Top 5 Best Epoxy Resins for 2026 – Expert Picks
Choosing the best epoxy resin can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market—especially when you’re looking for something that delivers crystal-clear results, resists yellowing, and works well for everything from river tables to jewelry. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting your DIY journey, the right epoxy resin makes all the difference in achieving professional, long-lasting finishes. After testing and comparing top-rated brands based on clarity, ease of use, durability, and real customer feedback, we’ve narrowed down the five best epoxy resins that truly stand out in 2024.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 What Is The Best Epoxy Resin Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. ZYNNORIX Resin Epoxy 1 Gallon – 3×UV Resistant, Self-Leveling, Best for DIY, Art, River Tables & Wood
This high-performance epoxy resin from ZYNNORIX is built for serious creators who demand clarity, durability, and ease. With triple UV resistance and self-leveling properties, it’s ideal for large-scale projects like river tables, bar tops, and artistic installations. Plus, it’s VOC-free and food-safe once cured—making it a smart pick for kitchen surfaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Triple UV protection prevents yellowing over time
✓ Self-leveling formula minimizes bubbles and uneven pours
✓ 1:1 mixing ratio with 40+ minutes of working time
✓ Food-safe and VOC-free when fully cured
✓ Suitable for deep pours up to 2 inches thick
Why We Recommend It
ZYNNORIX delivers professional-grade results without the steep learning curve. Its advanced formula resists bubbles, levels beautifully, and maintains crystal clarity even after months of sun exposure—perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications.
Best For
Large woodworking projects, epoxy river tables, countertops, and artists who need reliable, long-lasting resin with minimal post-processing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional clarity and gloss finish
- Strong UV resistance outperforms most competitors
- Easy 1:1 mix ratio reduces measurement errors
- Safe for food-contact surfaces after curing
Cons:
- Higher price point than budget kits
- Requires precise mixing—improper ratios can cause stickiness
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This Epoxy is excellent. Mixes really well and easily, (I used a drill with a paint mixer attachment and a paint stick to scrape the bucket sides and bottom) Pours, flows and self levels well, really minimal bubbles, easily popped with a heat gun. Workable for near an hour for me. Sandable in 24 hou”
Customer Review: “Works fantastic, BUT be VERY careful to mix EXACTLY 50/50 ratio. MUST be precise AND (extremely important) MUST mix THOROUGHLY!!! I made a mistake on a first coat and either did not measure properly or mix thoroughly and it never dried!! Was just sticky!! I managed to fix it by doing a second ba”
2. Promise Epoxy Resin Kit 2 Gallon – Crystal Clear, UV Resistant, Self-Leveling & Food Safe
Promise Epoxy has earned its reputation as a trusted name in the resin world, and this 2-gallon kit proves why. Designed for both beginners and pros, it offers a foolproof 1:1 mix ratio, self-leveling performance, and food-safe certification—ideal for kitchen upgrades and functional art pieces.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Simple 1:1 volume mixing—no scales needed
✓ Self-leveling technology ensures smooth, even coats
✓ Certified food-safe after full cure (great for tabletops)
✓ Strong UV inhibitors reduce yellowing
✓ Low odor and low VOC formulation
Why We Recommend It
Promise Epoxy strikes the perfect balance between user-friendliness and professional results. It’s forgiving enough for first-timers but robust enough for high-end finishes, making it our top pick for everyday crafting and home improvement projects.
Best For
Kitchen countertops, dining tables, bar tops, and anyone wanting a safe, reliable resin for surfaces that contact food or see heavy use.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely easy to measure and mix
- Consistently clear with minimal bubbles
- Food-safe certification adds peace of mind
- Good value for a 2-gallon kit
Cons:
- Not ideal for pours deeper than ½ inch per layer
- Working time is shorter in warmer environments
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “For first time users, I would highly recommend mixing small amounts and trying little jobs. The product can produce amazing results BUT has many nuances. This is my 2nd kit (and was substantially better than the first from a different manufacturer). I used the product in a cool garage – 55-60f so r”
Customer Review: “This product worked absolutely PERFECT for my countertop project. I’m beyond thrilled with the results. Everything went on smooth and gave me just enough time to accomplish what I needed to before the product set. Now, if you’ve never worked with Epoxy Resin there are a few VERY important things you”
3. Honcaring Epoxy Resin 16OZ – Clear Beginner-Friendly Kit for Crafts, DIY Jewelry & Small Projects
If you’re new to epoxy resin or working on smaller crafts, Honcaring’s 16oz kit is an affordable, no-fuss entry point. It includes everything you need—resin, hardener, gloves, pipettes, and stir sticks—and cures to a hard, glossy finish that rivals pricier brands.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ All-in-one beginner kit with accessories included
✓ 1:1 mixing ratio—easy for first-time users
✓ Low odor and bubble-resistant formula
✓ Cures hard and clear with a glass-like shine
✓ Great for silicone molds, jewelry, and coasters
Why We Recommend It
Honcaring proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get quality results. This kit is perfect for testing the waters of epoxy crafting without committing to a large volume, and it performs surprisingly well for the price.
Best For
DIY jewelry makers, hobbyists, students, and anyone tackling small decorative projects like keychains, ornaments, or resin art on canvas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Comes with useful tools (gloves, pipettes, stirrers)
- Cures quickly and stays clear
- Minimal bubbles with gentle stirring
Cons:
- Small batch size limits project scope
- Not suitable for thick or deep pours
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “As long as you do the 1:1 accurately you will not have an issue with this resin. Dried beautifully and I even added black pigment for a home diy project and it’s mixed in evenly. Good amount for the price point. Dried nice and hard. Definitely use gloves though! Quick and easy”
Customer Review: “As long as you do the 1:1 accurately you will not have an issue with this resin. Dried beautifully and I even added black pigment for a home diy project and it’s mixed in evenly. Good amount for the price point. Dried nice and hard. Definitely use gloves though! Quick and easy Read more”
4. MAS Epoxies Table Top Pro Epoxy Kit 2-Quart – Crystal Clear Resin for DIY Arts, Crafts & Countertops
MAS Epoxies has been a favorite among DIYers for years, and this Table Top Pro formula lives up to the hype. Engineered specifically for horizontal surfaces, it delivers a thick, durable coating that resists scratches, heat, and daily wear—all while staying crystal clear.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-gloss, glass-like finish
✓ 1:1 mix ratio by volume—no guesswork
✓ Scratch and scuff resistant once cured
✓ Ideal for tabletops, bars, and furniture restoration
✓ Self-leveling with good bubble release
Why We Recommend It
This resin is built for real-world use. Whether you’re refreshing an old coffee table or sealing a custom bar top, MAS Epoxies provides a tough, beautiful surface that holds up over time—even in high-traffic areas.
Best For
Furniture refinishing, epoxy-coated tables, bar tops, and anyone restoring wooden surfaces with a durable, glossy finish.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent durability and scratch resistance
- Consistent clarity with minimal yellowing
- Easy application with standard tools
- Trusted brand with strong user base
Cons:
- Not recommended for vertical or detailed art projects
- Can develop bubbles if not poured carefully
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I first used this product a couple years ago on a bottle cap bar counter and loved how it turned out. Now, recently I wanted to resin a slab coffee table that I finished. Didn’t think I had enough of the MAS product left to complete it so I bought a cheap alternative on Amazon. Whooo-boy, did I hav”
Customer Review: “I first used this product a couple years ago on a bottle cap bar counter and loved how it turned out. Now, recently I wanted to resin a slab coffee table that I finished. Didn’t think I had enough of the MAS product left to complete it so I bought a cheap alternative on Amazon. Whooo-boy, did I hav”
5. TAKIMO 68OZ Crystal Clear Epoxy Resin Kit – Bubble-Free, High-Gloss Finish for Art & Craft Projects
TAKIMO’s 68oz epoxy resin kit offers impressive value and performance, especially for mid-sized projects. With advanced defoaming technology and a generous working time, it’s a versatile choice for artists and crafters who want professional results without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Bubble-free formula with self-defoaming action
✓ 40-minute working time gives flexibility
✓ 1:1 mix ratio—simple and reliable
✓ Cures to a hard, glass-like finish
✓ Great for coatings, molds, and encapsulated art
Why We Recommend It
TAKIMO delivers near-professional quality at a mid-range price. Its bubble-resistant formula saves time and frustration, and the extended pot life allows for careful application—even for complex designs.
Best For
Resin art, encapsulated objects, coating paintings, and medium-sized craft projects where clarity and ease of use matter most.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Minimal bubbles without needing a heat gun
- Long working time reduces rush stress
- Good clarity and shine for the price
- Larger volume ideal for multiple projects
Cons:
- Not food-safe certified
- May yellow slightly under intense UV exposure over time
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Really easy to use. Cured fast. You can lay it on thin or thick. But the drying time increases with the thicker applications. My project only needed about 3/4 of the bottles. I sawed through it as it didn’t break so it’s very durable. Does get a bit of bubbles in it but that’s normal for the epoxy.”
Customer Review: “Easy to use. Works as described. Super clear when cured.”
Complete Buying Guide for Epoxy Resin
Essential Factors We Consider
When determining the best epoxy resin, we evaluate clarity, UV resistance, mixing ease, curing time, safety (VOC and food-safe status), and real-world performance. The ideal resin should be easy to work with, resist yellowing, and deliver a durable, glass-like finish. We also consider value—whether the price aligns with quality and volume.
Budget Planning
Epoxy resin ranges from under $20 for small craft kits to over $100 for professional gallons. Beginners can start with budget-friendly options like Honcaring, while serious woodworkers may invest in ZYNNORIX or Promise Epoxy for large projects. Always factor in extra costs like gloves, mixing cups, and heat guns.
Final Thoughts
The best epoxy resin depends on your project type, skill level, and budget. For most users, we recommend ZYNNORIX for premium results or Promise Epoxy for everyday reliability. If you’re just starting out, Honcaring offers unbeatable value. No matter your choice, always follow mixing instructions carefully—precision is key to success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best epoxy resin for river tables?
A: For river tables, choose a deep-pour, UV-resistant epoxy like ZYNNORIX or Promise Epoxy. These formulas resist yellowing, self-level beautifully, and can handle thick applications without cracking.
Q: Is epoxy resin food safe?
A: Only resins explicitly labeled “food safe” after full cure—like Promise Epoxy and ZYNNORIX—are safe for surfaces that contact food, such as countertops or cutting boards. Always check manufacturer guidelines.
Q: How long does epoxy resin take to cure?
A: Most epoxy resins cure to the touch in 6–12 hours and fully harden in 24–72 hours, depending on thickness, temperature, and brand. Thicker pours or cooler environments slow curing.
Q: Can I use epoxy resin outdoors?
A: Yes, but only if it’s UV-resistant. Look for labels like “3×UV resistant” (ZYNNORIX) or “outdoor suitable.” Non-UV-stable resins will yellow quickly in sunlight.
Q: Do I need a heat gun for epoxy resin?
A: A heat gun helps pop surface bubbles, especially in deep pours or humid conditions. However, bubble-resistant formulas like TAKIMO or Honcaring may not require one for thin coats.
Ready to create something amazing? Whether you’re building a stunning river table, crafting handmade jewelry, or upgrading your kitchen countertops, choosing the right epoxy resin is the first step toward professional-quality results. Click any “Check Price” button above to grab your preferred kit today—and start turning your vision into reality!
