Standard tolerances at Makelab depend on the technology: FDM ±0.5mm, SLA ±0.2mm, Industrial SLA ±0.2mm, MJF ±0.3mm, and FGF ±1.0mm. SLA and Industrial SLA hold the tightest tolerances; FGF trades accuracy for very large build sizes.
Standard tolerances by technology
FDM: ±0.5mm
SLA: ±0.2mm
Industrial SLA: ±0.2mm
MJF: ±0.3mm
FGF: ±1.0mm
Actual accuracy varies with part size, geometry, orientation, and material. For minimum wall thickness by technology, see Wall thickness guidelines.
What affects accuracy?
Part size — Larger parts have more room for thermal warping and shrinkage. A 1-inch part will be more accurate than a 12-inch part in absolute terms.
Material — Some materials shrink more during cooling or curing than others.
Geometry — Flat surfaces and sharp corners are more prone to warping. Rounded features maintain accuracy better.
Orientation — Z-axis (vertical) resolution is determined by layer height. XY resolution is determined by the laser/nozzle precision.
Supports and post-processing — Support removal can affect contact points, and sanding or coating reduces precision.
Environment — Humidity and temperature can affect some materials.
Tips for tight tolerances
Use SLA or Industrial SLA for the tightest tolerances
Specify critical dimensions in your order notes and tell us your tolerance requirements when quoting; our team can optimize orientation, support placement, and material selection
Add 0.2–0.3mm clearance for mating parts
Request a test print before large orders
Provide 2D drawings with GD&T callouts for critical features
What we guarantee
Makelab inspects every part against standard tolerances for the chosen technology. If a dimension falls outside the standard tolerance range, we'll reprint at no cost.
For tighter-than-standard tolerances, specify your requirements when ordering and we'll confirm feasibility before production. If you consistently need tolerances tighter than 3D printing can hold, CNC machining may suit your critical dimensions better; Makelab does not offer CNC machining.
Makelab is a professional 3D printing service in Brooklyn, NYC. Our engineers review every file for printability and can help optimize your design. Get an instant quote.
Learn more on our website:
Full Design Guidelines — comprehensive rules by technology
File Requirements — formats, mesh settings, export tips
Browse Materials — find the right material for your application