 43 microns, making it less sharp than expected for an 8K resolution
$1,199.99 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra

The Anycubic Photon Mono 4 Ultra lists a 17 x 17 μm pixel size, close to the 18 x 18 µm of the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra and finer than the 22 µm of the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S. Its 154.22 x 87.04 mm build area is slightly larger than the Mars 5 Ultra's 153.36 x 77.76 mm, with the same 165 mm height. At 4 kg it weighs less than half the Mars 5 Ultra's 8.8 kg.

Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S

The Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S has a 330x185 mm build plate, larger than the 300 x 160 mm footprint of the Uniformation GK3 Ultra. Its 43-micron pixels are coarser than the 22 µm of the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K S and the 18 x 18 µm of the Elegoo Mars 5 Ultra. The GK3 Ultra has a heated build chamber and an auto resin refill system.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAnycubic Photon Mono 4 UltraPhrozen Sonic Mega 8K S
Build Volume154.22 x 87.04 x 165 mm330x185 mm
Light SourceMono (single color cells)405nm ParaLED Matrix 3.0
UV Wavelength405nm resin, including Anycubic High Speed Resin405nm
MaterialABS, Aluminum, PolycarbonateMetal
Dimensions15"D x 10"W x 20"H18.6"D x 15"W x 22.3"H
Weight4 kg26 kg
Display Resolution10K8K
Pixel Size17 x 17 μm43 microns
Print Speed120mm/h600 layers/hr
Layer Height0.02-0.15 mm0.01-0.30 mm
← See the full ranking of best resin 3d printers