As an expert in the tech community, I’m always on the lookout for affordable ways to bring advanced technology to a wider audience. 3D printing has been a game-changer, and resin printers, in particular, offer incredible detail. So, when the Creality LD-002R came across my desk, promising MSLA resin printing on a budget, I was eager to see how it performed.
Here’s my in-depth look at the Creality LD-002R, covering its design, setup, print quality, speed, and overall value.
What’s in the Box?
The LD-002R comes with everything you need to get started:
- Resin vat: Holds the liquid resin.
- Build platform: The printing surface.
- USB drive: Contains software and test files.
- Power cable: For connecting to a power outlet.
- Tools: Allen keys, a brush, and scrapers for cleaning and maintenance.
- Extra FEP film: Replacement film for the resin vat.
Note: Unlike some competitors, the LD-002R does not include nitrile gloves or a surgical mask, which are essential for safe resin handling. Be sure to order these separately.
Design and Features
The LD-002R sports a familiar MSLA design with a sturdy metal base, an orange UV-blocking lid, and a removable resin vat. The 3.5-inch touchscreen interface is bright, responsive, and user-friendly.
Here are some notable design features:
- Sturdy Construction: The metal frame provides stability during printing.
- Integrated Air Filter: An active carbon filter helps reduce resin fumes.
- Easy Vat Removal: Thumbscrews secure the resin vat for easy removal and cleaning.
- Four-Point Leveling System: Ensures the build platform is properly aligned.
- Accessible Controller Board: A removable side panel provides access for maintenance or modifications.
Setting Up the LD-002R
Setting up the LD-002R is relatively straightforward, taking about an hour. The process involves:
- Leveling the Build Platform: Use the four screws to align the platform parallel to the LCD screen.
- Installing and Filling the Resin Vat: Attach the vat and carefully pour in your resin.
- Loading the Test Print: Insert the USB drive and select the pre-loaded Eiffel Tower model.
Safety First:
- Always wear gloves and a mask when handling resin.
- Work in a well-ventilated area.
- Clean up spills immediately with isopropyl alcohol.
Print Quality and Detail
The LD-002R boasts a 2K LCD with a resolution of 2560 x 1440 pixels, resulting in an XY resolution of 0.075mm. While the print quality is generally good, the 9-second per-layer exposure time is significantly slower than printers with monochrome LCDs.
Test Print Results:
The included Eiffel Tower test print took over 19 hours to complete. While the detail was impressive, the lengthy print time is a significant drawback.
Further Testing:
I printed several other models, including a detailed bust and a miniature with intricate supports. The LD-002R consistently produced good quality prints with sharp details and clean lines. However, the slow print speed remained a constant frustration.
Print Speed Comparison
To illustrate the speed difference, I compared the LD-002R’s print time to the Anycubic Photon Mono, a similarly priced printer with a monochrome LCD:
| Feature | Anycubic Photon Mono | Creality LD-002R |
|---|---|---|
| Exposure Time | 2.0 seconds | 9.0 seconds |
| Lift Speed | 180mm/min | 65mm/min |
| Retract Speed | 240mm/min | 150mm/min |
| Print Height | 118.73mm | 120.93mm |
| Print Time | 6 Hours | 19 Hours 15 Mins |
The Verdict:
The Photon Mono printed the same model in just 6 hours, compared to the LD-002R’s 19 hours. This significant difference in speed is a direct result of the monochrome LCD technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable Price: Makes resin printing accessible to hobbyists on a budget.
- Sturdy Construction: Durable metal frame ensures stability.
- Integrated Air Filter: Reduces resin fumes for a safer printing environment.
- Good Print Quality: Capable of producing detailed and accurate prints.
Cons:
- Slow Print Speeds: The RGB LCD requires significantly longer exposure times, resulting in very slow print speeds.
- Questionable Quality Control: My review unit arrived with a used build platform.
- Lack of Customer Support: I received no response from Creality regarding the used platform.
Final Thoughts
The Creality LD-002R is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it offers a very affordable entry point into the world of MSLA resin printing, and it’s capable of producing good quality prints. However, the painfully slow print speeds, questionable quality control, and lack of customer support are major drawbacks.
Alternatives:
For just a bit more, the Anycubic Photon Mono offers significantly faster print speeds and a more polished overall experience. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind the wait, the LD-002R might suffice. However, if you value your time and want a more reliable printer, I recommend looking elsewhere.
Further Resources:
- All About 3D Printing: Learn more about different 3D printing technologies and find the right printer for you.
- Best Budget 3D Printers: Explore other affordable options for getting started with 3D printing.
- Best Resin 3D Printers: Discover the top-rated resin printers for high-quality prints.
