ELEGOO Mars Series Update: Mars 3 Pro 3D Printer Review

by Anabelle Yearsdon

Updated Jan 14, 2023 2996

It is hard to surprise anyone with a powerful yet compact device, since we live in the age of ergonomics. Still, in the world of 3D printers, developers never cease to amaze creators by expanding the horizons of AM in the most effective way.

Thus, Chinese manufacturer ELEGOO has expanded their product line with the Mars 3 Pro 3D printer — a potent MSLA machine for the miniature-oriented Mars lineup coming with a number of essential improvements of the already successful formula. So how does it cope with the task to deliver 4K quality at high speed while maintaining a stable rate of production?

This is Top 3D Shop, and today we are going to look through the main peculiarities and important changes of the new iteration in the ELEGOO Mars series.

Pros and cons

Powerful light source
High-resolution LCD screen
Incredible printing speed
Built-in air purifier
Reliable performance
Open material system
Easy cleanup and maintenance

No 1 year free trial of Chitubox Pro slicer compared to the standard Mars 3
Noisy cooling fan that functions constantly while the printer is on
Might require USB formatting to detect the user’s files

Overview

The Mars 3 Pro is a professional desktop MSLA 3D printer from the Chinese company ELEGOO known for its efficient AM equipment. The Mars series is aimed at fast and accurate production of small-to-large models, mostly miniatures for various creative purposes. Being the most compact machines from ELEGOO, these printers nevertheless provide top-quality outputs in a cost-effective way.

The Mars 3 Pro model continues the tradition of the series by offering impressive detailing capabilities, consistent print accuracy, and stable performance in combination with user-friendly 3D printing experience. In addition, it has all the high-end functions and components introduced by the recent generation of the ELEGOO Saturn 3D printers.

Here is the list of the features that make the Mars 3 Pro ideal for various personal and professional applications:

Superior light source ensuring 92% light uniformity;
6.6" 4K LCD screen restores the smallest details of the model;
Advanced screen protection and increased adhesion;
Capacious build volume despite a fairly compact footprint;
USB-powered air purifier with a built-in active carbon filter for friendly working environment;
Robust structure with top-quality components making for stable 3D printing and extended life span of the device;
Compatibility with the Chitubox slicing software providing all the necessary tools for simple 3D model editing in just a few clicks;
Perfect for modeling, prototyping, low volume production, design, and more.

Specifications

Highlights

Let’s take a look at the Mars 3 Pro’s prominent updates compared to the Mars 3 model.

Improved light source

One of the most important changes in the Pro version is the upgraded light source. It consists of a free-form surface COB lens incorporating 36 highly integrated UV LED lights and a newly added Fresnel lens delivering an even beam of 405nm wavelength. Enhanced light uniformity results in smoother surface finish and overall impressive print quality making for a truly Pro approach.

Extra air purifier

Another helpful innovation borrowed from the Saturn series is a USB-powered air purifier with an active carbon filter that effectively absorbs and eliminates unpleasant fumes and odors that come with resin 3D printing. The device operates directly inside the printer and is indispensable for a fresh working environment. Luckily, it is supplied with the Mars 3 Pro by default.

Upgraded ventilation

Apart from the aforementioned improvements, the Mars 3 Pro is equipped with an upgraded ventilation mechanism. It includes dual copper heat tubes and a powerful cooling fan providing faster heat transfer and better cooling efficiency. In the long run, this significantly extends the service life of the printer and the quality of its outputs.

Enhanced screen protection

What makes the Pro version even more user-friendly and reliable, is a replaceable anti-scratch tempered glass with 9H hardness that basically serves as a built-in screen protector. On top of the improved light transmittance resulting in a higher level of detail for the printed models, it leads to the simplified cleaning and replacement procedures, which is another step forward for the Mars series.

Thoughtful package

To make your user experience with the Mars 3 Pro even more comfortable, ELEGOO supplies the printer with 2 extra FEP 2.0 films for free. This will come in handy for a higher printing success rate since this release liner offers more adhesion and less deformation in comparison with its counterparts.

Other features

In terms of the screen resolution and build volume, the Mars 3 Pro is not different from the standard model. It boasts a 6.6" 4K monochrome LCD screen with 4098 x 2560 px resolution and build area of 143 x 89.6 x 175 mm ready for a single large model as well as time-saving batch printing. To maximize stability and boost performance of the printer, ELEGOO have also engineered it with non-slip hexagon socket leveling screws and sandblasted oxide surface build plate. Taking into account all these bright features, it is easy to see what makes the model really Pro.

Print samples

The Mars 3 Pro is ideal for a number of tasks connected with modeling, prototyping, low volume production, and more. Here are some examples of what the printer is capable of.

Credit: @dontdrinkresin / Instagram

Credit: @redflaremodels / Instagram

Better with a bit of customization

In the Mars 3 Pro review, 3D printing and cosplay enthusiast Uncle Jessy showed several highly detailed models produced with the help of the machine to demonstrate its impressive print accuracy and speed.

Credit: Uncle Jessy / YouTube

It turned out that with some settings tweaks the Mars 3 Pro can print incredibly fast and still keep high detailing, which is particularly useful for professional 3D miniatures makers.

Credit: Uncle Jessy / YouTube

Quality available for the masses

Hobbyist FauxHammer appreciated the Mars 3 Pro’s build size and print quality by calling it “the perfect sweet spot” for everybody who is looking for a reliable printer for miniatures and larger models with many details.

Credit: FauxHammer / YouTube

Detailing without frills

The user VogMan decided to print several miniature models without anti-aliasing to show the Mars 3 Pro’s real quality. The results are viewed through a high-powered macro lens for greater certainty.

Credit: VogMan / YouTube

Bottom line

The Mars 3 Pro 3D printer is an accessible device with professional capabilities and a number of user-oriented features. Being an advanced version of the already great machine, it is made for producing highly-detailed models with an impressive speed. Due to the upgraded hardware, enhanced comfort of use, and budget-friendly price, the device will satisfy the requirements of both first-time and experienced makers of miniatures and other creative products.

FAQ

Can I use my own USB drive with ELEGOO Mars 3 Pro?

Yes, if you are not satisfied with the provided flash drive, you can always use your own device.

What are the printer dimensions?

The outer dimensions for the Mars 3 Pro model are 227 x 227 x 438.5 mm (8.9 x 8.9 x 17.2 in), just like in case with the standard Mars 3.

What will I get by ordering the Mars 3 Pro?

Apart from a set of necessary parts required to operate the printer, the package includes a toolbox, Mini Air Purifier, USB drive, personal protective equipment, and two extra FEP 2.0 films. To see the full list, check out the product page on our website.

Anabelle Yearsdon

Updated Jan 14, 2023

About the expert

A linguist by profession and 3D enthusiast by passion. Spirited researcher of existing and new AM technologies, inquisitive tester of various devices, and a true connoisseur of creative ways. In addition to digital manufacturing, Ana enjoys learning new things, cooking for her loved ones, and chilling in video games.