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Whether you’re exploring an FDM printer for quick prototypes or considering an SLA 3D printer for finer detail, knowing the key differences between these two technologies is crucial. If you are instead looking for a complete service provider, explore our online 3D printing services in the UK for instant quotes and fast turnaround. Learn more about the technologies we offer. Understanding these differences early will help you choose the right setup for your workspace, budget, and output needs.
FDM printing builds objects layer by layer using melted thermoplastic filament. The filament is extruded through a heated nozzle, depositing material along pre-defined toolpaths. It’s one of the most accessible technologies on the market.
Field insight: FDM’s popularity stems from its low setup cost and ease of use, especially for functional parts or quick iterations.
For a detailed comparison of FDM with other 3D printing technologies like SLA and SLS, you can read Formlabs’ comprehensive guide here. You can also read our full UK 3D printing service options guide to understand which processes suit industrial applications.
An SLA 3D printer cures liquid resin using a UV laser or light source, solidifying precise layers in a vat. The resulting parts have excellent surface finish and dimensional accuracy, making this method ideal for intricate designs.
Field insight: While SLA requires more post-processing, the detail achieved from a resin 3D printer makes it invaluable for models requiring crisp edges and smooth finishes.
For a more in-depth look at SLA 3D printing, you can visit Formlabs’ comprehensive guide here.
FDM tends to produce visible layer lines, especially at lower resolutions. However, it’s sufficient for mechanical parts, jigs, or draft models where cosmetic finish isn’t a priority.
SLA excels in resolution and surface finish, with layer heights as fine as 25 microns. This precision is vital for dental models, miniature figures, or mould patterns.
A hobbyist designing tabletop game pieces used FDM to prototype shapes but switched to an SLA 3D printer for the final production, achieving far superior detail in the faces and armour textures.
Compatible with PLA, ABS, PETG, and carbon-fibre composites. Filaments are widely available and low cost, typically £15–£40 per spool with specialist materials costing upwards of £500+ a spool.
Uses UV-curable photopolymer resin, which varies in mechanical properties and colour. Resins are more expensive (£35–£280 per litre) and require safe handling.
FDM parts usually need minimal post-processing beyond support removal and surface smoothing.
SLA parts require alcohol rinsing, UV curing, and careful handling due to resin sensitivity. While more time-consuming, the results justify the effort for appearance-critical models.
Many hobbyists underestimate SLA’s cleanup time. Factoring this into project timelines avoids bottlenecks, especially for batch jobs.
Low-end FDM printers start at £150, capable of printing simple models in basic materials (PLA, PETG, only) and require occasional nozzle cleaning and bed levelling. Replacement parts are cheap and easy to source.
Low-end SLA printers start around £250, but maintenance includes resin tank replacements, LCD replacement, optics cleaning, and consumable resins. These lower-end solutions aren’t user-friendly and usually involve workarounds which don’t meet industry standard safe working practices.
You prioritise affordability and speed
Your parts are functional, not aesthetic
You’re printing large models or mechanical assemblies
You need high detail and smooth finishes
You’re making small, intricate parts
You value accuracy over speed
| Feature | FDM | SLA |
|---|---|---|
| Detail Level | Moderate | High |
| Surface Finish | Textured | Smooth |
| Print Speed | Fast | Slower |
| Cost (Printer + Material) | Lower | Higher |
| Post-Processing | Easy | Complex |
| Best For | Functional parts | Visual models |
FDM printing is the most budget-friendly 3D printing option. Entry-level machines start as low as £150, and filament costs are significantly cheaper than resin. It’s ideal for hobbyists, students, and anyone testing initial concepts.
Yes, SLA 3D printers are more accurate than FDM for prints requiring fine detail. SLA can achieve layer heights down to 25 microns with smoother surfaces and crisper edges, making it the preferred method for jewellery, miniatures, and dental models.
You can use a resin 3D printer for functional parts, but material limitations apply. Standard resins are more brittle than thermoplastics used in FDM. However, engineering-grade resins are available for higher strength and heat resistance.
FDM printing is better for rapid prototyping in most cases. It’s faster, cheaper, and sufficient for fit, form, or basic mechanical testing. SLA is better suited when the prototype demands cosmetic accuracy or fine geometries.
SLA prints typically offer higher resolution and detail but are often more brittle than FDM prints. Standard SLA resins are ideal for presentation models or low-load parts, while FDM’s thermoplastics (like ABS or PETG) hold up better to mechanical stress and repeated handling. For functional parts exposed to wear or pressure, FDM generally performs better — unless advanced engineering resins are used in SLA.
SLA printing is widely used in dentistry, jewellery, and prototyping where accuracy is vital. FDM, meanwhile, is favoured in manufacturing, education, and for creating jigs or fixtures. Many businesses now combine both to balance cost, speed, and part performance. For a broader overview of available UK 3D printing service options, see how different technologies can be matched to your application needs.
Explore our full range of 3D Printing Services to see how SLA and FDM technologies can support your project.
Want to understand more about the different Technologies we offer? We break down capabilities, materials, and use cases in detail.
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