ELEGOO Saturn 3 12K MSLA Resin 3D Printer: features, specs and who it suits

The ELEGOO Saturn 3 is a resin 3D printer using MSLA (masked stereolithography). It shines UV light through a 10-inch monochrome LCD to cure liquid resin one layer at a time, and the 12K screen is meant for finely detailed models such as miniatures and figures.

How MSLA printing works

In MSLA, the LCD acts as a mask. Only the pixels that are clear let UV light through, so a whole layer cures at once. This is why layer time depends little on how many objects are on the plate. ELEGOO lists a 405nm COB light source, which is the common wavelength for standard resins.

What 12K means

The screen is 11520 x 5120 pixels, giving an XY resolution of 19 x 24μm. Smaller pixels typically produce sharper edges and smoother curves on small features. Z-axis accuracy is listed as 0.02mm, with layer thickness from 0.01 to 0.2mm. ELEGOO also fits a 9H hardness tempered film to the screen to improve its service life. Maximum printing speed is rated at 70mm/h.

Light source and uniformity

The printer pairs a COB UV light with a Fresnel collimating lens. ELEGOO says this gives light uniformity above 92%, which helps a model print the same wherever it sits on the plate. A dedicated heat dissipation system is meant to prolong the life of the printer.

Build volume and Z-axis

The build volume is 218.88 x 122.88 x 250mm. A dual linear guideway on the Z-axis is described as quieter and more stable, and a laser-carved platform is meant to improve adhesion and print success. The printer weighs 11kg (24.3 lb) and runs on 100-240V, 24V/6A power.

Software

It comes with Voxeldance Tango slicing software, which has three printing modes: static, dynamic and high-speed. The listing also names Chitu Box as a compatible slicer. ELEGOO develops the open-source GOO slice format, which it says is compatible with a range of slicing software.

Who it suits

It suits hobbyists and small workshops that want detailed small prints and a wide plate. Resin printing involves washing and curing steps, so it suits people ready for that workflow.

What to check before you buy

• Space: the listing gives 26.0 x 16.1 x 15.0 inches in the package, and 305.9 x 273 x 567.3mm for the printer.
• Environment: ELEGOO advises using it indoors in a dry place, away from direct sunlight and dust.
• Resin handling: the brand says to wear a mask and gloves and to keep the printer away from children. Read the manual for the full list.
• Consumables: the release film in the resin tank eventually needs replacing, for example if it whitens or is scratched.
• Washing: use 95% or higher ethyl or isopropyl alcohol unless you choose a water-washable resin.
• Resin level: keep the tank between one-third full and the MAX line.

The short version

• 10-inch 12K monochrome LCD (11520 x 5120) with 19 x 24μm XY resolution.
• COB 405nm light with Fresnel collimating lens, over 92% uniformity per ELEGOO.
• 218.88 x 122.88 x 250mm build volume, dual linear guideway Z-axis.
• Up to 70mm/h, with Voxeldance Tango software and GOO format support.
• Weighs 24.3 lb; follow the manual's handling and cleaning advice.

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