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.