FDM vs Resin 3D Printing for Tabletop Miniatures and Terrain
FDM vs Resin 3D Printing for Tabletop Miniatures and Terrain – What’s the Best Choice?
Whether you're gearing up for your next Warhammer battle or prepping for a deep dungeon crawl in Dungeons & Dragons, choosing the right type of 3D print can make a big difference. We offer both FDM and Resin printed models in our shop — and each has its own strengths depending on how you play, paint, and display.
Let’s break down the differences and help you decide which print type is right for your next tabletop project.
What is FDM Printing?
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing uses a heated nozzle to lay down layers of melted plastic (usually PLA). It's a sturdy, reliable method that excels at producing durable, affordable models, especially for frequent game use.
Best for:
- Everyday tabletop miniatures
- Terrain pieces that get moved often
- Players who don’t mind a bit of post-processing
- Gamers looking for a budget-friendly option
Pros:
- Tough and game-table ready
- Great for larger models or terrain
- Lower cost per print
- Easy to sand, prime, and paint
Cons:
- Visible layer lines (especially on curved surfaces)
- Less detail compared to resin
- Slightly rougher surfaces
What is Resin Printing?
Resin printing uses liquid photopolymer cured by UV light to create extremely detailed models. It’s the go-to for collectors, painters, and anyone wanting a display-quality finish.
Best for:
- High-detail miniatures
- Painters and hobbyists
- Hero characters or centerpieces
- Dioramas or collector's displays
Pros:
- Incredibly fine detail
- Smooth, crisp surfaces
- Ideal for painting and showcasing
Cons:
- More fragile than FDM (especially thin parts)
- More expensive due to material and curing time
- Not ideal for young players or heavy handling
So... Which Should You Choose?
| Use Case | Go With FDM | Go With Resin |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday gameplay | ✅ Durable and affordable | ❌ Can break with rough use |
| Painting & display models | ✅ Can work with prep | ✅ Best choice for fine detail |
| Kids or casual players | ✅ Great for durability | ❌ Can be brittle |
| Hero characters / Boss models | ✅ Budget large-scale option | ✅ Premium look and finish |
| Terrain and scenery | ✅ Best for durability & size | ⚠️ Optional for diorama-quality |
| Budget-friendly | ✅ Lower price point | ❌ Higher material cost |
Final Thoughts
There’s no wrong answer — just the right tool for the job.
FDM is tough, economical, and great for game nights.
Resin is beautiful, precise, and ideal for the showcase shelf.
Need help picking the right format for a specific model or terrain set? Contact us or check the product page — we’ll always let you know what format is available and why it matters.