Here is the plain-English comparison of the three most common 3D printing methods.
What you can order here: every verified maker on 3D Hub Plus prints FDM, resin (SLA/MSLA), or both. The SLS section below is general reference for people comparing processes — we do not currently have SLS, MJF or metal capacity, and we will not take an order we cannot fulfil.
FDM — Fused Deposition Modeling
Extrudes molten plastic layer by layer through a heated nozzle.
- Best for: functional prototypes, brackets, enclosures, large parts, anything where cost matters more than cosmetic finish
- Tolerance: ±0.3 mm typical, ±0.1 mm on tuned machines
- Layer lines: visible (0.1–0.3 mm)
- Cost: $ (lowest)
- Common materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, nylon, polycarbonate
- Watch out for: anisotropy (parts are weaker along the layer direction), overhangs need support
SLA / MSLA — Stereolithography / Masked SLA
Cures liquid resin layer by layer with a UV laser or masked LCD.
- Best for: fine detail, smooth surfaces, miniatures, dental models, jewelry masters, visual prototypes
- Tolerance: ±0.1 mm
- Layer lines: nearly invisible (0.025–0.1 mm)
- Cost: $$
- Common materials: standard, tough, flexible, dental, high-temp resins
- Watch out for: parts are brittle compared to FDM, degrade in UV sunlight, need alcohol wash + UV post-cure
SLS — Selective Laser Sintering (reference only — not offered here)
Fuses nylon powder with a laser, no support structures needed.
- Best for: production-ready end-use parts, complex geometries, snap-fits, living hinges, interlocking assemblies
- Tolerance: ±0.3 mm
- Surface: matte, slightly grainy (typical Ra 6–8 μm)
- Cost: $$$
- Common materials: PA12 (nylon), glass-filled nylon, TPU
- Watch out for: minimum order value is higher (build chamber economics), powder can be porous
Quick decision tree
- "I need it cheap and functional" → FDM
- "I need it to look good or have fine features" → resin (SLA)
- "I'm printing 1 part for visual review" → resin (SLA)
- "I'm printing 100 of the same bracket" → FDM
- "I need strong, isotropic, end-use parts" → SLS, which means a powder bureau rather than this platform
Still unsure? Upload the file and request quotes in FDM and resin — the numbers will usually make the choice for you.