Our Verdict
Pros
- Larger model wash and cure size
- Very easy to setup and use
- Rotating turntable for even curing
- Better quality buttons compared to V1
- Good value for money
- Longer curing and washing time available
Cons
- Slightly large holes in basket could allow models to slip out
- Slight vibration when on
Worth The Upgrade?
Those who like to print resin models at home may have already come across the Anycubic Wash & Cure Machine. That product helped improve the post processing of resin prints, by eliminating certain procedures. And it succeeded in doing so for a relatively small price.
Now we have the next generation of washing and curing machine from Anycubic. The Wash & Cure 2.0.
I’ve been lucky enough to spend a lot of time with both the original product, and this updated version. And below I’ll run through my experience, bringing you a review of this second generation product.
What Is The Wash & Cure Machine 2.0
Both the original Wash & Cure Machine and the Wash & Cure 2.0 were designed to simplify the cleaning and curing of resin models.
Typically this process involves handling the models before they’ve been cleaned, then washing them manually, and DIYing a curing solution. This process can be messy, and time consuming as you move between each stage.
The Wash & Cure 2.0 by Anycubic intervenes, and handles the whole post processing for you. This limits the amount you need to handle the model, and reduces both mess and time.
The Was & Cure 2.0 has a specific mode for both washing and curing, and can work seamlessly with the Photon range of SLA printers.
What’s New With The 2.0?
There are a few small changes to the Wash & Cure 2.0, which are general quality of life improvements over the original.
One of the main improvements is an increase in the size, meaning you can wash and cure larger models. The machine as a whole is 10mm wider than its predecessor. This increase results in a slightly wider container, allowing for larger prints to be washed.
This larger size also accommodates a larger container inside. This lets you put larger models into the container and still seal the container shut, meaning you can wash larger models.
There is also an improvement to the controls which sit on the front of the base. Gone are the slightly dated push buttons, and in their place sit a single button, an LED screen and a control knob.
One of the small gripes with the original machine reported by some users was that the push buttons would pop off. That hasn’t been an issue with the 2.0, as the control panel as a whole is much more robust, and easier to use.
There is an addition of longer washing and curing times available. Previously you could only set the timer to a maximum of 6 minutes. Now you can crank it right up to an hour if you wish. Again, this just adds to the usability of the machine, allowing users more control.
Finally, there is an improved UV light display, with more LED’s included for better curing. Overall, these adjustments improve on the already good original Wash & Cure.
How Does It Work
Ultimately, the Wash & Cure 2.0 works in a very similar manor to its predecessor. The only improvements to the overall process come in the form of the additional running time. You can now set the timer anywhere between 1 and 60 minutes, giving you much more control over your washing and curing process.
Price Difference
On release, the Wash & Cure 2.0 did include a slight price bump. However in 2021, the original Wash & Cure is no longer available to purchase. This machine comes in under £150 / $150, and for that price is still worth a purchase if you can afford it.
Is 2.0 Worth The Upgrade?
If you already own the original Wash & Cure, then this machine doesn’t really warrant the upgrade. The machine itself, while reasonably priced, isn’t worth spending out for a second time. The original machine does everything that this machine does well enough, just with a few minor disadvantages.
However if you don’t currently own a washing and curing product, then the 2.0 is absolutely worth considering. It improves on the original machine in a few areas, bringing quality of life improvements.
And these improvements are needed now more than ever, as competitors such as Elegoo have released their own wash and cure machines. The Anycubic Wash & Cure 2.0 still remains a solid machine well into 2021, and one that’s well worth buying if you’re looking to improve your washing and curing process.
