Table 1.

Comparison of four common 3D printing methods

Printing method	SLA	SLS	3DP	FDM
Resolution	High	Medium	Medium	Low
Surface quality	Smooth	Medium	Medium	Rough
Cost	Relatively expensive	Medium	Medium	Low-cost machines and materials
Materials	Photosensitive resin	Wax, metal, ceramic powder	Wax, metal, ceramic powder	Polymers: PLA, ABS, PVA
Other features	Limited to photopolymers; supports printing of flexible materials	Design freedom; no need for support; no post processing needed	Adhesive sprayed through nozzle	Limited to materials that melt