You started with FDM printers, made several successful prints, and you're satisfied with the results. But something bothers you: layer lines. You want that perfectly smooth surface, fine details, crystal-clear transparent parts. This is exactly where resin printers come into play.
Resin printing technology - called SLA, MSLA, or DLP - is like the haute couture of 3D printing. Instead of FDM's practicality and speed, it offers perfect detail and surface quality. It's the choice of a wide range of professional users from dental laboratories to jewelry workshops, from miniature hobby enthusiasts to prosthetic manufacturers.
So how do resin printers work? What are the differences from FDM? Who are they suitable for and which technology is right for you? Let's explore together.
What Is Resin Printing and How Does It Work?
Resin printing creates objects layer by layer by hardening liquid photopolymer resin with UV light. Instead of melting-cooling like in FDM, it uses a chemical reaction with light.
Basic Principle
Photopolymer resin is a special liquid plastic. When exposed to UV light (typically 405 nm wavelength), it solidifies. This process is called "curing." Resin printers use this principle to form the object by hardening each layer with UV light.
Working Steps
1. Resin Vat Liquid resin is contained in a transparent tank. The bottom of the tank is covered with a special film (FEP film) that UV light can pass through.
2. Build Platform The platform is immersed into the resin tank. Printing is done "upside down" - meaning the object grows suspended under the platform.
3. Hardening with Light UV light comes from under the tank and forms the shape of that layer. Where the light hits, it solidifies.
4. Platform Rises After a layer solidifies, the platform rises (typically 0.025-0.1 mm). The FEP film separates from the liquid, fresh resin flows.
5. Repeat and Repeat The platform dips back into the resin, the next layer is hardened. This process continues until the object is complete.
6. Cleaning and Final Cure When printing finishes, the part comes out of the resin. Liquid resin on it is washed off (with IPA alcohol) and final curing is done in a UV light box.
Three Main Resin Technologies
1. SLA (Stereolithography)
Light Source: UV Laser (point)
How It Works: The laser moves pointwise on the resin surface and draws that layer's pattern. Just like in a laser show, the beam moves rapidly to create the shape.
Advantages:
- Very high precision
- Large build volumes possible
- Professional quality
Disadvantages:
- Expensive equipment
- Slow (laser draws point by point)
- High maintenance cost
Use: Industrial applications, large and detailed parts
2. MSLA (Masked Stereolithography)
Light Source: LED UV array + LCD screen (mask)
How It Works: The LCD screen acts as a masking device. For each layer, an image forms on the LCD screen (black-white). UV light from LEDs, when passing through the LCD, only passes through white pixels. Thus the entire layer solidifies simultaneously.
Advantages:
- Very fast (entire layer at once)
- Affordable price
- Compact and quiet
- Easy maintenance
Disadvantages:
- Limited LCD screen lifespan (500-2000 hours)
- Pixel-based resolution (typically 50 microns)
- Small-medium build volumes
Use: Most popular resin technology - hobby, dental, jewelry, prototype
3. DLP (Digital Light Processing)
Light Source: DLP projector
How It Works: Similar to MSLA, but uses DLP chip instead of LCD. Light is reflected by micro mirrors. Each layer solidifies simultaneously through projection.
Advantages:
- Very fast
- High resolution
- DLP chip long-lasting
- More uniform light (homogeneous)
Disadvantages:
- More expensive than MSLA
- Costly projector replacement
- Usually small build volumes
Use: Professional dental, jewelry casting, high-precision required work
Advantages of Resin Printing
1. Perfect Surface Quality
Resin prints have almost injection molding quality smooth surface. Layer lines are nearly invisible (especially when using thin layers). Post-processing is minimal.
2. Incredible Detail
With 0.025 mm layer thickness and 25-50 micron pixel size, very fine details are possible. Walls as thin as human hair, small text, complex textures - all flawless.
3. Isotropic Strength
Unlike FDM, resin prints have equal strength in all directions. There's no weakness in the layer direction.
4. Transparency Possible
Using special transparent resins, glass-like clear parts can be produced. Ideal for lens prototypes, flow visualization, light guides.
5. Smooth Overhangs
Since supports are thin, overhang (suspended) sections come out more successfully. Support marks are minimal.
6. Speed (MSLA/DLP)
In MSLA and DLP, layer time is independent of object size. Whether 1 cm or 10 cm diameter, it takes 1-3 seconds per layer. Small-medium sized very detailed parts can be printed much faster than FDM.
7. Silent Operation
Since mechanical movement is minimal, resin printers are very quiet. You can even run them in a bedroom.
Disadvantages of Resin Printing
1. Resin Cost
Resin is more expensive than filament. 1 kg standard resin is 400-800 TL, special resins can be 1000+ TL. Filament is around 300-600 TL.
2. Post-Processing Mandatory
After each print:
- Resin washing (IPA alcohol)
- Support removal
- Final UV cure These processes require 15-30 minutes extra time and materials (alcohol, gloves).
3. Health and Safety
Liquid resin can cause skin irritation. Glove use is mandatory. Some resins produce odor and require ventilation. Skin contact can lead to allergic reactions, especially in sensitive individuals.
4. Limited Material Flexibility
There aren't dozens of material types like in FDM. Basically there are photopolymer resins - standard, tough, flexible, dental, etc. But not the variety like PLA, ABS, TPU, Nylon.
5. Limited Build Volume
Most MSLA printers work with volumes like 20x12x20 cm. Build volumes like 30x30x40 cm in FDM are rare (and very expensive).
6. Brittleness (Standard Resin)
Standard resins are more brittle than FDM plastic. They can crack when dropped. (Tough resins solve this problem, but are more expensive.)
7. UV Sensitivity
Resin parts can yellow or become brittle when exposed to sunlight for long periods. Application of UV protective varnish is recommended.
8. Tank and FEP Maintenance
Resin tank and FEP film wear out over time. FEP needs to be replaced (100-200 TL). Tank cleaning is important.
9. Waste Management
Used resin, alcohol, and failed prints are considered hazardous waste. Cannot be thrown directly in trash, must be cured with UV light or disposed of specially.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Dental Laboratories
The largest user group of resin printers:
- Dental models
- Surgical guides
- Temporary crowns and bridges
- Dentures (denture bases)
- Clear aligner models
Dental resins are biocompatible and FDA/CE approved. Precision is critical - even 0.05 mm error is unacceptable.
Jewelry Designers
Producing master models for lost-wax casting:
- Rings
- Pendant tips
- Earrings
- Complex filigree work
Castable resins burn without leaving ash and provide clean casting.
Miniature and Hobby Enthusiasts
Tabletop games (D&D, Warhammer), dioramas, modeling:
- Figures
- Characters
- Vehicles
- Building details
Detail is very important - facial expressions, finger details, texture - resin is perfect.
Prosthetic and Orthotic Manufacturers
Patient-specific medical devices:
- Ear prosthetics
- Finger/hand prosthetics
- Foot orthotics
- Skull implant models
Product Designers
Very detailed visual prototypes:
- Aesthetic models
- Ergonomic tests
- Presentation models
- Casting molds
Artists
High-detail work for sculptures, artworks, exhibition pieces.
NOT SUITABLE Uses for Resin
- Large functional parts → FDM more economical
- Impact-absorbing parts → TPU filament better
- Daily use items → PLA/PETG more practical
- Outdoor applications → ASA filament more UV resistant
- Parts requiring high heat resistance → Nylon/PC/PEEK filaments
Resin Types
Standard Resin
Use: General prototyping, figures, visual models Properties: Affordable price, easy printing, good detail Strength: Medium Price: 400-600 TL/kg
Tough/ABS-like Resin
Use: Functional prototype, snap-fit parts, mechanical tests Properties: High impact resistance, crack resistant Strength: High Price: 600-900 TL/kg
Flexible Resin
Use: Gaskets, seals, soft buttons, grips Shore Hardness: 50A-80A (TPU-like) Price: 700-1000 TL/kg
Dental Resin
Types:
- Model Resin: For dental models
- Surgical Guide: Surgical guide, implant planning
- Temporary Crown: Temporary crown and bridge
- Denture Base: Denture base
Certifications: FDA/CE approved, biocompatible (ISO 10993) Price: 1200-2500 TL/kg
Jewelry/Castable Resin
Use: Lost-wax casting, jewelry master model Properties:
- Burns completely without leaving ash
- High detail
- Smooth surface (after polishing) Price: 1000-1800 TL/kg
Transparent (Clear) Resin
Use: Lens prototype, fluid flow test, light guide Properties:
- Glass-like transparency (after polishing)
- Low UV resistance (yellows) Price: 700-1200 TL/kg
High Temperature Resin
HDT (Heat Deflection Temperature): Up to 238°C Use: Mold, fixture, injection mold master, automotive Price: 1200-2000 TL/kg
Water Washable
Properties: Cleans with water instead of IPA Advantages: Safer, cheaper Disadvantages: Usually more brittle Price: 500-800 TL/kg
Price Ranges
Entry Level: 4,000 - 12,000 TL
Features:
- Monochrome LCD screen (2K-4K)
- Build volume: around 13x8x16 cm
- USB connection
- Basic features
Expectations:
- Nice prints with standard resins
- Sufficient for hobby and learning
- Manual adjustment may be needed
Suitable For: Hobbyists, miniature enthusiasts, beginners
Mid-Level: 12,000 - 35,000 TL
Features:
- 4K-8K monochrome screen
- Larger build volume (19x12x20 cm)
- Fast printing (2 sec/layer)
- WiFi connection
- Carbon filter (odor reduction)
Expectations:
- Professional quality prints
- Working with various resin types
- More reliable, faster
Suitable For: Serious hobbyists, small businesses, dental/jewelry startups
Professional Level: 35,000 - 150,000+ TL
Features:
- 8K-12K resolution
- Large volumes (30x17x40 cm)
- Very fast (1 sec/layer)
- Automatic resin filling
- Temperature control
- Remote management
- Industrial software
Expectations:
- Industrial quality
- 24/7 production capacity
- Minimum error rate
Suitable For: Dental labs, jewelry production, mass production
Recommended Resin Printer Models (2026)
Entry Level
Elegoo Mars 4 Ultra (9,000-11,000 TL)
- Resolution: 7K (18 micron pixel)
- Build Volume: 153x77x165 mm
- Speed: 70 mm/hour
- Pros: Very high resolution, affordable, WiFi
- Cons: Small volume
Anycubic Photon Mono 2 (7,000-9,000 TL)
- Resolution: 6K
- Build Volume: 165x89x165 mm
- Speed: 60 mm/hour
- Pros: Reliable, large community, affordable
- Cons: No WiFi, old interface
Creality Halot-Mage Pro (10,000-13,000 TL)
- Resolution: 8K
- Build Volume: 228x128x230 mm (LARGE!)
- Speed: 80 mm/hour
- Pros: Large volume, high resolution
- Cons: Large volume = more resin
Mid-Level
Elegoo Saturn 3 Ultra (16,000-20,000 TL)
- Resolution: 12K (19 micron!)
- Build Volume: 219x123x260 mm
- Speed: 150 mm/hour (VERY FAST!)
- Pros: Highest resolution, very fast, WiFi
- Cons: Expensive
Phrozen Sonic Mega 8K S (25,000-30,000 TL)
- Resolution: 8K
- Build Volume: 330x185x400 mm (HUGE!)
- Speed: 80 mm/hour
- Pros: Very large volume, quality build
- Cons: Very expensive, high resin consumption
Anycubic Photon M3 Max (18,000-23,000 TL)
- Resolution: 7K
- Build Volume: 298x164x300 mm
- Dual linear rail (more stable)
- Pros: Large, reliable, good price
- Cons: 7K resolution (lower than 8K)
Professional Level (Dental)
Formlabs Form 3+ (120,000-150,000 TL)
- Technology: SLA (laser)
- Build Volume: 145x145x185 mm
- Automatic resin dispensing
- PreForm software (excellent)
- Pros: Industrial quality, reliable, wide resin library
- Cons: Very expensive, small volume
Phrozen Sonic 4K Dental (80,000-100,000 TL)
- Resolution: 4K (optimized for dental)
- FDA/CE approved dental resins
- Dental workflow integration
- Pros: Dental-specific, fast, reliable
- Cons: Over-spec for non-dental use
Post-Processing: After Resin Printing
1. Removing from Platform
Separate the print from platform with a metal spatula. Wear gloves!
2. Support Removal
Cut supports with cutting pliers. Later use chisel for detailed cleaning.
3. Washing (Cleaning)
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) Method:
- Have IPA in two containers (first wash, final wash)
- Wash the part 2-5 minutes in each container
- Scrub with soft brush
Water Washable Resin:
- Wash under tap water
- Scrub with soft brush
- Less dangerous but less common
4. Drying
Air dry or gently wipe with towel. Let alcohol evaporate.
5. Final UV Cure
Cure in UV cure station (or sunlight) for 5-15 minutes. This maximizes mechanical properties.
Warning: Over-curing leads to yellowing and brittleness.
6. Final Touch (Optional)
- Sanding (fine grit sandpaper 400-1000)
- Primer-paint
- Polishing (for transparent parts)
Safety and Health
Glove Use MANDATORY
Wear nitrile gloves. Latex is not enough - resin can penetrate.
Ventilation
If working in enclosed space, provide ventilation. Some resins produce odor and are irritating.
Prevent Skin Contact
If resin touches skin, wash immediately with plenty of soapy water. Allergic reaction can develop.
Children and Pets
Resin and alcohol should be kept away from children and pets.
Waste Management
Used resin, alcohol, and failed prints should not be thrown directly in trash. Cure with UV light, then dispose.
Conclusion: Resin for Detail, FDM for Practicality
Resin printers are like the Ferrari of the 3D printing world - fast, beautiful, expensive, and requires special care. FDM is like Toyota - practical, economical, reliable.
Which technology is right for you? Answer these questions:
- Is detail very important? → Resin
- Will you print large parts? → FDM
- Functional daily use parts? → FDM
- Miniatures, jewelry or dental? → Resin
- Is starting budget low? → FDM
- Ready to do post-processing? → Resin
- Home environment with children? → FDM (safer)
Many users own both technologies: FDM for daily work and prototypes, resin for special detailed projects.
In our next article, we'll look deeply into FDM filament types. PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU... Which should be used when? We'll examine them all in detail.
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