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Anycubic Photon P1 Max vs Photon P1 - Key Differences

March 4, 2026 by
Vertex 3D, Vertex 3D

Anycubic Photon P1 Max vs Photon P1 


Introduction 

The Photon P1 Max and Photon P1 are both modern MSLA resin 3D printers built for high detail printing. They have similar core technology, but they are designed for different levels of production and workspace needs.


Here’s a clear technical comparison.

Specification Photon P1 Max Photon P1
Printing Precision 14" 12K 10.1" 14K
Printing Size 285.5 × 214 × 300mm³ 223 × 126 × 230mm³
Build Volume 18.3L 6.5L
XY Precision 24.8μm × 24.8μm 16.8μm × 24.8μm
Light Source COB + Fresnel + Mask COB + Fresnel + Mask
Leveling Auto-Leveling 3.0 (with feedback) Auto-Leveling 3.0 (with feedback)
Z-Axis Drive C7-grade ball screws C7-grade ball screws
Resin Vat Capacity 1900ml 1000ml
Remote Control APP + Camera Monitoring APP + Camera Monitoring
Build Volume

The biggest difference is build volume. 

Photon P1 Max comes with a large format build area. This allows you to:

  • Print bigger models in one piece
  • Run batch production efficiently
  • Increase output for commercial use


Photon P1 offers a smaller build volume. It is suitable for:

  • Miniatures
  • Jewelry casting patterns
  • Dental models
  • Functional prototypes

If your focus is production capacity and larger parts, P1 Max gives you more flexibility. For standard professional or hobby use, the P1 is enough 


LCD & Resolution

Both printers use a high resolution monochrome LCD panel with MSLA technology.

This means:

  • Strong XY accuracy
  • Sharp edge definition
  • Smooth surface finish
  • Better UV transmission compared to RGB screens

The difference is not in print quality, but in printable area size. Both machines are capable of producing fine details consistently.


Light Source & Mechanical Stability

Both models use a COB light source system combined with optical elements for uniform UV distribution.

This results in:

  • Even curing across the build plate
  • Reduced light bleed
  • Better dimensional accuracy

They also feature a reinforced Z-axis system, which improves vertical stability and reduces layer shifting.


Which One Is More Suitable?

Choose Photon P1 Max if:

You run a print service

  • You need higher output
  • You frequently print large models
  • Choose Photon P1 if:
  • You focus on detailed small to medium parts
  • You want a compact resin printer
  • You do not require large batch printing


Conclusion 

Technically, both machines are built on the same foundation  MSLA system, monochrome LCD, COB light source, and stable Z axis mechanics.

The key difference is scale and productivity.

Photon P1 Max is designed for higher output and larger builds, while Photon P1 is a balanced option for detailed and regular resin printing work.