Objective: To compare the effects and distinctions among three methods of phacoemulsification training: EYESi simulator (Dry-lab), Wet-lab, and a combined approach, in order to find out more scientific and efficient teaching method. Methods: 18 first-year residents undergoing residency training at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yatsen University were randomly assigned to three groups: Dry-lab, Wet-lab, and Combined. Each group, consisting of 6 individuals, underwent a specific training regimen—8 sessions of effective simulator training for the Dry-lab group, 8 Wet-lab sessions for the Wet-lab group, and a combination of 4 effective simulator sessions with 4 Wet-lab sessions for the Combined group. The questionnaires were administered to assess simulation effects and student satisfaction before and after each training sessions. Additionally, the training effects were recorded in the three main steps of phacoemulsification cataract extraction surgery on a pig eye model. Results: Both the EYESi simulator and Wet-lab were proved to be effective in facilitating the learning of microscopic instrument use with commendable operating experience. However, Wet-lab is superior to the virtual simulator in terms of stereoscopic sensation (P=0.007), similarity to the human eye (P<0.001), and assistance in mastering techniques(P=0.003). Simulator training is found to be more advantageous in shortening the overall training time (P<0.001). The training effect of the joint training mode is better than that of single Wet-lab training (P=0.014) and simulator training (P=0.012), and the overall satisfaction is higher than that of Wet-lab training (P=0.042) and simulator training (P=0.042). Conclusion: The EYESi virtual surgery simulator and Wet-lab training have their advantages respectively in training for phacoemulsification cataract extraction microsurgery, and the combined teaching mode is more efficient, with better training effects and overall satisfaction.