The 3D printer types can appear confusing at first. Various 3D printing technologies have different applications, starting with hobbyists who print miniature models on the tabletop, up to engineers who are creating industrial prototypes. All kinds of printers possess their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the best use options, so the correct selection remains essential.

In this guide, we will discuss the basic categories of 3D printers, the ways to use them in order to figure out what exactly is the most appropriate, and the recommendations, including the Reflex RS and the Reflex RS Turbo, as the latest trends in the history of resin-based creative work.

What Are the Main Types of 3D Printers?

Here, we introduce the 3 main types of 3D printers, each of which has its advantages.

FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling): The Most Popular for Beginners

Most makers begin with FDM. It works by automatically extruding a layer of melted plastic filament through a heated nozzle to build objects layer by layer. These printers are affordable, common, and flexible. Although they do not offer the ultra-smooth finishes provided by resin printers, they are highly useful in functional components, large-scale printing, and other prototypes that require more strength than detail.

SLA & DLP (Resin Printing): For High-Detail and Smooth Finishes

In case you want a detailed and smooth surface, then SLA (Stereolithography) and DLP (Digital Light Processing) printers are best. They layer liquid resin and cure it using UV (Ultraviolet) light to create models with such sharp edges and such remarkable precision. Resin printers are preferred by jewellers, miniature makers, dentists, and engineering experts. While resin demands more post-processing compared to FDM, the results are unparalleled with regard to precision.

SLS (Selective Laser Sintering): Industrial-Grade Strength

SLS printers involve the use of lasers in order to solidify powdered material, typically nylon, into solid structures. As opposed to FDM and SLA, SLS technology does not require dedicated support structures because the surrounding unsintered powder naturally supports the printed parts during the build process. Such machines are usually applied in the industrial sphere, such as aerospace details, and working models. However, they are professional and expensive and are relatively usable by businesses, rather than by a hobbyist.

How to Choose the Right 3D Printer for You

When selecting between the various 3D printer types, you must make a decision depending on the three main variables:

Purpose: Do you require detailed miniatures, strong functional prototypes, or industrial-scale parts?

Budget: FDM printers generally offer the lowest entry-level cost, while professional-grade resin and SLS printers represent higher investment tiers. However, the price gap for entry-level equipment has significantly narrowed in recent years.

Experience Level: Beginners tend to start with either FDM or entry-level resin printers, although more sophisticated users may buy industrial printers.

Available materials, ease of use, and their maintenance should also be considered. When accuracy and automation are essential to you, then high-quality resin printers such as the Reflex RS or the Reflex RS Turbo can be a great purchase.

Top 3D Printers You Should Consider in 2025

For creators seeking a balance of speed, precision, and user-friendliness in a resin 3D printer, the HeyGears Reflex series Resin 3D Printers, particularly the Reflex RS and Reflex RS Turbo models, is worth considering in 2025. These printers are engineered to deliver high reliability and rapid print times, catering to the demands of both dedicated hobbyists and professional users.

Reflex Turbo 3D Printer

Reflex Turbo 3D Printer is the enhanced version of the Reflex series, which is fast and produces high-quality results. It has a contrast ratio of 566:1, Amber Screen, which is almost 60% better than earlier models, which assures sharp edges and details. In the presence of a dyed polarizer film and optical layers, UV light is transmissible at the most valuable angles and eliminates stray curing, giving you clean and defect-free surfaces.

It also includes a C5-grade Z-axis module with ±2 μm accuracy, having adaptive Z-axis compensation, and a high-rigidity frame that reduces vibration. All of these features ensure a high degree of consistency among the results being printed, even in long runs. 

This printer is not only powerful, but it is also user-friendly. Automated slicing software, built-in error detection, and intelligent support generation make the printer accessible to both beginners and advanced users. 

Add-ons such as the RS Pulsing Resin Tank, Heated and Pulsing Resin are optional to ensure a stable resin temperature and the greatest level of reliability. Blending speed, detail, and automation together, the Reflex RS Turbo stands up to creators who should use the outputs of professional quality but do not have to adjust all parameters manually every time.

Reflex RS 3D Printer

The standard model of the series is the Reflex RS 3D Printer, which is designed to be highly accurate and reliable. Similar to the Turbo, it also employs the use of Dynamic Motion Algorithm 3.0 in optimizing the printed speed and quality, yet emphasizes stability and precision as long-term usability.

The important system characteristics include automatic defect-detecting and repair mechanism, intelligent support-generating experience, and a floating screen system that remove leveling gaps up to 240 μm. It has a full-field precision screen with 60-zone calibration that preserves the intensity of light within ±3% in its consistency across the build plate. Together with adaptive Z-axis compensation and force sensors that automatically stop in case of failure, the Reflex RS can be trusted with complex models.

It also has an automatic resin refill system and optional heated tanks, which streamline the workflow of the professionals who value efficiency. It is compatible with various HeyGears resins, such as water-washable and rapid prototyping materials, and is suitable for different industries, such as dental modelling, jewelry prototyping, and tabletop miniatures.

Common Questions about 3D Printer Types

FDM vs. SLA: Which 3D printer is better for you?

FDM is cheaper and stronger in terms of functionality. SLA resin printing is better than FDM in terms of precision and fine details.

Which is cheaper, resin or FDM?

When comparing Resin vs FDM in terms of cost, FDM is cheaper in material cost as well as in initial investment. Resin prints are also more costly because they require specialized resins and after-processing technology.

Do metal 3D printers exist?

Yes, such technologies as DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering) are used by metal 3D printers. They cost a fortune and are used primarily in the aerospace, automotive, and medical fields.

Why are industrial 3D printers so expensive?

What makes industrial printers more expensive is that they are more sophisticated in technology, constructed using high-strength materials and consequent precision to adapt to high-demand sectors.

What kind of printer should a beginner choose?

FDM printers remain a popular starting point for beginners due to their straightforward operation, though modern resin printers have also become increasingly user-friendly. Nonetheless, entry-level resin printers such as the Reflex RS 3D Printer would also be a great option as far as detail is concerned.

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How Does a 3D Printer Work Step by Step?

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