FDM vs SLA vs MJF — the complete 3D printing technology comparison.
FDM, SLA, and MJF are the three most widely used 3D printing technologies — and we offer all three. Each excels at different things: FDM is the fastest and most affordable, SLA delivers the best precision and surface finish, and MJF produces the strongest production-grade parts. Most projects use at least two of these technologies across their development lifecycle.
FDM
SLA
MJF
Specifications
Head-to-head comparison
| Spec | FDM | SLA | MJF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tolerances | ±0.5mm | ±0.2mm | ±0.3mm |
| Layer height | 0.1-0.3mm | 0.025-0.1mm | 0.08mm |
| Min wall thickness | 1.2mm | 0.8mm | 0.7mm |
| Max build size | 360 x 360 x 360mm | 335 x 200 x 300mm | 380 x 284 x 380mm |
| Lead time | From 1 business day | From 2 business days | From 5 business days |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, TPU, ASA, PC CF | Standard Resin, Grey Pro Resin, Durable Resin, Tough 2K, Tough 1500, Rigid 4K, Rigid 10K, High Temp, Flexible, Elastic, Castable | Nylon PA12, Nylon PA11, Nylon PA12 Glass Filled |
| Best for | Jigs & fixtures, Functional prototypes, Concept models, Large-format parts, Cost-sensitive runs | Visual prototypes, Medical models, Casting patterns, High-detail parts, Presentation models | End-use production parts, Production runs, Complex geometries, Automotive components, Aerospace hardware |
Our recommendation
Start with FDM for early concepts ($, fast). Move to SLA for precision prototyping ($$, accurate). Scale to MJF for production ($$$, strong). This progression — from cheap-and-fast to production-grade — is how most successful hardware programs move through our shop.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which 3D printing technology should I start with?
Start with FDM for early concept models and form-factor checks — it is the fastest (from 1 business day) and cheapest option. Move to SLA when you need ±0.2mm precision for snap-fit validation. Scale to MJF for production runs of 50+ parts.
What are the tolerances for FDM, SLA, and MJF?
FDM: ±0.5mm. SLA: ±0.2mm. MJF: ±0.3mm. SLA is the most precise, FDM is the least. Choose based on your dimensional requirements and budget.
Which technology has the most material options?
SLA offers the most variety with 11 resins (tough, flexible, elastic, castable, high-temp, rigid, clear). FDM offers 5 engineering thermoplastics. MJF offers 3 production nylons. Total across all platforms: 23 materials.
Can I use all three technologies on the same project?
Yes — this is common. Many hardware programs start with FDM for cheap concept models, use SLA for precision prototyping and client presentations, then scale to MJF for production. Makelab runs all three under one roof.
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