What are the 3 types of 3D printing?
There are many types of 3D printing techniques, but the three most common are:
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)
Description: The most common 3D printing technique where a plastic filament (e.g. PLA, ABS or PETG) is melted and laid layer by layer to build a model.
Advantages:
- Cheap and accessible technology
- Suitable for prototypes and functional parts
- Wide range of materials (PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, etc.)
Disadvantages:
- Lower level of detail compared to other methods
- Visible layer lines
- Requires support structures for certain geometries
SLA (Stereolithography) and other resin-based techniques
Description: Uses a UV laser or LCD screen to cure liquid resin (photopolymer) layer by layer, providing very high detail.
Advantages:
- Extremely high precision and smooth surface
- Ideal for small, detailed objects (e.g. jewelry, miniatures, medical models)
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than FDM
- Requires more post-processing (cleaning in IPA and UV curing)
- Materials are often more brittle than FDM plastics
SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)
Description: Uses a laser to fuse powdered material (usually nylon) together layer by layer, creating highly durable and complex parts.
Advantages:
- No need for support structures (the powder acts as a support)
- Very strong and functional parts
- Enables complex geometries
Disadvantages:
- Expensive technology - mostly used in industrial contexts
- Requires advanced post-processing (blasting, coloring)
Executive summary
- FDM - Cheap and easy, good for prototypes and functional parts.
- SLA/DLP - High precision and smooth surfaces, good for detailed models.
- SLS - The strongest and most flexible, perfect for industrial applications.
Which technique is best depends on what you want to print. If you're not sure which material or method is right for your project, our online calculator can help you compare options!