Unleash your inner toy designer: choose the best 3D printer for your action figures
The excitement of bringing your own characters, superheroes or complex collectibles to life is no longer limited to big manufacturers. 3D printing has revolutionized action figure creation, empowering hobbyists, independent designers, and even professional prototypers. But among the many printers out there, which ones are really good at printing high-quality, detailed graphics? Whether you’re making articulated heroes, miniature monsters, or custom collectibles, the right printer is crucial. Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders.
Why Details Matter: Resin and FDM Action Figures
Action figures require exceptional resolution to capture facial expressions, complex armor textures, tiny accessories and smooth joints. This makes Resin printer (SLA/DLP/LCD) The undisputed champion of most action figure projects. They use light-cured liquid resin to create layers as thin as 0.01mm, achieving stunning details invisible to most FDM printers. While FDM (fused deposition modeling) printers are great for large props, prototypes, or role-play elements, they have difficulty processing the fine details and smooth surfaces necessary for display-worthy figures.
Here are the details on the best 3D printers specifically designed for making puppets:
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Elegoo Saturn series (e.g. Saturn 3 Ultra): champion of detailed dynamics
- technology: MSLA (resin)
- Why it’s perfect for action figures: The Saturn range has always offered excellent value for money. Models like the Saturn 3 Ultra have High resolution 12K monochrome screen (3840×2400 pixels) capable of reproducing minute details such as chainmail links, facial sculpts, and tiny weapon grips with incredible fidelity.
- Build volume: supply Large build volume (Example Saturn 3: 196x122x210mm). This is ideal for printing multiple 6-inch figures, larger characters, or large diorama bases at the same time.
- advantage:
- Excellent detail resolution at an affordable price.
- Large build volume maximizes productivity.
- Printing speed is fast thanks to the monochrome LCD and powerful light source.
- Relatively user-friendly features (auto-leveling, built-in air filter on higher models).
- shortcoming: Standard resin printing requirements apply (liquid resin handling, thorough cleaning/curing, ventilation required). Careful optimization of support settings for complex graphics is required.
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Formlabs Form 3/3+: Precision Professionals
- technology: Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) Resins
- Why it’s perfect for action figures: For professionals and serious creators who prioritize absolute precision, reliability, and ease of use. LFS technology minimizes peel forces, resulting in an extremely smooth surface with minimal layer lines – ideal for finishing. In addition to standard resins, a wide range of engineering and dental resins are available.
- advantage:
- Unparalleled surface smoothness and isotropic part strength.
- Highly automated workflow (automated resin handling and resin cartridge systems, integrated cloud software).
- A variety of specialized resins that mimic different materials.
- Exceptional reliability and long-term support.
- shortcoming:
- The initial investment is significantly higher than a hobby printer.
- Cost per liter of resin increases significantly.
- Smaller build volume compared to large format hobby MSLA.
- Proprietary system with ongoing material/material cost commitment.
- Best for: Professionals making master molds, studio prototypes, licensed collector prototypes or hobbyists who prioritize perfect finish over cost.
- Anycubic Photon Mono Series (e.g. Photon Mono M5s): Speed Demon
- technology: MSLA (resin)
- Why it’s perfect for action figures: Focus on blazing speed "super root mean square" Fast axis motion system. Printing speeds are significantly faster than many competitors, while maintaining very good detail (the M5s, for example, has a 12K screen resolution). The perfect balance of speed, detail (for its speed class) and economy.
- Build volume: Available in large sizes (e.g. M5s: 219.2×122.8×250 mm), perfect for
