If you make a purchase using a shopping link on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn More
ANET N4 LCD
About the ANET N4 LCD
The Anet N4 LCD 3D printer is a DLP resin printer with a unique look, providing a build volume of 120x65x138 mm. It is made of mostly aluminum parts and has a removable platform with a solid ball bed-leveling system. The secure locking mechanism allows full movement when you are leveling your bed. Utilizing a 3.5” color touch screen, the printing cross-section can be displayed in real-time as the part is being printed. Printing speed is anywhere from 5 to 10 seconds per layer with a thickness of 40 to 100 micrometers and touting a precision of one-thousandth of a millimeter. The slicer for the Anet N4, ALPrint, is proprietary. It uses a file type that is unique to the N4 and while there may be issues with some of the basic controls, ANet promises to keep the software consistently updated. Hollowing is not currently available, however, designs can be exported to a different slicer, such as Chitubox, and then imported back into ALPrint for final printing. Something else that can be slightly annoying is the lack of front-facing ports and power switch.
Benefits of the ANET N4 LCD
Has touch screen - having a touch screen isn't a deal-maker or breaker, but it is a convenient feature that makes it easier to navigate the interface when you are printing files and configuring 3D printing settings.
Fully assembled - This 3D printer is shipped completely assembled, and is ready to plug in and start using as soon as you unbox it. You will still need to follow the included calibration procedures, but this will not take a significant amount of time.
Affordable - This printer does not include a lot of frills, but offers a good experience for a low price point. While this low price means you won't be getting the most premium features, you can still get a lot out of these machines if you are willing to put up with some missing quality of life features.
Enclosure - An enclosure seals air around the print area. This holds warm, still air around the print area and is essential for printing temperature-sensitive materials like ABS. Enclosures also prevent particulates and gasses from being emitted into the surrounding area, increasing safety. They also greatly reduce printer noise.
Disadvantages to consider
Manual bed levelling - This printer requires you to to adjust the bed level manually using nuts on each corner of the print bed. Once you have calibrated the bed leveling, you may need to adjust the levelling knobs periodically to ensure good first layer adhesion to the print bed.
Limited build volume - This printer has a smaller than average build volume, which will restrict the possibilities of what you can print. Especially with functional parts, having a larger printer can open up a lot of options without the need to print parts in smaller pieces. On a positive note, this makes the printer easy to fit on a desk and very portable.
Where to buy the ANET N4 LCD
Brand Summary: ANET
Anet is a popular choice for hobbyists and beginners seeking affordable entry into the world of 3D printing. Their claim to fame lies in offering some of the most budget-friendly FDM printers on the market. However, this affordability comes with a caveat – Anet printers often require some tinkering and user modifications to achieve good quality prints. While Anet itself offers email support, the real strength lies in the brand's large and active online community. Here, users can find a wealth of troubleshooting guides, printer modifications, and shared knowledge from other enthusiasts. This collaborative environment is invaluable for overcoming challenges and unlocking the full potential of your Anet printer. However, it's important to be realistic about your expectations. Anet printers are ideal for tinkerers and budget-conscious beginners who are comfortable with a steeper learning curve. If user-friendliness, extensive manufacturer support, or a guaranteed out-of-the-box experience are your top priorities, then other brands like Creality might be a better fit. But for those willing to invest time in research and troubleshooting, Anet offers a valuable entry point into the exciting world of 3D printing.
Pros
- Has touch screen
- Fully assembled
- Affordable
- Enclosure
Cons
- Manual bed levelling
- Limited build volume
Printer Comparisons
You can compare the ANET N4 LCD to other 3D printers using our Compare tool.