Not all 3D printing technologies are created equal. The right process depends on how a part will be used, how it needs to perform, and how many units you plan to produce.
Many 3D printing projects begin with physical objects rather than CAD files. In these cases, our scan-to-print workflows allow us to digitize existing parts through high-resolution 3D Scanning Services, creating accurate models ready for additive manufacturing.
This guide provides a clear, side-by-side comparison of the most commonly used professional 3D printing technologies—FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF, PolyJet, and DLSM—to help designers, engineers, artists, and manufacturers make informed decisions.
Quick takeaway:
- Need functional, cost-effective parts? Start with FDM, SLS, or MJF
- Need fine detail or visual realism? Consider SLA or PolyJet
- Need high-performance metal components? DLSM is the answer
Table of Contents
What is the best 3D printing technology?
The best 3D printing technology depends on your goal. If your primary requirement is…
- Durable, low-cost functional parts → FDM
- Smooth surface finish & fine detail → SLA
- Strong, support-free plastic parts → SLS
- Production-ready plastic parts at scale → MJF
- Multi-material, flexible, or full-color parts → PolyJet
- High-strength metal components → DLSM
Master Comparison Table: 3D Printing Technologies
| Technology | Material Type | Best For | Strengths | Limitations | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) | Thermoplastics | Functional prototypes, tooling | Affordable, durable, wide material range | Visible layers, lower detail | Jigs, fixtures, housings, test parts |
| SLA (Stereolithography) | Photopolymer resins (standard + engineering) | High-precision functional & visual parts | Excellent accuracy, smooth finish, fine detail | Higher material cost for functional resins, UV sensitivity | Small mechanical parts, fixtures, housings, medical & technical components |
| SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) | Nylon powders | End-use plastic parts | Strong, isotropic, no supports | Grainy surface, higher cost | Snap-fits, housings, assemblies |
| MJF (Multi Jet Fusion) | Nylon powders | Production-ready plastics | Fast, consistent, durable | Limited material variety | Functional housings, low-volume production |
| PolyJet | Photopolymers (multi-material) | Visual realism & UX testing | Multi-material, full color | Not for long-term mechanical use | Ergonomic models, medical visualization |
| DLSM (Metal Laser Printing) | Metal alloys | High-performance metal parts | Dense, strong, complex geometry | Cost, post-processing required | Aerospace, tooling, metal components |
Technology-by-Technology Breakdown
FDM: Best for Affordable Functional Prototypes
FDM builds parts by extruding melted thermoplastic filament layer by layer. It is widely used for functional testing, fixtures, and low-volume production.
Choose FDM if you need:
✔ Durable thermoplastic parts
✔ Fast turnaround
✔ Cost-effective iteration
SLA: Best for Precision and Surface Quality
SLA uses light to cure liquid resin into solid parts, delivering exceptional surface finish and fine detail. While SLA is often associated with visual prototypes, modern engineering-grade resins make it a reliable choice for functional components suitable for real-world use.
Choose SLA if you need:
✔ Smooth surfaces and tight tolerances
✔ Functional parts made with engineering or high-temperature resins
✔ Small to medium components with fine features
SLS: Best for Strong, Support-Free Plastic Parts
SLS fuses powdered nylon using a laser, allowing for complex geometries without support structures and consistent mechanical properties.
Choose SLS if you need:
✔ End-use plastic parts
✔ Complex internal geometry
✔ Snap-fit or load-bearing designs
MJF: Best for Repeatable Production Parts
MJF uses inkjet agents and heat to fuse nylon powder, producing strong, uniform parts at scale.
Choose MJF if you need:
✔ Low- to mid-volume production
✔ Consistent part quality
✔ Durable housings or assemblies
PolyJet: Best for Visual & Multi-Material Prototypes
PolyJet prints by jetting and curing photopolymers, enabling multi-material, color, and texture simulation in a single build.
Choose PolyJet if you need:
✔ Realistic appearance
✔ Soft-touch or overmold simulation
✔ Ergonomic or UX testing
DLSM: Best for High-Performance Metal Parts
DLSM uses a laser to fuse metal powder into dense, high-strength components suitable for demanding environments.
Choose DLSM if you need:
✔ Structural metal parts
✔ Complex internal channels
✔ Aerospace- or industrial-grade performance
Frequently Asked Questions
Which 3D printing technology is best for functional parts?
It depends on how the part will be used. SLS and MJF are often the defaults for durable end-use plastic parts, but FDM and SLA can also be highly functional with the right materials and design. For metal parts, DLSM is typically the best choice.
→ More on which 3D printing technology is best for functional parts
What is the difference between SLS and MJF?
Both produce strong nylon parts, but MJF offers faster production and more consistent surface quality, while SLS provides greater design freedom in some geometries.
Is FDM suitable for end-use parts?
Yes, for many applications. FDM is commonly used for tooling, fixtures, enclosures, and low-stress functional components, especially when cost efficiency matters.
When should I choose PolyJet over SLA?
Choose PolyJet when you need multiple materials within a single print or a full-color spectrum. Choose SLA when surface finish and dimensional accuracy matter more than material simulation.
Can one project use multiple 3D printing technologies?
Absolutely. Many workflows combine technologies—for example, SLA for design validation and SLS or MJF for final production parts.
How Kemperle Industries Helps You Choose
Selecting the right 3D printing technology isn’t just about the machine—it’s about material behavior, tolerances, finish requirements, and real-world use.
Kemperle Industries provides expert guidance to evaluate your design and recommend the most effective additive manufacturing process for your goals.
→ Explore our full 3D Printing Services
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