LCD vs DLP 3d Printer Accessories: Which Should You Buy?
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When choosing between LCD and DLP 3d printer accessory options, you are looking at different support systems for resin printing. Both products are made by ELEGOO and designed to enhance your printing experience. One is a metal resin tank for the Saturn 3 Ultra. The other is a Marsmate air purifier. They serve distinct roles. One improves print stability. The other manages air quality. You need to decide which function matters more for your setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank | ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier |
|---|---|---|
| Printing Technology | LCD | DLP |
| Product Type | Resin Tank | Air Purifier |
| Primary Material | Aluminum | ABS |
| Dimensions | 14.4 x 8.15 x 2.44 inches | 16.1 x 7.87 x 7.87 inches |
| Key Features | ACF release film, aluminum base | VOC sensor, activated carbon filter |
Which one should you choose?
Choose ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank if
- You need a durable replacement tank for your Saturn 3 Ultra LCD printer.
- You want a stable, level base that keeps the release film off your workbench.
- You prefer a simple mechanical part made of sturdy aluminum.
Choose ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier if
- You want to reduce TVOC smells and improve air quality while printing.
- You need a quiet device that operates at just 35dB.
- You want a smart reminder system for filter replacement.
Verdict: Choose the resin tank if your priority is maintaining the physical printing surface for your LCD machine. Select the air purifier if you want to manage fumes and VOC levels in your workspace. They solve different problems, so pick the one that addresses your current need.
LCD Tank vs DLP Air Purifier
Primary Function
The ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank is a direct component for your LCD printer. It holds the liquid resin and provides the base for the build plate. This metal tank ensures stability during the layer-by-layer curing process. In contrast, the ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier is an external environmental device. It connects to the printer’s extension port to clean the air. It does not hold resin or support the build. Instead, it removes volatile organic compounds from your workspace. You need the tank to print. You need the purifier to breathe safely while printing.
Material and Build
The resin tank is constructed from aluminum. This metal provides a sturdy and durable base for your printing needs. The design includes neat screws to fix it in place, ensuring it remains stable and level. It also has feet on the bottom to keep the release film off your workbench. The air purifier uses an engineering plastic ABS body. This material is durable and comes in white. The purifier is larger, measuring 7.87 inches in width and length, with a height of 16.1 inches. It weighs 14 pounds. The tank is smaller, at 8.15 inches wide and 14.4 inches long. Metal offers better rigidity for holding resin. Plastic is sufficient for housing electronics and filters.
Key Features
The resin tank comes with an ACF release liner film pre-installed. This film is essential for the LCD printing process, allowing the cured layer to peel away easily. The tank is designed for easy assembly, requiring only three Allen wrenches for installation. The air purifier includes a VOC sensor inside. This sensor monitors the concentration of volatile organic compounds and provides an early alert when it is time to replace the filter. It also has a filter reset button. The purifier features a unique duct design that switches between low and high fan speeds. It operates at an ultra-low power of 6W and produces only 35dB of noise. The tank has no electronic features. The purifier adds smart monitoring and quiet operation.
Compatibility
The aluminum resin tank is designed specifically for the ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra LCD 3D printer. It is not compatible with other models unless they use the exact same tank dimensions and mounting pattern. The air purifier has wide application across many ELEGOO machines. It is compatible with the Mars 4 DLP, Mars 4 MAX, Saturn 2, Saturn 8K, Jupiter, Saturn 3, Saturn 3 Ultra, Saturn 4, Saturn 4 Ultra, and Jupiter SE. This versatility makes it a better choice if you have multiple printers or plan to upgrade your machine. The tank is limited to one specific printer model. The purifier works with a broad range of devices.
Maintenance
Maintaining the resin tank involves checking the screws and ensuring the ACF film is intact. You may need to replace the film periodically, but the tank itself is durable metal. The air purifier requires regular filter replacement. The built-in activated carbon filter can last up to two months. You replace it by removing the upper cover and installing a new filter. The VOC sensor reminds you when to do this. The purifier has a filter reset button to acknowledge the change. The tank has no consumable parts other than the film. The purifier has ongoing costs for filters. The sensor simplifies maintenance for the purifier.
Which ELEGOO Accessory Fits You
You own a Saturn 3 Ultra LCD printer
This aluminum resin tank is the original component for your Saturn 3 Ultra. It features a pre-installed ACF release liner film. The sturdy metal base ensures stability during printing. Its dimensions are 14.4 by 8.15 by 2.44 inches. You can assemble it easily with three Allen wrenches. The feet keep the liner film off your workbench.
You need to reduce resin fumes in your workspace
The Marsmate air purifier removes up to 95% of TVOCs. It uses a VOC sensor to monitor air quality and alerts you when to replace the filter. The activated carbon filter lasts up to two months. It operates quietly at 35dB with only 6W of power. The white ABS body measures 16.1 by 7.87 by 7.87 inches and weighs 14 pounds.
You print with Saturn 3 or Saturn 2 models
This accessory is compatible with Saturn 2, Saturn 3, and Saturn 3 Ultra printers. It connects via the extension port to purify the air around your machine. The large size allows for efficient purification over a longer period. You can reset the filter reminder button easily. The duct design switches between low and high fan speeds automatically.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank | Saturn 3 Ultra owners needing a durable metal tank | Check price of ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank on Amazon |
| 2 | ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier | Resin printing air quality management | Check price of ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier on Amazon |
The products compared
ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank
Best for: Saturn 3 Ultra owners needing a durable metal tank
- Printing Technology
- LCD (what this guide is about)
- Primary Material
- aluminum
- Release Film Type
- ACF
- Dimensions
- 14.4 × 8.15 × 2.44 inches
View on Amazon: ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank Affiliate link
This ELEGOO resin tank is built for the Saturn 3 Ultra LCD 3D printer. It features an aluminum construction that provides a sturdy base for your printing needs. The tank includes a pre-installed ACF release liner film, which helps with print release. Its dimensions are 14.4 inches long, 8.15 inches wide, and 2.44 inches high. It sits on feet to keep the film off your workbench. This accessory is designed for users who want a durable, stable printing surface.
Pros
- Made of aluminum for sturdy durability
- Pre-installed ACF release liner film
- Equipped with feet to keep film off workbench
- Features neat screws for stable, level printing
Cons
- Specific to Saturn 3 Ultra model only
- Requires Allen wrenches for assembly
- Larger size may not fit smaller setups
Good fit if
- You own an ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra printer
- You prefer metal tanks for durability
- You want a pre-installed release film
Skip if
- You use a different printer model
- You need a smaller footprint
- You prefer plastic tanks
Verdict: ELEGOO Metal Resin Tank for Saturn 3 Ultra is a solid upgrade for Saturn 3 Ultra owners who value stability. It fits users who need a durable, metal tank with a ready-to-use film.
ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier
Best for: Resin printing air quality management
- Printing Technology
- DLP (what this guide is about)
- Primary Material
- ABS
- Dimensions
- 210x247x410mm
- Color
- White
- Resolution
- 8K
- Weight
- 14 pounds
View on Amazon: ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier Affiliate link
This ELEGOO air purifier removes up to 95% of TVOCs to keep your resin printing space safe. It operates at just 6W and stays quiet at 35dB. The built-in VOC sensor alerts you when to replace the filter. It fits most resin printers with an extension port. The ABS body is durable. It suits users who want reliable air quality management for their DLP or LCD resin prints.
Pros
- Removes up to 95% TVOCs
- Ultra-quiet 35dB operation
- Low 6W power consumption
- Built-in VOC sensor for filter alerts
Cons
- Large footprint at 210x247x410mm
- Heavy at 14 pounds
- Filter replacement needed every 2 months
Good fit if
- You print resin frequently and need odor control
- You have a printer with an extension port
- You value quiet operation during long prints
Skip if
- You need a compact desktop unit
- You use FDM printing only
- You want a portable lightweight device
Verdict: ELEGOO MARSMATE Air Purifier effectively manages resin fumes with a quiet, low-power design. It is ideal for resin users who prioritize air quality and have space for a larger unit.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ELEGOO Saturn 3 Ultra Aluminum Resin Tank | ELEGOO Marsmate Resin Air Purifier |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Material | aluminum | ABS |
| Dimensions | not stated | 210x247x410mm |
| Release Film Type | ACF | not stated |
| Printing Technology | LCD | DLP |
| Color | not stated | White |
| Resolution | not stated | 8K |
| Weight | not stated | 14 pounds |
| Size | M-for Saturn 3 Ultra | Marsmate |
| Model | not stated | US-EL-3D-CP1 |
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the ELEGOO Marsmate air purifier with my LCD printer?
Yes, you can use the Marsmate with an LCD printer. The device is designed to manage resin fumes effectively. It features a quiet, low-power design that reduces noise in your workspace. This makes it suitable for users who prioritize air quality regardless of whether they use LCD or DLP technology. Its compact size allows it to fit easily near your printer.
Does the Saturn 3 Ultra tank fit other ELEGOO models?
No, this aluminum resin tank is specific to the Saturn 3 Ultra. It is designed as a direct component for that specific LCD printer model. The dimensions and mounting points match only the Saturn 3 Ultra. Using it with other models may result in compatibility issues. You should verify your printer model before purchasing this metal tank to ensure a proper fit.
What are the dimensions of the Marsmate air purifier?
The Marsmate air purifier measures 7.87 inches in width, 16.1 inches in height, and 7.87 inches in length. It weighs 14 pounds. These dimensions indicate a larger unit that requires adequate space in your printing area. The white color helps it blend into most workspaces. You should measure your desk to ensure it fits comfortably alongside your printer.
Is the Saturn 3 Ultra tank made of plastic or metal?
The Saturn 3 Ultra tank is made of aluminum metal. This material provides greater durability and stability compared to standard plastic tanks. It helps maintain a consistent environment for resin curing. The metal construction also resists warping over time. This makes it a solid upgrade for owners who need a robust tank for their LCD printing setup.
How does the Marsmate handle resin fumes?
The Marsmate air purifier effectively manages resin fumes to improve air quality. It uses a quiet, low-power design to operate without excessive noise. This is ideal for users who print frequently in enclosed spaces. The unit helps remove harmful vapors generated during the resin curing process. You can place it near your printer to maintain a healthier working environment.
Does the Saturn 3 Ultra tank come with a new film?
Yes, the tank comes with a ready-to-use ACF release liner film. This pre-installed film ensures you can start printing immediately. The film provides a smooth surface for resin to cure against. It is designed to work specifically with the Saturn 3 Ultra printer. This feature saves you time and ensures optimal print quality from the first layer.
Can I use the Marsmate if I do not own an ELEGOO printer?
The Marsmate is designed by ELEGOO but can likely be used with any resin printer. Its primary function is air purification for resin fumes. This benefit applies to all resin printing technologies, including DLP and LCD. However, you should check the power requirements and plug type. The unit is not printer-specific, so it offers flexibility for various setups.