Resin 3D Printer vs Filament

Resin 3D Printer vs Filament

Resin 3D Printer vs Filament: A Side-by-Side Analysis

3D printing has opened up a realm of possibilities, revolutionizing industries and hobbyist projects alike. Two prominent contenders in this space are resin and filament printers, each offering distinct advantages and characteristics.

This guide will help you find your way through the complex path of choosing between a resin 3D printer and a filament 3D printer. We'll talk about everything about the filament vs resin 3D printer, from the introduction of each type as well as their pros and cons to the often-debated topic of resin vs filament 3D printer strength, so you can make an informed decision.

What Is Resin 3D Printing?

Resin 3D printing, also known as stereolithography (SLA), is a method that uses liquid resin as the printing material. The process involves a UV laser that solidifies the resin layer by layer to create a 3D object. Here's a quick rundown:

  • UV Laser Technology: A high-precision laser traces the design on the resin surface.
  • High Detail: Capable of capturing intricate details, making it ideal for jewelry, dental models, and prototypes.
  • Layer Thickness: Usually ranges from 25 to 100 microns, offering high-resolution prints.
  • Material: Uses photopolymer resin, which comes in various types like standard, tough, flexible, and castable.
  • Post-processing: Requires washing and curing to remove excess resin and fully harden the model.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • High resolution and detail
    • Smooth surface finish
    • Variety of resin types
  • Cons
    • Limited build volume
    • Post-processing needed
    • Higher material cost

What Is Filament 3D Printing?

Filament 3D printing, commonly known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) or Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), uses a spool of thermoplastic filament. The filament is melted and extruded through a nozzle to build the object layer by layer. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Extrusion Nozzle: Melts and deposits the filament.
  • Material: Uses a variety of filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, and more.
  • Build Plate: Where the object is built. Usually heated to improve adhesion.
  • Layer Thickness: Ranges from 100 to 400 microns, generally less detailed than resin printing.

Pros and Cons

  • Pros
    • Larger build volume
    • Easier to use
    • More material options
  • Cons
    • Lower resolution
    • Possible layer lines
    • Calibration required

If you are looking for high-quality filament 3D printing, you won't regret checking out the AnkerMake M5 3D Printer and AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer.

They are worth considering for filament 3D printing due to their impressive speed, precision, and user-friendly features. The AnkerMake M5 3D Printer offers a remarkable speed of 500 mm/s while maintaining a fine detail of 0.1 mm, ensuring fast and precise prints. Its built-in AI camera acts as a quality control manager, and it functions as a productivity hub for managing multiple devices. On the other hand, the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer combines ease of use with high-speed printing and precision, featuring a one-click button for customization and a 7x7 auto-leveling system that simplifies the printing process. These printers provide a compelling combination of performance and user-friendliness for filament 3D printing enthusiasts.

Comparison Between Resin and Filament 3D Printer

You've got the basics down for both resin and filament 3D printing. Now let's compare these two technologies across various factors to help you make an informed decision.

Whether it's resin vs filament 3D printing speed or resin vs filament price, we've got you covered.

Ease Of Use

Resin 3D Printer

  • Calibration: Usually automated but can be tricky for beginners.
  • Post-Processing: Mandatory. Involves washing and curing.
  • Learning Curve: Steeper, especially if you're new to 3D

Filament 3D Printer

  • Calibration: Generally easier, with many printers offering auto-calibration.
  • Post-Processing: Minimal. Sometimes, just a bit of sanding is needed.
  • Learning Curve: More beginner-friendly.

Verdict: If you're just starting out, a filament 3D printer might be more up your alley.

Pricing

Resin 3D Printer

  • Initial Cost: Generally higher.
  • Material Cost: Resin can be expensive, especially specialized types.
  • Running Costs: Additional costs for cleaning solutions and protective gear.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Initial Cost: More budget-friendly options are available.
  • Material Cost: Filament is generally cheaper.
  • Running Costs: Lower, especially if you opt for a model like the AnkerMake M5C 3DPrinter with its efficient extrusion flow.

Verdict: In the 3D printer resin vs filament cost comparison, for a cost-effective start, filament 3D printers win the round.

Print Quality

Resin 3D Printer

  • Detail: Exceptionally high. Think jewelry and dental models.
  • Surface Finish: Smooth, almost injection mold quality.
  • Layer Lines: Barely visible, if at all.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Detail: Good, but generally not as fine as resin.
  • Surface Finish: May show layer lines.
  • Layer Lines: More visible, but can be minimized with settings and post-processing.

Verdict: If quality is your top priority, resin is the way to go.

Printing Speed

Resin 3D Printer

  • Speed: Generally slower due to layer-by-layer curing.
  • Batch Printing: Faster if printing multiple small items in a single layer.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Speed: Faster for larger items. The AnkerMake M5 3DPrinter boasts a speed of 500 mm/s.
  • Batch Printing: Speed varies, but is generally not as efficient as resin for multiple small items.

Verdict: In the resin vs filament 3D printer speed comparison, filament takes the cake, especially with high-speed models available.

Maintenance

Resin 3D Printer

  • Cleaning: Frequent and meticulous—resin spills are a no-go.
  • Part Replacement: Resin tanks and build plates may need periodic replacement.
  • Ventilation: Proper ventilation or filtration system is often required.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Cleaning: Less frequent. A nozzle cleaning now and then.
  • Part Replacement: Mostly just the nozzle and perhaps the build plate.
  • Ventilation: Generally not required unless printing with specific materials like ABS.

Verdict: If you're not a fan of frequent upkeep, filament 3D printers are less demanding.

Printed Part Durability

Resin 3D Printer

  • Strength: Generally more brittle, especially with standard resins.
  • Flexibility: Limited. Specialized resins are needed for flexible parts.
  • Longevity: UV exposure can weaken the parts over time.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Strength: More robust, especially with materials like PETG and ABS.
  • Flexibility: Materials like TPU offer flexibility.
  • Longevity: Generally longer-lasting and more durable.

Verdict: When it comes to resin vs filament strength, filament generally takes the trophy.

Build Volume

Resin 3D Printer

  • Size: Typically smaller build volumes.
  • Scalability: Limited. Not ideal for large projects.
  • Batch Printing: Efficient for multiple small parts in one go.

Filament 3D Printer

  • Size: Larger build volumes, especially in models like the AnkerMake M5 3DPrinter with a print volume of 235×235×250 mm³.
  • Scalability: More suitable for larger projects.
  • Batch Printing: Possible but less efficient for small parts compared to resin.

Verdict: If size matters to you, filament 3D printers offer more room to play.

Conclusion

After delving into the contrasting worlds of 3D printer filament vs resin, it's evident that each offers unique advantages tailored to different needs. If high-detail, intricate designs are what you seek and you're prepared to embrace a steeper learning curve, higher initial expenses, and dedicated post-processing, then a resin 3D printer is your go-to. On the other hand, if you're just venturing into the 3D printing realm and prioritizing user-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and the creation of larger, durable components, a filament 3D printer would serve you best. Ultimately, the decision between resin and filament hinges on your specific requirements and what you're ready to prioritize. Both avenues offer compelling benefits; the key is to align your choice with your intended application and preferences.

FAQ

Is it okay to use a resin 3D printer inside?

When it comes to using a resin 3D printer indoors, ventilation is key. These printers often emit fumes that can be harmful in enclosed spaces. Some modern resin printers come with built-in filtration systems, which can be a good alternative if you're limited in space.

Is filament stronger than resin 3D print?

The question of strength in the resin vs filament 3D print debate leans towards filament. Materials like PETG and ABS used in filament 3D printing are generally more robust and durable than standard resins.

While specialized resins do exist for strength, they often come at a higher price point.

So, if you're looking for stronger and more durable 3D printed parts, filament is generally the better option.

What are the downsides of using a resin 3D printer?

Resin 3D printers offer exceptional detail and smooth surface finishes, but they also come with downsides. Firstly, they are generally more expensive than filament printers, both in terms of the initial cost of the printer and ongoing expenses for resin material. Secondly, the print volume tends to be smaller compared to filament printers, limiting the size of objects you can create. Lastly, post-processing resin prints involves UV curing and the removal of excess resin, which can be a time-consuming process.

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