3D Printer Resin vs Filament: Choosing between resin and filament for 3D printing? Here are your options. The global 3D printing market is expected to grow to $24.8 billion by the year 2024, so it’s worth considering getting your own.
Resin printers are ideal for printing detailed designs with high precision and smooth finishes, but filament printers can also be used for larger, more robust parts. The advantage of 3D printing is that it is easy and convenient to use for any specific project.
Understanding 3D Printing Technologies
What is Filament 3D Printing?
Using FDM or filament 3D printing, plastic filament is extruded through a hot nozzle, assembling the object layer-by-layer. Think of it like using a glue gun except with much better results.
Explanation of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
The FDM process involves melting filament, then it comes out of the printer’s nozzle, cools, and forms a shape. This process continues until the entire structure is formed. It’s straightforward, which makes it perfect for beginners.
Common Uses and Benefits
The advantages of filament 3D printing are the affordability and reliable results. It can be used to make large parts such as mechanical components, models, or household items. In addition to being versatile for many assignments, FDM can utilize a wide variety of materials. It is an excellent personal and professional option.
What is Resin 3D Printing?
In resin 3D printing, a liquid resin is used to create 3D objects. The resin gets cured with light in a continuous process using several thin coats that are added one after another.
An SLA printer uses UV laser technology, which is guided to a specific point within a thick resin bath by a laser and, in this liquid bath, generates shapes in the mesh, resulting in smoother and more detailed prints. For large parts or complex designs, it is ideal.
DLP uses a projector to mix images of layers. One of its advantages is that it is not as slow as SLA. It is ideal for rapid and precise parts, such as dental parts.
As a result, resin printing provides a smooth finish even when complex geometries are used. It is used for medical implants as well as artistic works.
Comparing Print Quality and Detail
Filament 3D Printing Quality
In 3D printing with filaments (Fused Deposition Modeling – FDM), the only drawback is that the surface finish usually has visible layer lines, but these can be sanded down. 0.4 mm is a common nozzle size, which limits overall resolution, but because of their improved detail, smaller nozzles take longer to print.
The filament prints are quite strong and rigid. For instance, materials such as ABS and PETG prints are robust enough for functional parts. There are a wide range of materials available, from basic PLA to advanced carbon fiber composites. For enthusiasts and professionals alike, filament printing is perfect for producing large, solid components.
Resin 3D Printing Quality
In resin 3D printing, the resin forms a liquid form and layers them, then cures them with ultraviolet light, creating a very fine and smooth edge with intricate details. As such, resin 3D printing is ideal for tiny intricate designs like jewelry and miniatures as it produces minimal layer lines. With layers thinner than 25 microns, resin printers are only capable of creating amazing details.
The majority of resin prints are brittle, but specialty resins can make them stronger. These resins impart strength and flexibility. In order to broaden the scope of resin 3D printing, users must select the type of resin that will best suit their needs. By doing so, users can produce stronger prints.
Comparative Table: 3D Printer Resin vs Filament
| Aspect | 3D Printer Resin | 3D Printer Filament |
| Print Quality | High resolution and smooth surface finish | Good resolution with visible layer lines |
| Cost | Higher initial cost and material expense | Generally lower cost for both printer and materials |
| Ease of Use | Requires careful handling and post-processing | Easier setup and maintenance |
| Material Options | Limited, with specialized resins for durability | Wide variety, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and more |
| Typical Applications | Ideal for detailed models, miniatures, and prototypes | Best for functional parts and larger projects |
This table quickly compares the main differences between resin and filament 3D printers, making it easier to decide which is right for your needs.
Practical Considerations for 3D Printing
Build Volume and Printing Speed
A filament printer can print large parts and models and has a better workspace for several parts than its resin counterpart.
Printing resin is more compact, but it’s ideal for creating small, intricate models, like small sculptures or fine details.
In general, filament printers take longer to print a design. However, a design’s print speed is determined by the machine’s core settings. Faster prints correlate with thicker layers and less detail. For finer details, F P is more timed. The layers cure quickly, and then resin prints require additional curing.
In this case, filament will be useful when preparing large-scale parts or models. The resin will be helpful when printing intricate details or fine work.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
A filament printer is simple to use, and that makes it ideal for new users. It is easy to switch filaments, and the setup takes only a few minutes.
Wear gloves and masks while handling liquid resins. Wait times are long due to the procurement process and replacement and cleaning of parts.
A good ventilation in the work space is a must. There is toxicity present in resin. Therefore, protective clothing must be worn. More or less filament printers are safer.
With filament printers, you do not need much attention. With resin printers, you do. You choose what suits your level.
Software and Setup Complexity
Filament Printers
A filament printer is simple to use, and that makes it ideal for new users. It is easy to switch filaments, and the setup takes only a few minutes.
Wear gloves and masks while handling liquid resins. Wait times are long due to the procurement process and replacement and cleaning of parts.
A good ventilation in the work space is a must. There is toxicity present in resin. Therefore, protective clothing must be worn. More or less filament printers are safer.
With filament printers, you do not need much attention. With resin printers, you do. You choose what suits your level.
Resin Printers
It is easy to set up and use a resin 3D printer. The application software is not difficult to navigate. Applications such as Lychee Slicer and Chitubox facilitate the modeling process. A lot of printers already have such options, so there is no need to customize them.
Because of its modular design, resin printers have most of their parts assembled already. There are several basic steps to begin printing. Support for automatic leveling optimizes the configuration process. Some printers have instructors or videos that help people get started.
The process of producing 3D prints with resin printers is completely unproblematic and offers high accuracy.
Pros and Cons Summary
Filament 3D Printing
There are some very attractive advantages to FDM technology or filament 3D printing.
Pros:
Durability: The strength and durability of prints make them ideal for parts that must withstand heavy use.
Cost-Effectiveness: As filament printers and materials are relatively inexpensive, it is inexpensive to print many objects.
Large Build Volume: Printing large objects at once is useful for large projects.
Cons:
Visible Layer Lines: The final print may contain visible lines, which require some work to remove.
Maintenance: Filament printers need maintenance like any other tool. Everything from cleaning to replacing parts is time-consuming.
In summary, filament printing is cost-effective and durable, although maintenance will be necessary.
Resin 3D Printing
Resin 3D printing excels at detailed work. Here are some of its main advantages and disadvantages:
Pros:
High Resolution: Jewelry and miniatures can be crafted using resin printers. They achieve incredible levels of detail.
Smooth Finish: A professional finish can be achieved with less effort because the prints appear shiny and well-polished.
Cons:
Smaller Build Volume: In general, these printers are designed for smaller projects. Bulky materials would not be suitable for these printers.
Toxic Materials: You should wear safety gloves and masks when working with liquid resin to prevent any issues.
Take your time and be selective according to your needs when it comes to resin 3D printing. It has excellent resolution but may be limited by volume and safety concerns.
Unique Topics to Add Value
Environmental Impact of 3D Printing Materials
It is good for the environment. 3D printing uses filaments and resins. PLA filament is a renewable resource since it is derived from corn and is biodegradable.
Using recycled filaments reduces the amount of waste going to landfills and conserves resources.
The resin industry is also improving. There are fewer toxic plant-based resins, but there is one major drawback: recycling resin. It is complicated to repurpose.
Printers that reuse end materials are efficient and minimize waste, helping the environment.
Material choice is crucial for sustainable practices in 3D printing. It is important to choose materials that are non-toxic and cheap.
Future Trends in 3D Printing Materials
As 3D printing materials continue to develop, new polymers and composites with elasticity, conductivity, and biocompatibility are appearing.
Aerospace uses these for reducing weight and robust components, and medicine uses them to manufacture specialized implants. The construction industry also benefits. They reduce waste and enable creativity.
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation will increase the progress of 3D printing materials, as well as enhance creativity in many sectors.
FAQ: 3D Printer Resin vs Filament
How do resin and filament differ?
A resin part can be detailed and smooth, while a filament part can be strong and cheaper.
Which is cheaper, resin or filament?
Generally, filament is cheaper than resin. Resin requires more maintenance.
Is resin good for beginners?
For beginners, filament is easier. It is easy to set up and use.
How is the print quality?
Filament can show layer lines, but resin provides a smooth and detailed finish.
Are there safety concerns with resin?
Use protective gear and handle resin carefully. Resin can be toxic.
How to choose between resin and filament?
Resin is best for detail. Filament is best for cost and strength.
Wrapping Up
Both resins and filaments have their advantages and disadvantages, so it really depends on what you need. A resin printout produces a lot of detail and a smooth finish, making it ideal for intricate designs. However, resin is expensive and requires careful handling.
On the other hand, filament is extremely durable, easy to work with, and cost-effective, which makes it perfect for large components. Select based on the type of project, budget, and details required for production. For details, choose resin, and for budget and strength, choose filament.