FDM vs Resin 3D Printer
FDM printers are cleaner and better for larger, practical parts. Resin printers give remarkable detail but involve chemicals and post-processing.
| FDM | Resin | |
|---|---|---|
| Detail | Visible layer lines | Very fine detail |
| Build size | Larger for the price | Smaller |
| Materials | Solid filament spools | Liquid resin |
| Safety | Low hassle, ventilate for ABS | Gloves, ventilation, careful handling |
| Post-processing | Remove supports | Wash, cure, remove supports |
| Best for | Functional parts, prototypes, cosplay | Miniatures, jewelry, dental models |
Choose FDM if
- You want practical, larger parts
- You print in a shared living space
- You want the simplest workflow
Choose Resin if
- You print tabletop miniatures
- Fine detail is essential
- You have a ventilated work area
The bottom line
Most people should start with FDM. Choose resin when miniature-level detail is the whole point and you can handle it safely.