How to Choose Between Filament and Resin 3D Printing

If you’re starting out with 3D printing, or you need to select the best technology for a professional project, you’ve probably asked yourself: Is filament (FDM) 3D printing better, or resin (SLA/MSLA)?

Both are excellent technologies, but they differ greatly in terms of quality, materials, costs, performance, and intended use.

In this updated 2026 guide, we analyse differences, advantages, disadvantages, and use cases so you can make an informed choice: 

• What Is Resin 3D Printing (SLA/MSLA/DLP)?

• What Is Filament 3D Printing (FDM)?

• Direct Comparison: Filament vs Resin

• When to Choose Resin 3D Printing

• When to Choose Filament 3D Printing

• Which Technology Is Better?

• Best Solution for Professional Use

What Is Resin 3D Printing (SLA/MSLA/DLP)?

Resin 3D printing uses UV light (laser, LCD, or projector) to cure a liquid photopolymer resin, creating objects with extremely high surface quality.

How it works:

• the resin is exposed to UV light

• the light selectively cures each layer

• the object is “lifted” from the vat as it grows

Most common resin types:

• Standard (high definition)

• ABS-like (stronger)

• Tough (impact resistant)

• Flame retardant/ High temperature (thermal resistant)

• Ceramic-like (premium matte finish)

Advantages of resin:

• exceptional detail

• smooth, clean surfaces

• ideal for miniatures, modelling and aesthetic objects

• tight tolerances

• excellent reproduction of micro-details

Disadvantages:

• more brittle than technical filaments
• not ideal for large parts
• resin is more expensive
• requires washing, post-curing and proper disposal
• stronger odour and more complex handling

FDM 3D PRINTING: ACCESSIBILITY AND ROBUSTNESS

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) is the most widespread technology worldwide, thanks to the availability of affordable printers and ease of use.

How it works:

• a plastic filament is heated

• extruded through a nozzle

• deposited layer by layer

• the object forms on the build plate

Most commonly used materials:

• PLA (easy, inexpensive, aesthetic)

• ABS (strong, but prone to warping)

• PETG (great all-rounder)

• TPU (flexible)

• Nylon and reinforced fibres (advanced level)

• High performance materials (Peek, ultem)

Advantages of FDM

• very low cost

• wide variety of materials

• perfect for rapid prototyping

• easy to use

Disadvantages:

• visible layer lines

• limited precision

• less smooth surfaces

• strong anisotropy (weak Z-axis)

• requires supports and post-processing

Comparison: Filament vs Resin

Here’s a clear overview of the main differences:

When to Choose Resin 3D Printing

Resin printing is the right choice for:

• Miniatures and models
  Ultra-fine details, complex geometries, smooth surfaces.
• Aesthetic prototypes
  Mock-ups for presentations, exhibitions, design.
• Small high-precision components
  Snap fits, jewellery, micro-parts.
• Objects to paint
  Resin surfaces are ideal for painting and airbrushing.
• Professional quality
  Perfect when aesthetics are the top priority.

When to Choose Filament 3D Printing

FDM is perfect if you want:

• Affordability
  Printers and materials are inexpensive.
• Preliminary prototyping
  Form, fit and ergonomic models.
• Strength or functionality
  With materials like PETG, nylon, carbon fibre, PEEK (professional).
• Plug-and-play printing
  Ideal for makers and small workshops.

Which Technology Is Better?

It depends on the purpose:

Choose FDM if you want:

• low costs

• many materials

• quick prototypes

• strength and functionality

Choose resin if you want:

• perfect surfaces

• very high detail

• miniatures or models

• premium aesthetic prototypes

• high precision

Conclusion:
FDM wins for cost and functionality.
Resin wins for aesthetics and precision.

What’s the Best Solution for Professional Use?

For professional work, the choice depends on the project:

• Design | Modelling: resin

• Mechanical | Functional parts: FDM with technical materials

• Aesthetic prototyping: resin

• Cost-effective production: FDM

• Extreme detail: resin

• Technical strength: Nylon/Carbon FDM or industrial technologies like MJF

Conclusion

Choosing between filament and resin 3D printing depends on the project type, the required level of detail, the desired mechanical properties, and the budget.

Both technologies are excellent, but for different contexts.

Upload your file to Weerg and choose the technology that best suits your project