The Best Resin for Miniature and Figurine Printing

Understanding the Importance of Resin Choice for Miniatures

When it comes to 3D printing miniatures and figurines, the choice of resin can make or break your results. Having printed thousands of minis for both hobbyists and professionals, I can attest that the type of resin you use determines not only the visual quality but also the durability and paintability of your models. Let’s break down the top considerations and the best resins available for miniature and figurine printing.

Key Properties to Look for in Miniature Printing Resin

Before diving into specific brands, it’s essential to know what features matter most:

Detail Resolution: Miniatures demand high precision, so the resin must capture fine details.
Surface Finish: A smooth finish reduces post-processing work, leading to better-looking miniatures right off the printer.
Brittleness vs. Flexibility: Miniatures can have thin or fragile parts. Too brittle, and they snap easily; too soft, and they lose detail.
Ease of Painting: Some resins absorb paint better, making painting and finishing a joy.
Safety and Odor: Low-odor, non-toxic resins are better for desktop or home environments.

Top Resin Picks for Miniature and Figurine Printing

Based on hands-on experience and community feedback, here are the resins that consistently deliver the best results for mini enthusiasts:

1. Siraya Tech Fast ABS-Like Resin

Siraya Tech’s Fast ABS-Like Resin has become a staple among miniature printers. It offers:

Excellent detail retention, ideal for intricate figurines.
Balanced flexibility, reducing the risk of breakage during handling or transport.
Easy to clean and minimal warping, which is critical for multi-part models.

It’s also available in multiple colors and is relatively affordable, making it perfect for both batch printing and one-off showcase pieces.

2. Anycubic Plant-Based Resin

For those who prioritize safety and a greener printing process, Anycubic’s Plant-Based UV Resin is a fantastic option. Its features include:

Low odor and lower toxicity, making it great for home use.
Good surface finish and respectable detail capture.
Slightly softer than pure ABS-like resins, which can help with small, fragile parts.

It’s worth noting that this eco-friendly resin is somewhat more flexible, so it’s best for tabletop gaming pieces that might be handled frequently.

3. Phrozen Aqua 4K Resin

If you’re aiming for jaw-dropping detail, especially with printers like the Phrozen Sonic Mini 4K or 8K, the Phrozen Aqua 4K Resin is a top contender:

Unparalleled detail resolution – perfect for showpieces or master models.
Consistent curing, which helps avoid layer lines and deformations.
Good balance between detail sharpness and strength.

This resin is a bit pricier, but for professional painters and collectors, the results are worth the investment.

4. Elegoo ABS-Like Resin

Elegoo’s ABS-Like formula strikes a solid middle ground:

Strong and impact-resistant, ideal for gaming miniatures that see regular use.
Maintains sharp features while being less brittle than standard resins.
Compatible with a wide range of desktop MSLA printers.

It’s particularly favored for wargaming armies and miniatures destined for the tabletop.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results with Resin Miniatures

Post-Processing Matters: Thoroughly clean prints with isopropyl alcohol, and ensure complete UV curing to achieve maximum strength and surface quality.
Adjust Your Supports: Use fine supports to avoid blemishes on detailed areas. Many resin slicers offer customizable support settings tailored for miniatures.
Optimize Layer Height: For the best results, print at 0.025–0.05mm layer heights, depending on your printer’s capabilities and the resin’s curing profile.
Consider Priming Before Painting: Although most high-quality resins bond well with acrylics, a primer helps achieve an even, vibrant paint finish.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Resin for Your Miniatures

Selecting the right resin is a blend of understanding your printer, your intended use, and your post-processing workflow. While Siraya Tech Fast ABS-Like and Phrozen Aqua 4K excel in detail and finish, eco-friendly options like Anycubic Plant-Based offer peace of mind for the home hobbyist. No matter your choice, investing in quality resin will elevate your miniature prints, making every detail pop and every gaming session more immersive.

Ready to print your next masterpiece? Start with the right resin, and watch your miniatures come to life!