The SparkMaker FHD 3D printer is the upgraded version of its original machine, the SparkMaker. Though marketed as an SLA machine, it’s technically an LCD 3D printer.
The first SparkMaker, a sub-$300 machine, was meant to be disruptive. And, for the most part, it did not live up to the hype. However, this newer iteration looks more promising, boasting some upgraded features and sturdier materials. It’s also similarly priced at just under $320, depending on where you purchase it from and has a handy app to track print progress and select print models from the SD card.
So, does this machine’s cheap price warrant a buy or are you better off going for some more established SLA technology printers? Read on to find out.
Features
Improved Print Quality
The 1080p FHD screen is by far the biggest upgrade WOW! implemented in the SparkMaker FHD. The improved LCD panel should improve print quality by giving an XY dimensional resolution of 57 microns instead of the original SparkMaker’s 100. However, whether the printer lives up to this, we cannot say as we have not reviewed the machine ourselves yet. The FHD also has a slightly larger build size and prints more quickly.
App Connectivity
Though it’s still buggy and is not yet available for iOS users, the SparkMaker offers an app along with SD card connectivity. According to an update on SparkMaker’s Kickstarter page, the Android App is available (via a Dropbox link and not the Android App store) and is in the process of being ironed out. Once that version is complete, they’ll begin working on the iPhone version. That being said, the functionality of the app is fairly limited. It “can only monitor the printing progress and select the printing files in the SD card,” says the company.
Metal Tank
Unlike its predecessor, the SparkMaker FHD boasts a metal resin tank instead of the original’s plastic one. This could be to combat issues the older SparkMaker’s tank encountered, like leakage and breaking easily.
Non-proprietory resins
This machine isn’t bound to resins from the manufacturer, a great feature if you’re looking to find deals on it. As a heads up though, the SparkMaker FHD doesn’t come with any resin liquid itself, so that’s something extra you’ll have to shell out on before you can start printing.
SparkStudio
The SparkMaker FHD (and the original SparkMaker) has a dedicated slicer software for Windows and Mac called SparkStudio.
Technical Specifications
3D Printing properties
Technology: SLA (stereolithography)
Molding size: 110 x 61.8 x 125 mm
XY-axis direction accuracy: 100μm
Z-axis direction accuracy: 25-100μm
Print material: Photosensitive resin
Single-layer printing time: 3 – 12 seconds
Stepper motor drive: 128 microsteps
Pattern generation: 1080p
Speed: 20-25 mm per hour
Printer control: Knob and app
Built-in camera for monitoring: No
Curing ultraviolet light: 400 – 405 nm 84W UV LED
Input power: DC 24V 4A 96W
Software requirements
System requirement: Windows & iOS
Connectivity: SD card
Print file format: *.fhd
Operating software: SparkStudio
Dimensions and weight
Physical dimensions: 170 x 288 mm
Total weight: 2.2 kg
Where to Buy
You can purchase the SparkMaker FHD from the following online retailers:
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