SLA vs FDM vs MJF — Which 3D Printing Method Should I Choose?

1. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)

Best for: Prototypes, functional testing, cost-sensitive projects

• Layer lines visible (can be sanded/smoothed)

• Materials: PLA, PETG, ASA

• Tolerance: ± 1 layer thickness first inch, ±0.002”/inch thereafter

• Min wall: 0.8mm

• Max build: 360 x 360 x 360mm

• Most cost-effective per-part

2. SLA (Stereolithography)

Best for: High-detail models, smooth surfaces, presentation prototypes, small intricate parts

• Smooth surface finish, minimal layer lines

• Materials: Standard Resin, Draft Resin, Tough 2000, Flexible, Elastic, Rigid 4K, High Temp, Castable Wax, Durable, Grey Pro

• Tolerance: ±0.010” or ±0.002”/inch (whichever greater)

• Max build: 335 x 200 x 300mm (Form 3L)

• UV-sensitive — not ideal for prolonged outdoor use

3. Industrial SLA

Best for: Large-format high-detail parts, tooling, molds, architectural models

• Same smooth finish as standard SLA at much larger scale

• Max build: 1000 x 1000 x 600mm

• Ideal for parts too large for the Form 3L

4. MJF (Multi Jet Fusion — HP)

Best for: Functional end-use parts, moving assemblies, living hinges, small batch production

• No support structures needed (powder supports the part)

• Consistent mechanical properties in all directions

• Materials: Nylon PA 12

• Tolerance: ±0.012” first inch + 0.1% nominal

• Max build: 380 x 284 x 380mm

• Ideal for production runs of 50–500+ units

5. FGF (Fused Granulate Fabrication)

Best for: Very large parts, furniture, fixtures, architectural elements, industrial tooling

• Largest build volume available at Makelab

• Uses plastic pellets instead of filament (lower material cost at scale)

• Min wall: 3mm

• Max build: 1800 x 1200 x 1100mm

• Visible layer lines (larger nozzle for speed)

• Best for parts where size matters more than fine detail

6. Still Not Sure?

Select “Tech’s Choice” when ordering and our engineers will pick the best technology based on your part geometry, requirements, and budget. Or contact our team for a consultation.

7. All Technologies Available at Makelab

Makelab offers FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, and PolyJet 3D printing services from our Brooklyn, NYC facility. Not sure which technology is right for your project? Select "Tech's Choice" when ordering and our engineers will recommend the best option. Get an instant quote.

Compare technologies side-by-side: View all comparisons on makelab.com/compare