Filament 3D Printer vs Resin: understanding the difference

In the field of additive manufacturing, there are two separate technologies in use: filament-based 3D printers and resin-based 3D printers. To construct three-dimensional items in a step-by-step manner, printers that use melted filament, such as PLA or ABS, are utilized. They are perfect for both functional prototypes and bigger-scale prints, as they offer adaptability, a wide range of material options, and greater print sizes.

Filament 3D printers, on the one hand, use filament material to create prints, while resin-based printers, on the other hand, utilize liquid resin that is cured with ultraviolet radiation. The comparison between Filament 3D Printer vs Resin must be made based on the particular needs of the project, which should include the required level of detail, the qualities of the material, and the budget. Filament printers are commonly used for functional prototypes, larger models, and cost-effective production, whereas resin printers excel in producing highly detailed, intricate, and smooth-surfaced prints, making them ideal for applications such as jewelry, miniatures, and high-resolution models.

Filament 3D Printer vs Resin Comparison Table

Filament 3D printers are needed to make samples and end-use parts out of a wide range of materials that will last and work well. Resin, on the other hand, is essential for making models with smooth, detailed surfaces that are used in jewelry, dentistry, and sculptures, among other things.

What is Filament 3D Printer?

An example of 3D printing technology is the filament 3D printer, which uses a spool of filament as its primary building material. Thermoplastics like polylactic acid (PLA) and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) are commonly used to create the filament. The filament is melted and extruded through a nozzle after being put into the 3D printer. Following instructions from a 3D model or design, the printer constructs the object layer by layer. In addition to producing high-quality functional prototypes, mechanical parts, and large-scale prints, filament 3D printers are notable for their adaptability and material flexibility.

What is Resin ?

Liquid resin is used in 3D printing and other processes. Resin, when discussing 3D printing, is shorthand for photopolymer, which is a UV-sensitive substance. material-based 3D printers, sometimes called stereolithography (SLA) or digital light processing (DLP), typically utilize this material. When exposed to UV light, the liquid resin solidifies into a solid. Resin-based 3D printers are able to produce smooth, detailed items thanks to the curing process. The formulation of resin materials used in 3D printing determines their qualities and attributes, such as color, transparency, and mechanical strength.

Which is better ?

Whether you go with a 3D printer that uses filament or one that uses resin will depend on your individual circumstances. Flexibility, a vast selection of materials, and the ability to print both functioning prototypes and larger objects are just some of the benefits of filament printers. They’re not too pricey, easy to get your hands on, and produce high-quality, long-lasting prints. Prints with smooth, fine details are a specialty of resin-based printers. Jewelry, figurines, and high-definition models all benefit from their superior accuracy. Resin printers, on the other hand, are often more expensive, offer fewer material choices, and necessitate more work in the post-production phase. In the end, things like budget, desired level of detail, and the qualities of the materials you’re working with will determine which option is best.

Filament 3D Printer: The good and The bad

Reviewers from all over the internet confirm to the superior printing ability of Sunlu PLA: it prints with crisp detail, it prints smoothly, and it prints evenly.

Resin: The good and The bad

The majority of reviewers had nothing but praise for this product, praising both the excellent print quality and the level of detail that was preserved.

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