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Short answer: The Anycubic Photon P1 MAX is worth considering if you need genuinely large resin prints and can accommodate a 23.1 kg machine, resin cleanup, ventilation and post-processing equipment. Its 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm build volume, heated 1.9-liter vat and Wave Release screen cover are meaningful advantages over a typical desktop resin printer. If you mostly print small figures, terrain pieces or miniatures, the smaller Photon P1 is the more sensible comparison because the MAX’s extra capacity comes with a much larger footprint and higher setup demands.
The specifications and hands-on observations below come from Matt Farmer’s Tom’s Hardware review, published September 7, 2026. Prices, coupons, firmware behavior and compatibility can change, so treat the dated figures as reference points rather than current offers.
What is the Anycubic Photon P1 MAX, and who is it for?
The Photon P1 MAX is a large-format masked-resin 3D printer. It uses a 12K monochrome LCD to cure liquid photopolymer resin layer by layer, with a reported 24.8 × 24.8 micrometer X/Y resolution and a normal exposure time of 2.0 seconds. Its defining specification is the 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm build volume (11.2 × 8.4 × 11.8 inches), which gives you considerably more room for one large model or several smaller models in a single job.
That capacity is useful for cosplay parts, masks, large display figures, engineering prototypes and batches of miniatures. It is less compelling when your normal work consists of single small models, because resin printing still requires supports, washing, drying, UV curing, protective equipment and solvent handling regardless of the printer’s size. Tom’s Hardware’s full specification list and testing notes are available in its Anycubic Photon P1 MAX review.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Choose the MAX when its build envelope solves a real production problem. Choose a smaller machine when the extra volume would sit unused and you would rather reduce floor space, resin inventory and the amount of post-processing per print.
What are the Photon P1 MAX’s main specifications?
The following figures are the product specifications reported by Tom’s Hardware in 2026; they are not independent laboratory measurements.
| Specification | Photon P1 MAX | What it means in practice |
|---|---|---|
| Build volume | 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm (11.2 × 8.4 × 11.8 in) | Large enough for substantial single parts or multiple models per plate |
| LCD | 12K monochrome | High-resolution masking for fine XY detail |
| X/Y resolution | 24.8 × 24.8 µm | Reported pixel size on the build plane |
| Optical system | COB light source, reflector and aspherical Fresnel lens | Distributes curing light across the LCD |
| Normal exposure | 2.0 seconds | A baseline setting; resin and layer parameters can require adjustment |
| Vat heating | 35°C (95°F) | Maintains the vat at the temperature reported in the review |
| Vat capacity | 1,900 ml (1.9 L) | Supports long or high-volume jobs, but also holds more resin to manage safely |
| Connectivity | USB and Wi‑Fi | Files can be transferred locally by either connection method |
| Display | 4.5-inch resistive touchscreen | Menu control through a pressure-sensitive panel |
| Printer footprint | 430 × 414 × 625 mm | Measure your bench, cabinet and access path before purchase |
| Weight | 23.1 kg | Plan a permanent, stable location rather than frequent movement |
Is the large build volume worth the MAX’s size?
It is worth it when you routinely exceed the dimensions of a conventional desktop resin printer or need to place many parts on one plate. A 300 mm Z height allows taller pieces, while the 285.5 mm by 214 mm footprint on the plate can accommodate broad objects such as mask shells or grouped production parts.
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The trade-off is physical and operational. The printer itself measures 430 × 414 × 625 mm and weighs 23.1 kg before you add a resin bottle, wash container, curing equipment, gloves, safety glasses and solvent storage. The large 1.9-liter vat also means a spill or failed print can involve more resin. Reserve a stable surface with enough room to work around the machine and to remove the build plate without bumping nearby items.
Tom’s Hardware names the Photon P1 as an alternative for buyers who do not need the MAX’s larger area, but the review does not provide a systematic P1-versus-P1 MAX test or a complete set of P1 specifications. Treat the comparison as a capacity decision, not as a measured speed or quality ranking.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How do the heated vat and Wave Release system help?
The vat is reported to maintain 35°C (95°F). In a resin workflow, keeping material at a controlled temperature can make a cold-room setup easier to manage, but the review does not establish warm-up time, temperature uniformity or performance across different resin formulas. Use the printer’s stated temperature as a feature, not as a guarantee that every resin will print without calibration.
The most distinctive hardware feature is the Wave Release system. The review describes a screen cover intended to reduce trapped air bubbles and make cured parts easier to release; Matt Farmer calls it “The most unique feature on the P1 MAX.” That is the reviewer’s assessment of the tested unit, not an independently measured release-force result.
The vat slides into the chassis and includes a drop tray. A flip-up/flip-down locking mechanism secures the build plate, and the review praises the large plate and locking design. Those details matter when you are handling a heavy, resin-coated plate, because a positive lock reduces the chance of accidental movement while transferring it to a wash container.
What comes in the box, and how should you set it up?
The printer arrives assembled. Tom’s Hardware reports a metal scraper, plastic scraper, Allen keys, manual, USB drive and power cord in the package. The USB drive contains Photon Workshop, test files and a digital manual.
- Choose the location. Put the 23.1 kg printer on a rigid, level surface in a well-ventilated room. Keep the work area clear for the build plate, resin containers and cleaning supplies.
- Inspect the machine. Remove shipping materials, check the LCD and vat area for damage, and confirm that the plate lock moves through its full range.
- Install the vat. Slide the vat into position, verify that it is seated, and use the supplied instructions to secure it before adding resin.
- Connect power and control the printer. Turn it on with the touchscreen. The display is a 4.5-inch resistive panel, so deliberate pressure rather than a light capacitive tap may be needed.
- Level the build plate. Follow the current on-screen leveling procedure and the manual. Do not assume that an older video or review-unit sequence matches the firmware on your machine.
- Prepare resin. Shake the resin according to its label, pour only what the job requires, and keep the bottle and vat away from contamination.
- Run a test file. Use one of the supplied files before committing a large quantity of resin. Confirm that the first layers adhere and that the plate lock remains secure.
- Plan post-processing before printing. Have wash containers, clean solvent, drying space, UV-curing equipment, gloves and eye protection ready before the job finishes.
Are there firmware or AI caveats to know about?
Yes. Tom’s Hardware reports an early firmware issue in the review unit’s leveling flow and says the printer’s AI features could be touchy. Those observations apply to the tested unit and firmware at the time of the September 7, 2026 publication; they do not prove that every current machine has the same behavior.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Before a production run, check the printer’s installed firmware, Anycubic’s current update notes and the exact leveling instructions supplied with your unit. If an AI-assisted function behaves unpredictably, disable it and use the manual controls and standard slicing workflow. Keep a known-good test file so you can separate a firmware change from a resin, support or leveling problem.
How does the slicing and printing workflow work?
Resin printing is a chain of preparation steps rather than a single “send” command. Photon Workshop is included, and the review says Chitubox and Lychee also support the printer. The software must turn a model into layers, add supports, create drain and exposure settings where needed, and export a file the P1 MAX can read.
- Orient the model. Angle broad surfaces to control suction and reduce the size of any single cross-section.
- Add supports. Place them on hidden or easily repaired areas, then inspect islands and overhangs layer by layer.
- Hollow large parts when appropriate. Add drainage openings so uncured resin cannot remain trapped inside a hollow object.
- Select a resin profile. Start with the resin manufacturer’s recommended exposure range, then make small calibration changes. The 2.0-second normal exposure figure is the printer specification reported by the review, not a universal setting for every material.
- Preview the layers. Look for unsupported islands, unexpected intersections and areas that could trap resin before exporting.
- Transfer the file. Use USB or Wi‑Fi, both listed as connectivity options, and verify the filename and estimated resin use on the printer.
- Check the first layers. If adhesion fails, stop the job safely, remove cured debris and revisit leveling, exposure, plate cleanliness and support density before trying again.
The 12K monochrome LCD and 24.8 µm X/Y resolution are most useful when the model, optics, resin and exposure are all properly calibrated. A high pixel count cannot compensate for poor supports or an incorrectly leveled plate.
What print times and resin volumes did the review report?
Tom’s Hardware used Anycubic Standard Resin for the examples below. These are individual prints from that article, not promises of typical speed, cost or success rate.
| Example | Reported print time | Reported resin use | Layer height |
|---|---|---|---|
| Figure | 7 hours 24 minutes | 254 ml | 0.050 mm |
| Figure | 14 hours 15 minutes | 1,106 ml | Not stated |
| Two-part mask | 6 hours 5 minutes | 519 ml | Not stated |
These examples show why the MAX’s capacity can be valuable: a large mask or a high-volume batch can use hundreds of milliliters in one run. They also show why resin budgeting matters. A failed job at this scale wastes more material and creates more contaminated cleanup than a failed miniature on a small plate.
Rank #4
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- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
How do you wash and cure P1 MAX prints?
Every successful print still needs washing, drying and UV curing. The review recommends drying parts before curing, because residual solvent or rinse liquid can affect the surface while the part is exposed to UV.
- Drain excess resin. Let the print drip over the vat or a disposable, resin-safe container before removing it from the plate.
- Remove the print. Use the supplied scraper carefully and keep the blade pointed away from your hands.
- Wash the part. Agitate it in clean isopropyl alcohol or the solvent specified for your resin. Use separate containers if you need a dirty first wash and a cleaner final wash.
- Dry completely. Allow the part to air-dry in a controlled area before curing, as recommended in the review.
- UV-cure. Cure according to the resin maker’s guidance, rotating the part so all surfaces receive appropriate exposure.
- Process supports and waste. Remove supports after washing or curing as appropriate for the resin, and fully harden liquid-contaminated waste before disposal under local rules.
A wash-and-cure station is not included with the printer. Tom’s Hardware reports a separate Anycubic Wash and Cure station priced at $249 at publication; availability and price require rechecking. You can use manual wash and UV equipment, but that adds handling time and makes a dedicated, ventilated workspace more valuable.
What safety and ventilation equipment do you need?
Liquid photopolymer resin and resin-contaminated solvent require deliberate handling. The review recommends gloves, safety glasses and a well-ventilated room. Wear the protection whenever you pour resin, remove prints, scrape the plate or clean tools.
- Ventilation: The printer has a rear vent opening, but the review says no hose is included. If you connect extraction, source a hose that physically fits your installation and route exhaust safely; the review does not certify a particular ventilation arrangement.
- Skin and eye protection: Keep disposable gloves and safety glasses at the printer, and replace contaminated gloves rather than touching handles, keyboards or phones.
- Spill control: Use resin-resistant trays and absorbent material. Keep uncured resin out of sinks, floors and ordinary household waste.
- Solvent disposal: Do not pour resin-contaminated isopropyl alcohol down the drain. Allow contaminated liquid to cure or use a disposal method required by your local authority.
- Storage: Keep resin containers closed, labeled and away from direct light, children and pets.
How much does the Photon P1 MAX cost to own?
The printer’s price is time-sensitive. Tom’s Hardware reported the following figures on September 7, 2026.
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|---|---|---|
| Reported presale price | $1,103 | Publication-date presale figure |
| Planned standard price | $1,149 | Planned price reported in the article, not a current guarantee |
| Amazon offer | $899 after a $230 coupon | Dated offer reported on September 7, 2026; coupon, stock and seller must be checked |
| Separate wash-and-cure station | $249 | Anycubic price reported at publication; sold separately and subject to change |
Your real setup budget also includes resin, disposable gloves, safety glasses, wash containers or a wash-and-cure station, UV-curing equipment, cleaning solvent, filters, paper towels and ventilation materials. The available data does not establish current prices for those consumables, so calculate them from the quantities and local prices you actually expect to use.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How does the Photon P1 MAX compare with the smaller Photon P1?
The Photon P1 is the review’s named alternative for buyers who do not need the MAX’s larger build area. The available source does not provide P1 measurements, resolution, vat capacity, prices or a controlled head-to-head test, so the comparison below is intentionally limited.
| Decision factor | Photon P1 MAX | Photon P1 |
|---|---|---|
| Usable build volume | 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm, reported by Tom’s Hardware | Smaller than the MAX; exact dimensions not stated in the cited review |
| Resolution and optics | 12K monochrome LCD, 24.8 µm X/Y, COB light with reflector and aspherical Fresnel lens | Not stated in the cited review |
| Vat heating and capacity | 35°C target and 1,900 ml capacity | Not stated in the cited review |
| Release and plate handling | Wave Release screen cover, slide-in vat and flip-up/flip-down plate lock described by the reviewer | Not stated in the cited review |
| Firmware observations | Early leveling-flow issue and touchy AI features reported on the tested unit | No comparative firmware observation supplied |
| Footprint and weight | 430 × 414 × 625 mm; 23.1 kg | Not stated in the cited review |
| Current price and availability | Dated figures above; verify the listing | Not stated in the cited review |
If you need the MAX’s full plate area, compare the complete cost of the printer and post-processing setup against the smaller P1 rather than comparing printer prices alone. If you rarely fill a large plate, a smaller machine can be easier to place and cheaper to supply, but the available evidence does not quantify that difference.
What are the P1 MAX’s strengths and weaknesses?
| Strengths | Limitations and risks |
|---|---|
| Large 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm build volume | Large 430 × 414 × 625 mm footprint and 23.1 kg weight |
| 12K monochrome LCD and reported 24.8 µm X/Y resolution | High resolution still requires calibrated exposure, supports and leveling |
| 35°C heated vat and 1,900 ml capacity | More resin in the vat means more material to handle in a spill or failed print |
| Wave Release cover, slide-in vat and substantial plate lock | Release-performance claims come from one reviewer’s tested unit |
| USB and Wi‑Fi transfer options | Early leveling-flow and AI-behavior caveats were reported |
| Photon Workshop included; Chitubox and Lychee support reported | Washing, drying and UV curing remain separate workflow steps |
| Arrives assembled with basic tools and test files | Wash-and-cure station is an additional purchase; rear vent has no supplied hose |
Who should buy the Anycubic Photon P1 MAX?
Buy it when:
- Your models regularly need more than a small desktop resin printer can fit, or you want to batch many parts in one job.
- You value a heated vat, large locking build plate and the Wave Release design enough to accept a bigger machine.
- You have a permanent, ventilated workspace and are prepared for solvent handling, PPE and UV curing.
- You can verify current firmware and are willing to calibrate resin and supports rather than relying on one default profile.
Look at the smaller Photon P1 instead when:
- Your normal prints are small and you would leave most of the MAX’s plate unused.
- You lack a stable surface or safe ventilation for a 625 mm-tall printer and its resin workflow.
- You want to minimize the amount of resin, solvent and post-processing space involved in each job.
What should you check before placing an order?
- Measure the complete installation area, including the height and access needed to load the vat and remove the plate.
- Confirm the seller’s current price, stock, coupon terms and return policy; the $1,103, $1,149 and $899 figures are all dated to September 7, 2026.
- Check the firmware version on the unit you will receive and read the current leveling instructions.
- Verify that your preferred slicer exports a compatible profile and that you can transfer files by USB or Wi‑Fi.
- Price resin, solvent, gloves, eye protection, wash containers and UV-curing equipment alongside the printer.
- Decide how you will ventilate the rear vent area, remembering that the review says a hose is not included.
- Plan legal disposal for resin-contaminated alcohol and other waste before your first print.
What is the final verdict on the Photon P1 MAX?
The Photon P1 MAX is a specialized large-format resin printer, not simply a bigger version of a small desktop model. Its 285.5 × 214 × 300 mm volume, 35°C vat, 1.9-liter capacity and Wave Release hardware directly address large parts and long production runs. The price and footprint are easier to justify when those capabilities replace multiple smaller prints or allow a part to be made in one piece.
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Its value drops if you do not need that area. You still have to level the plate, tune resin, add supports, wash, dry and cure every print, and provide PPE and ventilation. Because the published firmware observations and all listed prices are time-specific, verify the current software and listing before buying. On the evidence available, the P1 MAX is a strong fit for experienced resin users and capacity-driven projects, while the smaller Photon P1 remains the logical starting point for modest models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the P1 MAX’s published prices still valid?
Not necessarily. The $1,103 presale figure, $1,149 planned standard price and $899 Amazon offer after a $230 coupon were reported on September 7, 2026, so check the live listing and coupon terms before relying on any of them.
Has Anycubic confirmed that the early leveling problem is fixed?
The cited review reports the problem on its test unit and firmware, but it does not establish the status of later releases. Check the firmware version and current update notes for the specific machine you are buying.
Does the printer’s 35°C setting work with every resin?
The 35°C figure is the vat temperature reported for the printer, not a universal material profile. Follow the resin manufacturer’s temperature and exposure guidance and calibrate when the formulations differ.
What equipment is easy to overlook in a large resin setup?
Besides resin, budget for solvent, disposable gloves, eye protection, containers, drying space and UV-curing equipment. The rear vent opening does not include a hose according to the review, and contaminated isopropyl alcohol needs a disposal plan rather than a sink.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
