Photon P1 Max vs Form 4

Technical comparison · Resin 3D printing

In brief

Photon P1 Max leads on the measurable specs (starting with work area), while Form 4 shows no advantage of its own. Choose Photon P1 Max, unless non-technical factors (availability, support, ecosystem) tip the balance.

Parameter
Formlabs Form 4 Form 4 Formlabs F3 · Advanced
Identity
Launch year 2026 2024
Use tier F3 — Advanced F3 — Advanced
Price
Price (€) 4349 €
Universal specs
Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) 39.8 × 36.7 × 55.4 cm
Weight (kg) 18.3 kg
Work area (mm) 285.5 × 214 mm 200 × 125 mm
Z-axis height (mm) 300 mm 210 mm
Power (W) 480 W
Voltage (V) 240 V
Maximum speed 100
Declared precision 24.8 μm 50 μm
Category specs
Build area XY (short side) (mm) 214 mm 125 mm
XY resolution (µm) 24.8 µm 50 µm
Light source Mono LCD Mono LCD
UV power (mW/cm²) 16 mW/cm²
Print speed (mm/h) 100 mm/h
Ecosystem
Cloud dependency No No
Software notes The system supports file formats generated by the most popular third-party print preparation software, such as ChiTuBox and LycheeSlicer, ensuring operational flexibility and a consolidated workflow. The manufacturer also provides Anycubic Photon Workshop, the proprietary application optimized to fine-tune exposure parameters, manage advanced supports, and fully exploit the screen's pixel density without slowing down layer calculation. The printing process is managed by the proprietary PreForm software, a closed application that automatically optimizes model orientation, support generation, and production time calculations. This software environment is designed to ensure a highly streamlined and standardized workflow, ideal for professional contexts where result predictability is crucial. PreForm integrates seamlessly with the manufacturer's ecosystem, receiving continuous updates that introduce new profiles for proprietary resins. The machine also offers optional access to Fleet Control and the cloud-based Dashboard platform, which are advanced tools that allow users to monitor print queues, manage multiple units in parallel, and track material consumption in real time remotely.

The differences that matter

  • Work area: Photon P1 Max 285.5×214 mm vs Form 4 200×125 mm — Photon P1 Max wins (+144%)

Which one to choose

Choose Photon P1 Max if…

you value work area.

See the Photon P1 Max sheet →

Choose Form 4 if…

it shows no measurable advantage over Photon P1 Max on the available specs: consider it on price or availability.

See the Form 4 sheet →

MakerSpecs is an independent atlas. We don't sell products: this comparison links to both sheets, where you'll find complete data and official links.