ELEGOO Mars 4 Ultra 9K MSLA 3D Printer Review: A Leap Forward or Just a Small Step?

The ELEGOO Mars series has been a favorite among hobbyists and professionals alike, paving the way for affordable yet high-quality resin printing. The latest addition to this lineage, the Mars 4 Ultra 9K, is a bold stride towards refining what a consumer-grade 3D printer can accomplish. With several models in the Mars 4 range - the Max 6k, the DLP, and the 9K/Ultra 9K - it's the Ultra 9K that stands as the direct progression from the praised Mars 3 Pro​.

While the megapixel wars in the camera domain have left many unimpressed, the leap in resolution in the 3D printing arena, as seen in the Mars 4 Ultra 9K, promises tangible benefits. Unlike a marginal bump from 4k to 6k, the Ultra 9K redefines detail with its remarkable XY resolution shift, heralding a new standard for precision in the ELEGOO Mars lineage​.

Stepping out of the box, the Mars 4 Ultra 9K presents a sleek, modern design that mirrors its advanced capabilities. The shift to a metal base from the previous plastic incarnations not only augments its aesthetic appeal but hints at a more robust and durable build. Though the transition from a red UV cover to a grey one might seem superficial, it complements the printer's overall sleek design​.

The 4-screw leveling method is a welcome change, doing away with the previous ball joint mechanism. This new leveling approach is not just a trivial design tweak; it's a thoughtful amendment enhancing the printer's stability and ease of use. Despite these alterations, the essence of user-centric design that was the hallmark of previous models remains intact. The Mars 4 Ultra 9K upholds the legacy of being a user-friendly, reliable machine ready to deliver right out of the box.

The spotlight feature of the Mars 4 Ultra 9K is undoubtedly its 9K Mono LCD, boasting a resolution of 8520x4320, which translates to an 18μm XY resolution. This is not just a numbers game; the impact of this heightened resolution is profound when it comes to the finesse and detail of the printed models​.

Comparing the Mars 4 Ultra 9K to its predecessor, the Mars 3, the difference in printing precision is not merely on paper. The shift from 35 micron to 18 micron in XY resolution delineates details roughly half the size, bringing a noticeable enhancement in print quality, especially in models with intricate geometries or complex curves. Whether you are printing miniature figurines or complex prototypes, the Ultra 9K ensures every nuance is captured with remarkable precision​.

One of the Mars 4 Ultra 9K's standout features is its fast printing capabilities, a trait that's becoming increasingly significant in a market that's always in a rush. Achieving a print speed of up to 150mm/H with ACF release liner film and the upcoming ELEGOO FAST standard resin, this printer doesn’t just deliver quality; it delivers it swiftly​.

While speed is a notable advantage, it's the consistency in maintaining high-quality outputs even at accelerated printing rates that truly shines. The Mars 4 Ultra 9K doesn’t compromise on the intricacies, ensuring that every print job, whether rushed or not, results in a meticulously detailed model. This balance of speed and quality is where the Ultra 9K leaves a mark, catering to both patient perfectionists and hurried hobbyists alike.

Diving into the software realm, the Mars 4 Ultra 9K exhibits a smooth and user-friendly interface, making the transition from other models or brands less daunting. The software optimization further enhances the printing experience, with noticeable smoothness in operation compared to its predecessors​.

The introduction of wifi printing is a game-changing feature, albeit currently only available through ELEGOO’s new Voxeldance Tango slicer. The promise of wireless printing brings a layer of convenience that could simplify the printing process considerably. As wifi printing becomes more integrated with common slicer software, the usability of the Mars 4 Ultra 9K is bound to soar, aligning with modern-day expectations of wireless operability​.

The Mars 4 Ultra 9K shines in its practical design choices. The port placement is one such feature that stands out, embodying a user-centric approach by keeping things simple and neat​.

Beyond just aesthetics and ease of access, the intelligent port placement facilitates a clutter-free workspace, which is often underrated but crucial for an efficient printing experience. Moreover, while the printer packs in a host of advanced features, it steers clear of gimmicks, focusing instead on practicality and performance. This blend of simplicity and functionality underscores ELEGOO’s commitment to delivering a printer that’s as reliable as it is advanced, making the Mars 4 Ultra 9K a worthy contender for both seasoned printers and newcomers to the 3D printing realm.

The litmus test for any printer is the quality of prints it produces. The Mars 4 Ultra 9K doesn’t just pass this test; it excels with flying colors, especially when pitted against its predecessor, the Mars 3. The improved XY resolution translates to noticeably finer details on models, showcasing a significant enhancement especially on complex curves and intricate geometries​.

A side-by-side comparison of prints from the Mars 3 and the Mars 4 Ultra 9K reveals a clear winner. While the Mars 3 already produced commendable prints, the Ultra 9K takes it a notch higher, refining the sharpness and accuracy to a degree where the differences are visible even to an untrained eye. This stark improvement in print quality places the Mars 4 Ultra 9K in a league of its own, setting a new benchmark for resin printers in its class.

The Mars 4 Ultra 9K introduces some tweaks in the build area, notably a change in the build plate dimensions and a slight reduction in build height. Although these modifications may seem minor, they could impact those who regularly print taller objects​.

The new build plate, now measuring 156x77mm as opposed to the previous 143x90mm, although nearly identical in total surface area, presents a slightly different aspect ratio. This change necessitates a minor adjustment in arranging models on the build plate, but doesn’t significantly impede the printer’s functionality. The thoughtful design adjustments underline ELEGOO's continuous endeavor to refine user experience even in the minutest of details.

With a 1-year warranty and the promise of lifetime support, ELEGOO creates a safety net for users. The assurance of support not only reflects the brand’s confidence in its product but also provides a peace of mind to the users, knowing that assistance is just a call or email away​.

Additionally, the vibrant community of ELEGOO Mars series users is a treasure trove of shared experiences, tips, and troubleshooting advice. This community-driven support amplifies the official support channels, creating a conducive ecosystem for both novices and experienced users to thrive and explore the full potential of the Mars 4 Ultra 9K.

The Mars 4 Ultra 9K is a testimony to ELEGOO's consistent effort in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in consumer-grade 3D printing. The printer shines with its precision, speed, and user-centric design, setting it apart in a crowded market.

The improved resolution and the attention to practical design elements make it a worthy upgrade for those seeking finer detail in their prints. While there are some areas of improvement, like the integration of wifi printing with more slicer software, the Mars 4 Ultra 9K stands as a strong contender for anyone looking to invest in a reliable, high-quality resin 3D printer. The balance of price, performance, and support offered makes it a compelling choice for both seasoned printers and those just starting their 3D printing journey​.