Is Resin or Filament Better for 3D Printing?

Are you confused about choosing between resin or filament for 3D printing? You're not alone. Picking one of the two options is not straightforward, especially if you are a beginner in the 3D printing community.

Almost every newcomer asks this question, is resin or filament better for 3d printing? The facts say both are useful in their own way. Ultimately it depends on your intended use, the budget you have, and your skill when it comes to operating the printer.

This article covers everything for you—what both resin and filament printing are, their individual processes and functions, and the major distinctions to ease your decision-making.

What Is Resin 3D Printing?

Resin printing is the most precise type of 3D printing. Instead of using plastic filament, it cures a liquid photo-sensitive resin that hardens when exposed to UV light.

In resin 3D printing, the UV light source—such as a laser, projector, or LCD screen—cures a thin layer of liquid resin. Once a layer is solidified, the build platform moves slightly to allow the next layer to be formed, repeating this process until the full model is built.

If you are looking to print small objects like aesthetic prototypes, tabletop miniatures, figurines, or anything that requires utmost precision, then look no further because resin printing is unmatched in terms of surface finish and accuracy. The finishing needed is minimal, therefore, the printing is beautifully smooth.

What Is Filament 3D Printing?

Filament 3D printing—often referred to as FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling)—is one of the most common forms of 3D printing. It’s loved by both novice and advanced makers for its ease of use and flexibility.

This technique employs a plastic filament that is coiled around a reel. The filament is pushed through a hot nozzle that melts it, and then the filament is deposited in layers onto a build plate. The printer follows a digital path layer by layer, depositing melted plastic in precise locations to gradually build up the model.

These 3D printers have a wide range of applications and are convenient. They are easy to set up and work well for household items, prototypes, and even large functional parts.

Key Differences Between Resin and Filament

Resin 3D printing delivers superior detail, smoother finishes, and more professional results. While both methods have their uses, 3D printer resin stands out—and we’ll explain why.

1. Print Quality

When it comes to high quality surface finish, resin is the champ. If you need sharp details, smooth textures, and tiny features to show up clearly, resin definitely has the upper hand.

Filament printing can still look gorgeous, especially for larger items, but you can expect to see some layer lines. These can be removed through sanding or other specially developed treatments, but when compared to resin prints, they’ll never be perfect.

2. Print Size (Build Volume)

Filament printers typically offer larger build volumes, making them ideal for big models or one-piece prints. Entry-level resin printers often have smaller build areas, as they focus more on precision than scale.

3. Speed of Printing

For extensive but uncomplicated models, filament printing tends to be faster. Settings can be adjusted to increase layer thickness, which decreases printing time.

Resin printers like LCD and DLP types cure an entire layer at once, which can make them faster for printing batches or fine detail. However, cleaning and curing afterward still add to the total print time.

4. Ease of Use

This is where filament shines. Most filament printers are plug-and-play and simple to set up and operate. Maintenance will include some cleaning of the nozzle, and leveling the bed which is simple enough.

With resin printers, you have to put on gloves, do a bit of scrubbing, and process the work afterward. This may be a little intimidating for beginners.

So, in the resin vs filament 3D printer debate, the filament has the upper hand for daily use.

5. Cost

When it comes to long-term value, resin 3D printers offer excellent quality-to-performance benefits. While filament may seem more affordable at first glance, resin printing provides superior detail and surface quality that often reduces the need for rework or finishing. For users focused on accuracy and efficiency—especially in fields like design, prototyping, or model making—resin is a smart and scalable investment.

Why You Should Start Your 3D Printing Travel at HeyGears?

At HeyGears, we make high-precision resin 3D printing easier, smarter, and more accessible—without compromising on quality.

Advanced Technology

We bring industrial-grade DLP technology to desktop printers, solving common challenges like high failure rates and complex setups through smart sensors and compensation algorithms.

High-Performance Products

We offer the best resin 3D printers UltraCraft Reflex and UltraCraft Relfex RS, which feature L3-level process strategies, ensuring consistent accuracy, fine surface detail, and reliable performance across every print.

User-Friendly Software

With HeyGears Blueprint, even beginners can start printing in 15 minutes. The software includes auto-repair, pre-set parameters, and a simple 6-click workflow—no test prints needed.

Expert Support

Our dedicated technical team is here to help with setup, troubleshooting, and ongoing success—so you can focus on creating, not fixing.

FAQs: Quick Answers to Common Questions

3D Printing Resin VS Filament, Which One Is Safer to Use?

Filament printers are generally considered safer due to the lack of chemical handling. However, resin printers can also be used safely with proper precautions—such as gloves, ventilation, and post-curing—to avoid exposure to uncured resin, which may cause skin or respiratory irritation.

Can Large Items Be Printed through a Resin Printer?

Yes, but it typically requires a large-format resin printer, which comes at a higher cost. Alternatively, models can be split into sections and assembled after printing—a common practice for both hobby and professional use.

Which Is Stronger—Resin or Filament?

Filament prints, especially with materials like ABS or PETG, tend to offer higher impact resistance and flexibility. Standard resins are more brittle, but engineering or tough resins can achieve comparable strength and durability depending on the application.

Is It Possible to Use Both?

Yes, many makers use both printers; filament printers are great for utility prints, and resin printers for display-quality models.

Which Is Better for 3D Printing Beginners?

Filament printers are often recommended for beginners due to their straightforward setup and low maintenance.

However, modern resin printers—especially those with guided software and automated features, like HeyGears UltraCraft Reflex 3D printer—have become increasingly beginner-friendly.