Resin 3D Printer vs Filament: Which is Better?

3D printing has transformed from a futuristic concept into a widely accessible technology for hobbyists, professionals, and manufacturers. If you’re just stepping into the world of 3D printing, you’ll quickly notice two major categories of machines: resin printers (SLA/DLP/MSLA) and filament printers (FDM/FFF).

Both technologies have their strengths, limitations, and ideal use cases. Choosing between a resin 3D printer and a filament 3D printer depends on what you want to print, your budget, and your tolerance for post-processing work.

This article explores the differences between resin and filament 3D printers, compares their advantages and disadvantages, and helps you decide which one might be better for your needs.

What is a Resin 3D Printer?

Resin printers use liquid photopolymer resin, which hardens when exposed to UV light. The most common types are:

• SLA (Stereolithography) – uses a laser to cure resin.

• DLP (Digital Light Processing) – uses a projector to cure entire layers at once.

• MSLA (Masked SLA) – uses an LCD screen with UV light to cure resin selectively.

These machines are known for their extremely high detail and smooth surfaces, making them popular in jewelry, dentistry, and miniatures.

What is a Filament 3D Printer?

Filament printers, also called FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) or FFF (Fused Filament Fabrication), melt a thermoplastic filament (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc.) and deposit it layer by layer to create an object.

FDM printers are widely used because they are affordable, versatile, and easy to maintain, making them the go-to choice for hobbyists and functional part makers.

Resin vs Filament: Key Comparisons

1. Print Quality & Detail

• Resin Printers: Offer far superior resolution, capable of capturing tiny details and smooth surfaces. Perfect for miniatures, figurines, dental models, and jewelry.

• Filament Printers: Good for functional parts but layer lines are more visible. Complex details and smooth finishes require post-processing like sanding or smoothing.

Winner: Resin printers (for visual detail).

2. Build Volume

• Resin Printers: Usually have smaller build volumes, typically limited to desktop sizes. Printing large objects requires splitting models into parts.

• Filament Printers: Come in a wide range of sizes, from small hobby machines to large-format printers capable of producing big functional items.

Winner: Filament printers (for large objects).

3. Ease of Use

• Resin Printers: Require more preparation and messy post-processing (washing prints in isopropyl alcohol, curing under UV light, handling toxic resins safely).

• Filament Printers: Easier for beginners—just load the filament, level the bed, and print. Maintenance is straightforward compared to resin machines.

Winner: Filament printers (for beginners).

4. Strength and Durability of Prints

• Resin Printers: Prints can be brittle unless you use specialty resins (tough or flexible resins). Standard resin is not ideal for functional load-bearing parts.

• Filament Printers: Prints are generally stronger and more durable, especially when using materials like ABS, PETG, or Nylon. Great for mechanical and functional components.

Winner: Filament printers (for strength and utility).

5. Cost of Printing

• Resin Printers: The machines themselves are affordable (entry-level resin printers start under $200), but resin is relatively expensive and consumables (gloves, cleaning alcohol, curing stations) add up.

• Filament Printers: Slightly higher upfront cost for the printer, but filament is cheaper, widely available, and less wasteful.

Winner: Filament printers (for ongoing cost).

6. Speed

• Resin Printers: Surprisingly fast for small, detailed objects, since layers are cured across the whole build plate at once. However, large prints take a long time due to post-processing.

• Filament Printers: Generally slower for high-detail prints, but can produce large, low-detail objects faster than resin printers.

Winner: Tie (depends on object size and detail level).

7. Safety and Cleanliness

• Resin Printers: Require strict handling precautions. Liquid resin is toxic and needs gloves, masks, and proper ventilation. Waste disposal is also more complicated.

• Filament Printers: Safer and cleaner to use. Some filaments (like ABS) release fumes, so ventilation is recommended, but they're much easier to manage than resin.

Winner: Filament printers (for safety).

When to Choose a Resin Printer

A resin printer is the right choice if you:

• Want ultra-high detail and smooth surfaces.

• Print miniatures, jewelry, or artistic models.

• Work in dental or medical modeling.

• Don't mind the extra post-processing steps.

Best for: Hobbyists into detailed models, professionals needing precision.

When to Choose a Filament Printer

A filament printer is the right choice if you:

• Want functional, strong, and large parts.

• Need quick, everyday printing for practical use.

• Prefer a cleaner, beginner-friendly experience.

• Want lower material costs over time.

Best for: Beginners, makers, engineers, and hobbyists who prioritize function over aesthetics.

Hybrid Approach: Owning Both

Some enthusiasts eventually invest in both types of printers—using filament printers for large, strong, functional parts, and resin printers for high-detail or aesthetic projects. If your budget allows, this combination provides the most flexibility.

Conclusion

So, resin vs filament— which is better?

• If you value detail, precision, and aesthetics, go for a resin printer.

• If you need strength, size, and practicality, choose a filament printer.

Ultimately, neither technology is “better” overall—it’s about choosing the right tool for your goals. For most beginners, a filament printer is the ideal starting point because it's easier, safer, and more versatile. Resin printers shine when you're ready to dive into high-detail artistry or specialized professional applications.