3D Printing is becoming very liked today. Many people use it for models, toys, tools, machines, and even professional products. Such as many beginners get concerned about the two main types of 3D Printing: resin printing and filament printing. Both are very useful, but they are very different from each other.
But in this guide, you will learn Resin vs Filament 3D Printing in very simple and easy words. And this will help you understand which one is better for your work and why companies like AIXI 3D Printing Manufacturing use both methods.
What Is Resin 3D Printing?
Let me explain. Resin is a liquid that is used in resin 3D printing. And also when this resin is exposed to a particular light, it hardens.
Inside the liquid, the printer constructs the object layer by layer. The model slowly emerges from the resin tank.
The results of resin printing are incredibly smooth and clean. It works well for intricate and small pieces.
Main Points About Resin Printing
- Uses liquid resin
- Gives very great detail
- Very smooth surface
- Best for tiny and complex models
- Needs cleaning and curing
- Can be messy
Such as Resin printing is like creating a small art piece with perfect accuracy.
What Is Filament 3D Printing?
Normally, A solid plastic wire, known as a filament, is used in filament printing. Also, in order to construct the model, the printer melts this wire and applies it in small layers.
Usually, Filament printers are basic, inexpensive, and user-friendly. Both novices and experts love them.
Main Points About Filament Printing
- Uses solid plastic
- Suitable for substantial parts
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Good for practical items
Filament printing is like building something with melted plastic step by step.
Key Differences: Resin vs Filament 3D Printing
Now, the point is, let’s understand the main differences in a very simple way.
1. Material Type
Resin is a liquid. Filament is a solid wire.
This is the biggest difference between the two.
2. Print Quality
Resin gives very high-quality prints. The details are sharp and smooth, even in very small parts.
Filament prints look a little rough. You can see small lines on the surface because the plastic is laid layer by layer.
Resin is best for beauty and detail. Filament is best for everyday and strong items.
3. Strength
Filament prints are usually stronger and more durable. They can handle heavy use.
Resin prints look beautiful but can break easily if dropped or bent.
So if you need strong parts, filament is a better choice.
4. Size of Prints
Resin printers are usually small. They are great for jewelry, miniatures, dental parts, and tiny objects.
Filament printers can make small and large items. And they can print large prototypes and functional machine parts.
If you want to print big objects, filament printing is better.
5. Printing Speed
Filament printers are fast when printing big objects.
Like Resin printers can be fast for small items, but become slow when the model is tall.
If speed is important, filament printing is usually easier.
6. Cleaning and Finishing
Resin printing needs more cleaning. You must wash the model in alcohol. Then you must cure it with UV light.
Filament prints do not need much cleaning. Sometimes you only need a slight sanding. Overall, it is simpler and cleaner.
7. Safety
Resin has chemicals. It can smell strong and can ennoy the skin. You must use gloves and work in a place with good air flow.
Filament is safe. Most filaments do not smell and are easy to touch.
If you want something safe and simple, then filament printing is good.
8. Cost
Such as Resin printers are more expensive, and the resin bottles also cost more.
Filament printers and filaments are cheaper. And that is why many beginners start with filament.
Which One Should You Choose?
Like Choosing between resin and filament depends on your needs.
Choose Resin 3D Printing if:
- You want very great detail
- You need smooth surfaces
- You make jewelry models
- You make dental tools
- You make small and complex designs
Resin prints look very professional.
Choose Filament 3D Printing if:
- You want strong parts
- You want big prints
- You want fast results
- You want low-cost printing
- You want easy and safe use
- You print mechanical or functional parts
Filament prints are perfect for daily use and strong items.
How Companies Use Both Types
Many professional companies, including AIXI 3D Printing Manufacturing, use both resin and filament printing. This helps them meet different customer needs.
Why Resin Is Used in Industry
- Dental work
- Jewelry molds
- High-detail prototypes
- Figures and models
- Smooth surface products
These items need fine details, so resin works best.
Why Filament Is Used in Industry
- Machine parts
- Large prototypes
- Tools and fixtures
- Custom housings
- Functional parts
These products need strength and bigger sizes, so filament is better.
Using both gives the best balance of quality, detail, size, and strength.
Final Words
Such as Understanding Resin vs Filament 3D Printing helps you choose the proper method for your project, and Resin printing gives exceptional detail and beauty. In contrast, filament printing gives strength and large sizes.
Both are useful. Both are so powerful. And you just need to select the one that matches your needs.