ANYCUBIC vs NOVA3D: 3D Printer Resins Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
In this ANYCUBIC vs NOVA3D 3d printer resin comparison, you get two distinct options for 405nm SLA, LCD, and DLP printing. Both brands offer grey resin that cures quickly and adheres to standard photopolymer workflows. The main difference lies in their formulation and post-processing needs. ANYCUBIC provides a standard general-purpose resin focused on precision and stability. NOVA3D offers a tough, ABS-like material that is water-washable, changing how you clean prints.
Key differences
| Aspect | ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin | NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin 1kg |
|---|---|---|
| Resin Type | Standard | Water Washable ABS-Like Tough |
| Cleaning Method | not listed | Water |
| Size | 500g | 1kg |
| Curing Wavelength | 405nm | 405nm |
| Compatible Technology | SLA, LCD, DLP | LCD, DLP, SLA |
Which one should you choose?
Choose ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin if
- You want a standard resin for general precision prints
- You prefer a smaller 500g package for testing
- You need high rigidity and smooth surface details
Choose NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin 1kg if
- You want to wash prints with water instead of IPA
- You need higher toughness and impact resistance for miniatures
- You prefer a larger 1kg container for longer projects
Verdict: Choose ANYCUBIC if you need a reliable standard resin for high-precision, rigid models. Pick NOVA3D if you prioritize durability and want to simplify post-processing with water washing. Both work with your 405nm printer, so the choice depends on your desired finish and cleaning preference.
ANYCUBIC vs NOVA3D Resin Specs
Resin Type
ANYCUBIC offers a standard UV-curing resin designed for general-purpose printing. This formulation prioritizes a balance of rigidity and toughness, ensuring models have good stability in various environments. NOVA3D provides a specialized ABS-like tough resin that is water-washable. This specific type focuses on high impact resistance and flexibility, making it ideal for detailed miniatures and tabletop game pieces with thin parts. The NOVA3D option targets users needing durable, flexible prints, while ANYCUBIC serves those requiring standard, precise outputs.
Post-Processing
Post-processing differs significantly between these two options. ANYCUBIC resin requires standard cleaning procedures, though the product data does not specify the exact solvent needed, implying traditional IPA or similar cleaners are used. NOVA3D stands out by being water-washable. You can rinse the printed model with water instead of using isopropyl alcohol, which simplifies cleanup and reduces costs. NOVA3D also recommends immediate post-curing for 30–60 seconds to maximize flexibility. This water-based cleaning method makes NOVA3D more convenient and environmentally friendly for everyday users.
Packaging Size
The available packaging sizes vary between the two brands. ANYCUBIC provides this specific grey resin in a 500g net weight container, with options extending up to 4kg in other variations. The product data for this specific item lists the net weight as 500g. NOVA3D offers this ABS-like tough resin in a 1kg net weight container. While ANYCUBIC has a broader range of sizes, the NOVA3D option provides double the material in its base unit compared to the specific ANYCUBIC item listed. This makes NOVA3D a better value for volume.
Print Quality
Both resins aim for high precision and detail. ANYCUBIC highlights low shrinkage during photocuring to ensure high precision and smooth surfaces. It also emphasizes excellent fluidity for quick curing and accurate printing details. NOVA3D focuses on high precision with a matte finish that reduces the typical plastic look, giving a premium feel. It claims a high success rate of over 95% once parameters are mastered. Both products support 405nm curing wavelengths for SLA, LCD, and DLP technologies, ensuring compatibility with most resin printers.
Material Properties
The mechanical properties of the cured resin differ based on the formulation. ANYCUBIC resin combines hardness and toughness for easy removal and stable models. It is designed to withstand moist and corrosive environments after curing. NOVA3D resin is engineered for toughness and impact resistance, preventing breaks when dropped. It maintains flexibility and strength, which is crucial for thin parts like swords or knives in miniatures. ANYCUBIC is better for rigid, stable prints, while NOVA3D is superior for durable, flexible, and impact-resistant models.
Choose the Right Resin for Your Needs
You need easy cleanup without solvents
NOVA3D resin is water-washable, allowing you to rinse prints with water instead of IPA. This simplifies post-processing and reduces chemical handling. The ABS-like tough formula provides excellent impact resistance, making it ideal for miniatures and tabletop models with thin, fragile parts that require durability.
You want high precision and smooth surfaces
ANYCUBIC standard resin features low shrinkage during photocuring, ensuring high precision and smooth surface finishes. Its extraordinary fluidity supports quick curing while maintaining good stability in moist environments. This combination of rigidity and toughness delivers accurate details, making it a reliable choice for general-purpose SLA and LCD printing.
You prioritize dimensional accuracy and low odor
NOVA3D uses a low-viscosity formula that minimizes curing shrinkage, ensuring strict dimensional accuracy. The resin produces minimal odor during printing, creating a more comfortable workspace. Its high success rate of over 95% and matte finish reduce the plastic look, offering a premium feel for intricate small-scale models.
The products compared
ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin
Best for: standard grey prototyping on 405nm printers
- Resin Type
- Standard
- Curing Wavelength
- 405nm
- Compatible Technology
- SLA, LCD, DLP
- Net Weight
- 500g
- Printing Technology
- Resin
- Features
- High Precision, Fast Curing
View on Amazon: ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin Affiliate link
This is ANYCUBIC standard UV-curing resin designed for 405nm SLA, LCD, and DLP printers. It cures quickly with high fluidity, ensuring smooth surfaces and low shrinkage. The grey formula offers a balance of rigidity and toughness for accurate details. You get 500g of material suitable for general prototyping. It is compatible with most resin printers, making it a versatile option for standard printing tasks.
Pros
- Compatible with SLA, LCD, and DLP technologies
- Cures at 405nm wavelength
- Low shrinkage for high precision
- Good fluidity for quick curing
Cons
- Standard resin lacks specialized toughness
- 500g size is smaller than bulk options
- Requires full shaking before use
Good fit if
- You need standard grey resin for general models
- You use 405nm SLA or LCD printers
- You want a versatile resin for prototyping
Skip if
- You require water-washable materials
- You need high-toughness ABS-like properties
- You prefer larger 1kg or 2kg volumes
Verdict: ANYCUBIC Standard Resin 500g Grey is a reliable choice for users needing standard grey prints with high precision. It suits those who prioritize smooth surfaces and quick curing over specialized mechanical strength.
NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin 1kg
Best for: Water-washable tough prints for miniatures
- Resin Type
- Water Washable ABS-Like Tough
- Curing Wavelength
- 405nm
- Compatible Technology
- LCD, DLP, SLA
- Net Weight
- 1kg
- Cleaning Method
- Water
- Application
- Miniatures, tabletop game models
View on Amazon: NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin 1kg Affiliate link
This NOVA3D photopolymer resin is designed for 405nm LCD, DLP, and SLA printers. It offers an ABS-like tough finish with high impact resistance, making it suitable for miniatures and tabletop models with thin parts. The water-washable formula simplifies post-processing by eliminating the need for IPA. With a low-viscosity formula, it ensures dimensional accuracy and a matte surface finish. The 1kg package provides a practical amount for regular printing tasks.
Pros
- Water-washable cleaning method removes need for IPA
- ABS-like tough material resists breakage on thin parts
- Compatible with LCD, DLP, and SLA technologies
- 405nm curing wavelength matches standard UV printers
Cons
- Matte finish may not suit users preferring glossy surfaces
- Requires immediate post-curing for 30–60 seconds for best results
- Limited to 1kg net weight in this specific listing
Good fit if
- You print miniatures or tabletop game models with thin details
- You want to avoid using IPA for cleaning prints
- You need a tough resin that resists impact
Skip if
- You require a glossy finish instead of a matte one
- You prefer resins that do not need immediate post-curing
- You need a larger volume than 1kg in a single unit
Verdict: NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Resin 1kg is a practical choice for makers who print detailed miniatures and want to simplify cleanup by washing with water. It fits users who prioritize durability and matte aesthetics over high-gloss surfaces.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin | NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin 1kg |
|---|---|---|
| Resin Type | Standard | Water Washable ABS-Like Tough |
| Curing Wavelength | 405nm | 405nm |
| Compatible Technology | SLA, LCD, DLP | LCD, DLP, SLA |
| Net Weight | 500g | 1kg |
| Cleaning Method | not stated | Water |
| Application | not stated | Miniatures, tabletop game models |
| Printing Technology | Resin | Resin |
| Compatible Material | not stated | ABS |
| Features | High Precision, Fast Curing | Low Odor, Fast Curing |
| Color | Grey | Grey1kg |
| Size | 500g | 1KG |
| Resolution | not stated | 12K, 14K |
| Weight | 1.1 pounds | 2.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 3.94 × 3.94 × 7 inches |
| Model | POT016 | 2002-015-0002-3-USFBA |
Frequently asked questions
Which resin is best for standard prototyping?
ANYCUBIC 500g Grey 405nm UV Resin is the top choice for standard grey prototyping on 405nm printers. It is designed for users who prioritize smooth surfaces and quick curing times over specialized mechanical strength. This makes it a reliable option for general-purpose models where high precision is key.
Can I wash NOVA3D resin with water?
Yes, the NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin allows you to rinse prints with water instead of isopropyl alcohol. This feature simplifies cleanup and reduces the need for harsh chemicals. It is a practical choice for makers who want to streamline their post-processing workflow while maintaining durability.
What is the difference in resin type between the two?
ANYCUBIC offers a standard UV-curing resin focused on rigidity and toughness for general use. In contrast, NOVA3D provides a specialized ABS-like tough resin that is water-washable. While both cure at 405nm, the NOVA3D formula emphasizes impact resistance and a matte aesthetic suitable for detailed miniatures.
Which option is better for printing miniatures?
NOVA3D Water Washable ABS-Like Tough Resin is better suited for detailed miniatures. Its tough formula provides excellent impact resistance, and the water-washable nature simplifies cleanup for intricate parts. You get durability and a matte finish, which often looks better for small, detailed figures than high-gloss surfaces.
How much resin do you get in each bottle?
The ANYCUBIC option comes in a 500g size, weighing 1.1 pounds total. The NOVA3D variant offers a larger 1kg quantity, with a total weight of 2.2 pounds. You should consider these volumes when planning your print jobs, as the NOVA3D bottle provides double the material mass.
Are both resins compatible with 405nm printers?
Yes, both resins are formulated for 405nm curing wavelengths. This ensures compatibility with standard SLA, LCD, and DLP 3D printers. You can use either product in your existing workflow without needing to adjust the curing settings, as they adhere to standard photopolymer processes.