The Best 3D Printing Resins for Miniatures and Models

Introduction

3D printing miniatures and models is an art as much as it is a technical process. Whether you’re a hobbyist printing fantasy miniatures for tabletop gaming, or a professional creating prototypes and display pieces, the choice of resin can make or break your results. Over years of printing thousands of miniatures, I’ve gained firsthand experience with a wide variety of resins and learned which types excel in detail, durability, and finish. In this article, I’ll share the best 3D printing resins for miniatures and models, with an emphasis on what makes each resin stand out.

What Makes a Good Resin for Miniatures?

Not all 3D printing resins are created equal—especially when it comes to miniature printing. Here are the key qualities I look for:

High Resolution & Detail: Miniatures often feature intricate details, so the resin must allow for sharp prints without loss of features.
Low Brittleness: Miniatures are handled frequently; brittle resins will easily snap.
Easy to Paint: A good miniature resin should have a smooth surface and be receptive to primers and paints.
Good Curing: Even curing helps prevent warping or tackiness, ensuring the model is solid and long-lasting.
Color Options: Some resins come in a variety of colors or translucency, useful for different effects.

Top 3D Printing Resins for Miniatures and Models

1. Siraya Tech Fast Grey (and Fast Series)

Siraya Tech’s “Fast” line is a gold standard for miniature printing. The Fast Grey resin, in particular, balances fine detail capture with impressive toughness. It’s less brittle than standard resins and cures reliably, reducing the risk of warping or missed detail on thin parts like swords or fingers. It also sands and paints beautifully, making it a top pick for hobbyists wanting the best print-to-paint experience.

2. Elegoo Standard Photopolymer Resin

Elegoo’s standard resin is widely available and budget-friendly, but don’t let its popularity fool you—this resin delivers excellent detail and a smooth surface finish. It’s a bit more brittle than some “tough” resins, but for static display models or well-supported miniatures, it’s a fantastic choice. Their grey and ABS-like variants are especially loved for their painter-friendly surfaces.

3. Anycubic Craftsman Resin

Anycubic’s Craftsman resin is formulated specifically for high-detail printing. It results in extremely crisp details and minimal layer lines, making it ideal for smaller scale miniatures like 28mm figures. It’s also less odorous than many competitors, a bonus for home printing setups.

4. Phrozen Aqua 4K Resin

Phrozen Aqua 4K resin is tailored for high-resolution printers, producing prints with astonishing sharpness. It cures hard, but isn’t overly brittle, making it suitable for detailed miniatures that will see some handling. This resin is favored by those using Phrozen’s Sonic Mini 4K and similar high-res machines.

5. AmeraLabs TGM-7 (Tough Grey Miniature)

AmeraLabs TGM-7 is specifically engineered for miniature printing. It offers an incredible balance of fine detail, stability, and toughness, reducing the risk of breakage. It’s a bit pricier, but if you want the absolute best for gaming miniatures, it’s worth the investment.

Honorable Mentions

Monocure Rapid Resin: Known for its reliable prints and easy post-processing, especially in Australia and the UK.
eSUN Water Washable Resin: Easier cleanup with water, but generally more brittle than other options.
Elegoo ABS-Like Resin: Offers improved toughness for more durable miniatures.

Tips for Printing Resin Miniatures

Always print at the lowest practical layer height (0.02-0.05mm) for maximum detail.
Use supports liberally—especially for thin parts like swords, spears, and outstretched limbs.
After printing, ensure a thorough wash in isopropyl alcohol and a full UV cure to toughen the resin.
Prime your miniatures before painting to ensure the best paint adhesion.
If durability is critical (e.g., for gaming miniatures), consider mixing a little flexible or tough resin into your standard resin.

Conclusion

The world of 3D printing resins is expanding rapidly, but tried-and-true brands like Siraya Tech, Elegoo, Phrozen, and AmeraLabs consistently deliver stunning results for miniatures and models. Your choice of resin depends on your specific needs—detail level, durability, ease of use, and even budget. With the right resin, your next batch of miniatures will not only look fantastic but also stand up to painting, handling, and play. Happy printing!