When the EPAX X1 first launched, it was positioned as a reliable entry into the resin 3D printing market. Known for its sturdy build, consistent performance, and straightforward setup, it quickly earned attention from hobbyists and professionals alike. Fast forward to 2025, and the X1 still holds a place in discussions, though newer resin printers bring faster speeds, higher resolution, and larger build volumes to the table. The question is: does the EPAX X1 still make sense today?
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The EPAX X1 originally launched in 2019, during a time when resin 3D printing was just starting to become more accessible. It quickly gained popularity for its build quality and dependable prints. Users valued the fact that it required less tinkering than some competitors, making it a “workhorse” resin printer that could run consistently without constant adjustments. Community forums, YouTube reviews, and social media showcased everything from detailed miniatures to engineering prototypes, reinforcing its reputation as a stable, beginner-friendly option.
Even in 2025, many owners still run their EPAX X1 units, a testament to its durability. That said, the market has advanced significantly, and the X1 now feels more like a legacy option compared to sleeker, faster, and more efficient resin printers available today.
Unboxing the EPAX X1 feels reassuring from the start. The printer comes well‑protected with dense foam packaging that keeps every part firmly in place. Because it arrives fully assembled, you won’t find yourself sorting through piles of loose components. Instead, the key items such as the resin vat, build plate, and toolkit are organized neatly and easy to access.
Setup is just as straightforward. Once unboxed, you’ll remove protective films, secure the build plate, and run the simple leveling procedure using the provided guide. The touchscreen walks you through the steps, so there’s no guesswork involved. Within about 15 to 20 minutes, you can pour resin, load a test file from the USB stick, and start printing.
This combination of careful packaging and minimal setup makes the EPAX X1 especially welcoming for beginners who want to focus on printing rather than assembly.
Unlike some kit-based printers, the EPAX X1 arrives fully assembled. Getting started is simple: unpack, plug it in, insert the USB stick, and level the build plate using the included guide. The machine’s sturdy metal frame inspires confidence, while its touchscreen interface makes it easy to load files and monitor progress.
The setup time is minimal, often under 20 minutes from unboxing to the first test print. For users who don’t want to fuss with calibration, this printer delivers a straightforward introduction to resin printing.
| Stage | Time Estimate | Key Challenges | Tips/Notes |
| Unboxing & Placement | 10–15 minutes | Handling the compact but weighty frame | Place it on a level, stable desk with good ventilation |
| Removing Packaging Material | 5 minutes | Peeling protective films without scratching parts | Keep the original packaging for future transport |
| Build Plate Check & Secure | 5 minutes | Ensuring it’s firmly in place | Lightly tighten and confirm plate alignment |
| Resin Vat Check & Secure | 5 minutes | Making sure vat sits flush on LCD screen | Confirm screws are snug to prevent leaks |
| Leveling Verification | 5–10 minutes | Adjusting Z offset if necessary | Follow touchscreen prompts; usually factory-leveled |
| First Test Print | 10 minutes (prep) + print time | Pouring resin safely and loading test file | Wear gloves, mix resin well, and follow USB test file |
For its time, these specs were impressive, but in 2025, most new resin printers feature 4K, 6K, or even 8K LCDs, much larger build volumes, and lightning‑fast monochrome screens. By comparison, the X1 may feel dated, yet it still produces clean, dependable detail that works well for miniatures, jewelry prototypes, dental models, and other small functional parts.
While you won’t get the ultra‑crisp definition or speed of modern machines, its consistency and reliability remain appealing for users who value tried‑and‑true performance over cutting‑edge specs.
Specs at glance:
Printer Size: Compact desktop footprint
The EPAX X1 has always been known for delivering consistent, reliable prints. Layer adhesion is strong, details are sharp, and surface finishes are smooth compared to many of its 2019-era peers. Miniature makers and designers praised it for producing parts that required minimal sanding or cleanup.
In 2025, while its print quality still holds up, it does lag behind the ultra-sharp definition of 8K printers and the speed improvements of modern monochrome LCDs. Long print times are common, especially for full-height models, but the tradeoff is reliability. The X1 rarely misbehaves once tuned correctly.
To evaluate how the EPAX X1 performs in everyday use, we run through a series of tests designed to measure both precision and reliability. These included dimensional accuracy checks, fine detail reproduction, support handling, and tall model stability trials. The results were consistently strong for a class and release-era printer. Small models such as miniatures came out crisp, while full-height prints showed smooth surfaces and good adhesion across layers. Even on longer jobs, the X1 maintained accuracy without requiring constant recalibration.
This shows that while the EPAX X1 may not compete with the latest 8K resin machines in sheer sharpness or speed, it is still capable of producing accurate, reliable prints that justify its place in a modern workshop.
| Test Type | Result Highlights | Observations |
| Dimensional Accuracy Test | Close to CAD specs | Slight deviations possible on large diagonals, but minimal |
| Fine Detail Test | Crisp miniature details | Edges and textures remain clear even at small scales |
| Overhang/Support Test | Clean with proper supports | Supports detach cleanly; slight marks that sand off easily |
| Tall Model Stability | No wobble detected | Dual rails keep Z-axis steady on multi-hour prints |
| Surface Finish Test | Smooth resin surfaces | Requires minimal sanding or post-processing |
Keeping your EPAX X1 up to date does not always mean buying a brand-new printer. Many owners in the community have shared their own tweaks and modifications that keep this machine feeling fresh and capable, even years after its release.
The original 2K LCD works fine, but plenty of users point out that it starts to feel slow compared to today’s standards. That is why many people recommend upgrading to a monochrome LCD.
A monochrome screen lets you cut exposure times significantly, improves detail sharpness, and lasts much longer before needing replacement. When you make this change, your X1 will feel faster, more efficient, and a lot closer to what modern resin printers can do.
Standard FEP film is serviceable, but it is also known for wearing out quickly and creating more peel resistance than necessary. Owners who switched to NFEP film often say it feels like they are running a different machine. Prints release from the film more smoothly, delicate features survive without tearing, and the film holds up longer before clouding. This small upgrade reduces failed prints and saves you time in the long run.
If you have ever had a print fail on the first few layers, you know how discouraging it can be.
Several users recommend swapping the stock build plate for a textured or sandblasted version. A rougher surface helps resin adhere during the print, and once the job is finished, parts pop off with much less effort. This means you can spend more time enjoying your prints instead of fighting with adhesion problems.
Many people who use the EPAX X1 regularly mention the noise of the factory fans. It is not unbearable, but if your printer is running in the same space where you work or relax, the hum can get distracting.
Replacing those fans with quieter, higher-quality alternatives makes the X1 far more pleasant to live with. Better cooling also supports print consistency, especially on longer projects that run for many hours.
A handful of community members have experimented with upgrading or reinforcing the UV LED array. The stock light system does the job, but over time, it can lose uniformity.
Adding a stronger or more even light source improves curing across the build plate, giving you prints that are sharper and more consistent from edge to edge. This is especially helpful if you often print full plates of miniatures or large, detailed models.
One of the easiest ways to improve your results is not even inside the printer itself. A separate UV curing station helps your models reach full strength and gives them a smoother, more professional finish.
Owners often say this is a game-changer for workflow because it frees the printer to start on a new job while your last part cures. It saves time and makes the whole printing process feel more efficient.
While it is easy to focus on hardware, software matters just as much. Updating your firmware keeps the printer stable and can add small improvements from the manufacturer.
Meanwhile, slicer profiles shared by the community take a lot of guesswork out of finding the right settings. Using proven exposure times, lift speeds, and layer heights from other X1 users can dramatically cut down on trial and error. It is a reminder that sometimes the smartest upgrade is simply learning from those who have already done the hard work.
The EPAX X1 has a reputation for reliability, but like any resin printer, it needs consistent care.
Daily maintenance and post-print care
After every single print, pour unused resin back into its bottle through a filter so you keep dust and cured particles out. Wipe the build plate clean so the next job starts fresh, and take a moment to check the vat for stray cured bits. A quick wipe of the screen protector with isopropyl alcohol keeps it clear, and storing your resin in a cool, dark place helps it stay stable for your next project.
Weekly checks
Once a week, give your X1 a little extra attention. Look closely at the FEP or NFEP film and replace it if you see scratches, clouding, or punctures. Slide the Z rails up and down by hand to make sure they feel smooth, and apply a light lubricant if they start to feel sticky.
Check all screws on the build plate and vat to confirm they are snug. These small steps help prevent bigger problems and keep your prints looking sharp.
Long-term reliability
Every month, set aside time to verify your Z offset and make sure the plate is aligned properly. Run a short exposure calibration test to confirm your curing times are still accurate.
If you notice that prints need longer exposure or you start to see dim spots, it may be time to inspect the LCD and LED array. Replacing worn parts before they fail completely keeps your printer predictable and reliable.
Every printer has its quirks, and the EPAX X1 is no different. The good news is that most of the problems you might face are minor and easy to solve.
If you have ever started a print and watched it peel off the plate instead of sticking, you know how frustrating it feels. With the EPAX X1, this usually happens when the build plate is not quite level or the surface is too smooth. The good news is that you can solve this in just a few minutes. Re-level your plate carefully and give it a light sanding to help resin grip better.
You can also boost the exposure time on your bottom layers to lock the model in place. Once you make these small tweaks, you will notice your prints staying put from the very first layer.
Nothing spoils a detailed model like those faint ripples or lines that creep in on taller prints. On the X1, this usually comes from a loose Z-axis or settings that move the plate too quickly. Tightening a few screws, keeping the rails lubricated, and slowing the lift speed just a touch can make a big difference.
Adding a short rest after each lift gives resin time to settle, and suddenly your layers will look smoother and more consistent. It is a small change that makes your finished models look far more professional.
Supports are your best friend and your worst enemy at the same time. They keep your print standing, but they can scar the surface or even fail mid-print. If you are noticing pitting or supports snapping off, try increasing the tip size slightly and adding a few extra supports in heavy areas. Shorten the lift distance for smaller parts to reduce peel stress, and you will see your supports holding strong without leaving ugly marks.
With a little tuning, you can strike the right balance between reliable support and clean surfaces.
The clear film at the bottom of your vat does a lot of work, and over time, it will start to show it. Cloudy spots scatter light, and punctures can ruin an entire print run. When you see these signs, it is time for a swap. Fresh FEP film will restore clarity, but many X1 owners move up to NFEP film because it lasts longer and reduces peel forces.
That means smoother surfaces, more successful prints, and less time spent changing film. It is one of the easiest upgrades that makes your printer feel brand new again.
If your once-crisp prints start coming out soft, or you see faint dead pixels showing up, your LCD screen or UV LEDs may be losing strength. This is natural with age, but it is not the end of the road. Replacing the LCD or LED array brings the curing power back to where it should be, cutting down exposure times and sharpening detail. It is an investment, but if you like your X1 and want to keep it running for years, it is absolutely worth it.
When you are considering a resin printer, the decision often comes down to how well it balances print quality, build volume, and cost. The EPAX X1 may no longer be the newest option on the shelf, but it continues to stand out for its durability and reliable results, even as it faces strong competition from newer models.
| Specification | EPAX X1 | Anycubic Photon Mono 2 | Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra | Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K |
| Build Volume | 115 x 65 x 155 mm | 165 x 89 x 143 mm | 153.36 x 77.76 x 165 mm | 165 x 72 x 180 mm |
| LCD Resolution | 2K | 4K | 6K | 8K |
| Print Speed | Slower | Fast (mono LCD) | Faster (mono LCD) | Faster (mono LCD) |
| Price Range (USD, 2025) | $250 – $300 (used/refurb) | $299 – $399 | $350 – $450 | $500 – $600 |
The EPAX X1 is clearly behind in raw specs, but it can still serve as a budget-friendly entry point, especially if you find a refurbished unit. If your priority is detail, reliability, and affordability, it still has value. If you want speed, larger build space, and ultra-high resolution, newer models will suit you better.
In 2025, the EPAX X1 is best viewed as a dependable legacy printer. It’s not the fastest, flashiest, or most detailed anymore, but it remains reliable for small, detailed prints and consistent day-to-day use. If you already own one, there’s little reason to replace it unless you need larger builds or sharper resolution.
If you’re shopping today, consider whether a used EPAX X1 fits your budget or if investing in a newer 4K–8K printer makes more sense.
For anyone who values stability and proven results over the latest features, the EPAX X1 still delivers. But if you’re chasing cutting-edge performance, you’ll want to look at newer resin printers dominating the 2025 market.
Disclaimer
3DGearZone.com is a professional review site that receives compensation from the companies whose products we review. We test each product thoroughly and give high marks to only the very best. We don’t guarantee, however, that our suggestions will work best for each individual or business, so consider your unique needs when choosing products and services. 3DGearZone.com is independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own.
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Sources
1. Epax3D.com, “EPAX 3D” Accessed July 26, 2022.
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