FDM 3D Printer or Resin: Which to Choose?
Discover the differences between FDM and resin 3D printers to decide which is the best option for your specific projects and needs.
3D printing, also called additive manufacturing, is the process of creating physical objects from a digital model by adding material layer by layer.
How it works
- Modeling: you create or download a 3D file (.STL or .3MF).
- Slicing: a "slicer" cuts the model into layers and generates G-code.
- Printing: the machine builds the object layer by layer.
The two most common technologies
FDM (filament): melts a plastic strand and deposits it in layers. Popular, cheap and versatile.
Resin (SLA/MSLA): uses UV light to cure liquid resin, with far superior detail.
Want to know the cost of each print? Try the FDM cost calculator or, if you print SLA/MSLA, the resin printing cost calculator.
