📅 Data publikacji: 02.05.2025
3D printing is no longer just a tool for enthusiasts. It has become a powerful technology used in industry, medicine, education, and even space exploration 🚀. As of 2025, the world of additive manufacturing is more diverse and advanced than ever before.
In this article, we will explore the most popular types of 3D printing technologies and help you understand which one is best suited to your needs. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, there's something here for you.
This is the most widely used 3D printing method in the world. It works by extruding melted filament (usually PLA, PETG, ABS) through a heated nozzle, building up the object layer by layer. 🧱
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
👉 Learn more in our article: How a 3D Printer Extruder Works
These technologies use UV light to cure photopolymer resin layer by layer. SLA uses a laser, while DLP uses a digital light projector. 🧪
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
🔬 Discover how scientists are improving this tech: New Resin for 3D Printed Contact Lenses
SLS prints using powdered nylon or other polymers. A laser selectively sinters particles together, creating solid parts without the need for supports.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
🏠 See SLS in action: 3D Printed Houses with Modern Methods
These methods fuse metal powders (like stainless steel, titanium, or aluminum) using powerful lasers. They are widely used in aerospace and automotive industries.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
💡 Learn more: 3D Printing with Metal
PolyJet technology sprays photopolymer droplets and cures them with UV light, similar to an inkjet printer. It allows for high-resolution, multi-color, and multi-material printing.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Still an emerging field, bioprinting uses cells and bio-inks to print tissues, organs, and structures for research or transplant. Although experimental, the potential is enormous.
Applications:
👁️ Explore breakthroughs: Resin for Medical Lenses
✅ Continue to Part 2 for future trends, comparison tables, and linkbacks to the ElWood knowledge base.
| Technology | Precision | Materials | Applications | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FDM | ⭐⭐ | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU | Prototypes, toys, functional parts | 💲 |
| SLA / DLP | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Photopolymer resin | Jewelry, dental, miniatures | 💲💲💲 |
| SLS | ⭐⭐⭐ | Nylon, composites | Mechanical parts, aerospace | 💲💲💲 |
| DMLS / SLM | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Metal powders | Engines, implants, tools | 💲💲💲💲💲 |
| PolyJet | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Resins | Color prototypes, art | 💲💲💲💲 |
3D printing continues to evolve at a rapid pace. In 2025, we see several groundbreaking trends emerging:
At ElWood 3D, we’re already embracing these innovations. Our team tests new printers, filaments, and workflows constantly — so we’re always ready to help you choose the best option.
If you're just starting out, FDM is likely your best bet. Affordable and easy to use, it’s great for learning and everyday prints. If you care about detail and aesthetics, try SLA or DLP. For engineering parts, SLS and DMLS are unmatched.
Need help? Contact us and we’ll guide you 🧑💻
💡 Want to see what real results look like? Check out our bestselling product: Wazon Vortex – modern decorative vase.
➡️ Continue to Part 3 to learn how ElWood 3D helps clients choose the best printing tech and how we use multiple methods daily.
At ElWood 3D, we don’t just talk about technology — we use it every day. Our clients come to us with unique needs: one may want a minimalist flower vase, another a mechanical prototype, and someone else a custom-designed toy for a child’s birthday. Each project is different — and that’s what we love 💛
Depending on the task, we choose the appropriate printing method:
Many clients are surprised how quickly their concept becomes reality. A hand-sketched idea can evolve into a beautiful, tangible object within days.
We offer full transparency in pricing and execution — whether the order costs 100 PLN or 1000 PLN, you get our full attention 👨🔬
The method you choose determines more than the look — it impacts cost, strength, texture, and sustainability. For instance:
Here’s what our clients say:
“I needed a custom lamp shade — ElWood 3D delivered it in 24 hours, and it was perfect!” – Marta, Warsaw
“They printed gears for my old espresso machine. It works again thanks to them!” – Luca, Milan
No matter where you are — Berlin, Paris, Vienna, or Prague — we ship fast and reliably across all of Europe. Thanks to our courier partners and in-house logistics, you can rest assured your order arrives safely and on time 🚚
Take a look at our popular product on Amazon: 🛒 Wazon Vortex – spiral modern vase.
Let us help you choose the best 3D printing method for your needs. At ElWood 3D, you’ll find a team that listens, advises, and executes with care and speed. Whether it’s a personal hobby, business solution, or gift — we print your vision into reality.