▷ Discover the Different Types of 3D Printing

Bottiglia di resina UV e bobina di filamento Anycubic blu - Mr Resin

Types of 3D Printing: Technologies, Applications and the Future

3D printing has revolutionised the world of manufacturing, but not all printers work the same way! There are different types of 3D printing, each with its own advantages, materials and specific applications. If you've ever wondered which technology is best for your project, this guide is for you.

Main 3D Printing Technologies

There are several 3D printing technologies, and each uses a different method to build objects layer by layer. Some are perfect for beginners, others are suited to industrial prototypes or parts requiring a high level of detail.

Let's take a look at the most important 3D printing methods on the market:

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling)

Anycubic Kobra 3 multicolour FDM printer front view - Mr Resin

How it works and key features

The printer melts a plastic filament (such as PLA or PETG) and deposits it layer by layer to build the object. It is the most popular type of 3D printing available.

Materials used

PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, Nylon, and more.
Discover the types of 3D printer filament

Pros and cons

Pros: affordable, accessible, ideal for functional parts and prototypes.
Cons: lower resolution and surface finish compared to other techniques.

SLA (Stereolithography)

Resin printer pulling a part off the build plate timelapse - Mr Resin

Printing process and key features

Uses a photocurable liquid resin that hardens under ultraviolet light (typically a laser or LCD screen). This technology delivers outstanding precision and detail.

Types of resin used

Standard resins, high-strength resins, castable, flexible, and high-definition resins. See resin for 3D printers

Common applications

Miniatures, jewellery, dental parts, detailed models, moulds and visual prototypes. It is one of the 3D printing techniques most popular among those who demand fine detail.

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering)

Part printed with SLS selective laser sintering technology - Mr Resin

Process overview and compatible materials

A laser sinters (fuses) powdered material (typically plastic) layer by layer. No support structures are required.

Benefits and limitations

Advantages: strong, detailed parts with no support structures required.
Disadvantages: expensive equipment and a more complex working environment. Mainly used in industrial settings.

Other notable 3D printing technologies

Diagrama explicativo de como funciona la impresion 3D DLP - Mr Resin

PolyJet, DLP, EBM, and more

  • DLP: Similar to SLA but uses a projector instead of a laser. Faster print times.

  • PolyJet: Jets thin layers of resin cured with UV light. Supports multi-material and full-colour printing.

  • EBM: (Electron Beam Melting) Uses electron beams to fuse metal powder. Designed for highly advanced industrial applications.

These 3D printing technologies are growing in popularity across sectors such as medicine, aerospace, and jewellery.

Conclusion: Which 3D printing type should you choose?

There's no single right answer — it all depends on your goals:

  • FDM: ideal for beginners, functional parts, and budget-friendly printing.
  • SLA: best for fine detail and high-precision models.
  • SLS: great for durable parts and complex geometries without supports.
  • Others: when you need special finishes, multiple colours, or metal parts.

Browse our 3D printing materials, pick your technology and...

✨ Happy Printing! 🚀