3D Printing Comparisons

FDM melts plastic filament layer by layer; SLA cures liquid resin with a laser. FDM is the workhorse for tough, functional and larger parts; SLA wins on fine detail and smooth surfaces.

FDM extrudes filament with support structures; SLS sinters nylon powder with a laser and needs no supports. SLS produces stronger, more isotropic production-grade parts; FDM is cheaper for one-offs.

Both cure resin, but SLA traces each layer with a laser point while DLP flashes a whole layer with a projector. DLP is often faster per layer; SLA can edge ahead on large-area accuracy.

PLA and ABS are the two most common FDM filaments. PLA is easy to print, rigid and biodegradable; ABS is tougher and heat-resistant but harder to print and prone to warping.

PLA is the easiest filament to print and great for detail; PETG adds toughness, flexibility and water/chemical resistance while staying relatively easy to print — a popular middle ground.