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The vast majority of hobby printing is FDM (fused deposition modeling — what we've been talking about), but you should know what the other technologies do well so you reach for them when they're the right tool. SLA gives you smooth, miniature-quality surfaces FDM can't match. SLS gives you isotropic functional parts with no supports. Knowing the trade-offs lets you outsource the right job to the right service when needed.
When each technology wins.
Property FDM SLA (Resin) SLS (Powder)
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Hobby entry price $200-$2000 $200-$1500 $5000+ (services only)
Layer thickness 0.08-0.32mm 0.025-0.10mm 0.06-0.12mm
Surface finish Visible layer Smooth/glassy Fine sandpaper
lines (with anti-aliasing)
Anisotropy Strong (weak Mild Almost none
in Z)
Support needed? Often Usually No (powder supports)
Post-process effort Low Wash + UV cure Powder removal
Mess factor Almost none Sticky resin + Lots of powder
IPA washing
Material toxicity Low (PLA fumes) Resin is irritant Powder is inhalation risk
Higher for ABS Wear nitrile gloves Need mask + cabinet
Best for FDM:
- Functional / mechanical parts
- Large prints (≥ 100mm any dimension)
- Anything you'll throw in a drawer and forget
- Prototyping new CAD models cheaply
Best for SLA:
- Miniatures, dental, jewelry
- Small parts needing very fine detail
- Smooth aesthetic surfaces
- Functional fluidic / optical parts where surface matters
Best for SLS:
- Production-grade nylon parts
- Complex geometries with internal channels (no supports!)
- Functional snap-fits and living hinges at scale
- Outsource: JLCPCB MJF, Shapeways SLS, Sculpteo