Resin VS Filament - Whats the difference? 12.Jul.2023

Resin VS Filament - Whats the difference?

Resin and filament 3D printing are two popular methods used to bring your digital designs to life, but they have some key differences.

Resin 3D printing, also known as stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP), uses a special liquid resin material. The printer works its magic by using a UV light source to selectively cure the liquid resin layer by layer, creating your 3D object. The result is super detailed and precise prints with smooth surfaces. It's like watching your creation rise from a pool of liquid magic!

On the other hand, filament 3D printing, also known as fused deposition modeling (FDM), is like a fancy hot glue gun for printing. Instead of liquid resin, it uses a solid filament, usually made of plastic, which is fed into the printer. The filament is heated and melted, and then carefully deposited layer by layer to build your object. It's a bit like drawing with melted plastic spaghetti, but much cooler!

So, what's the difference between the two? Well, resin printing tends to produce more detailed and high-resolution prints. It's perfect for those small, intricate objects like miniatures or jewelry. Plus, resin prints usually have a smooth surface right off the printer, requiring minimal post-processing.

Filament printing, on the other hand, is great for larger objects or functional parts. Since it uses a solid material, it's generally stronger and more durable than resin prints. You can also choose from a wide variety of filament materials, like PLA or ABS, each with its own unique properties. Plus, filament printers are often more affordable and accessible for hobbyists and beginners.

So, whether you choose resin or filament printing, it ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Both methods offer exciting possibilities to bring your ideas to life in the world of 3D printing!