What distinguishes a resin-based 3D printer from a filament-based 3D printer?

1 Filament-based 3D printers

Filament-based 3D printers use a plastic material, usually called filament, that is fed into a heated nozzle, where it melts and extrudes onto a build plate. The nozzle moves along the X, Y, and Z axes, creating layers of plastic that form the 3D object. This process is also known as fused deposition modeling (FDM) or fused filament fabrication (FFF). Filament-based 3D printers are the most common and affordable type of 3D printers, and they can print with a wide range of materials, such as PLA, ABS, PETG, nylon, wood, metal, and more.

2 Resin-based 3D printers

Resin-based 3D printers use a liquid material, usually called resin, that is cured by a light source, such as a laser or an LED. The light source selectively hardens the resin on a build plate, creating layers of solid material that form the 3D object. The build plate moves along the Z axis, while the resin tank stays in place. This process is also known as stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP). Resin-based 3D printers are less common and more expensive than filament-based 3D printers, but they can print with higher resolution, accuracy, and detail, and they can use different types of resins, such as standard, tough, flexible, castable, and more.

3 Printing speed and quality

One of the main differences between filament-based and resin-based 3D printers is their printing speed and quality. Filament-based 3D printers tend to be faster than resin-based 3D printers, because they do not need to wait for the resin to cure between layers. However, filament-based 3D printers also tend to produce lower quality prints, because they have more visible layer lines, less smooth surfaces, and more potential for warping and cracking. Resin-based 3D printers, on the other hand, tend to be slower than filament-based 3D printers, because they need to expose each layer of resin to light for a certain amount of time. However, resin-based 3D printers also tend to produce higher quality prints, because they have less visible layer lines, more smooth surfaces, and more intricate details.

4 Printing cost and maintenance

Another difference between filament-based and resin-based 3D printers is their printing cost and maintenance. Filament-based 3D printers are generally cheaper to operate and maintain than resin-based 3D printers, because filament is less expensive and easier to store than resin, and the printer parts are more durable and less prone to wear and tear. Filament-based 3D printers also require less post-processing than resin-based 3D printers, because the prints are ready to use once they cool down. Resin-based 3D printers, on the other hand, are generally more expensive to operate and maintain than filament-based 3D printers, because resin is more expensive and harder to store than filament, and the printer parts are more sensitive and more likely to need replacement. Resin-based 3D printers also require more post-processing than filament-based 3D printers, because the prints need to be cleaned, cured, and sometimes sanded or polished.

5 Printing safety and environmental impact

A final difference between filament-based and resin-based 3D printers is their printing safety and environmental impact. Filament-based 3D printers are relatively safe and eco-friendly, because filament is mostly made of biodegradable or recyclable materials, and the printing process does not emit harmful fumes or odors. However, some filament materials, such as ABS, can release toxic gases when heated, and some printers may have hot or moving parts that can cause burns or injuries. Resin-based 3D printers are less safe and eco-friendly, because resin is mostly made of non-biodegradable or non-recyclable materials, and the printing process can emit harmful fumes or odors. Moreover, resin is a skin and eye irritant, and it needs to be handled with gloves and goggles, and disposed of properly. Resin prints also need to be cured with UV light, which can be harmful to the eyes and skin.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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