When it comes to 3D printing gaming figurines, dice towers, or tabletop miniatures, one big question arises:
👉 Should I use an FDM printer or a Resin printer?
Both have their strengths, but depending on the type of game model, your budget, and your purpose (display or play), the right choice varies.
Let’s compare FDM vs Resin specifically for game accessories and miniatures.
🧱 What Is FDM 3D Printing?
FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling):
- Uses melted filament (PLA, PETG, etc.)
- Prints layer by layer through a heated nozzle
- Popular for functional and larger prints
🧩 Great for:
- Dice trays
- Storage boxes
- Large scenery/terrain
- Controller shells
🧪 What Is Resin 3D Printing?
Resin (SLA or MSLA):
- Uses liquid photopolymer resin
- UV light cures each layer precisely
- Capable of extreme detail
🧙♂️ Perfect for:
- Miniatures
- Game characters
- Statues & collectibles
- High-detail accessories
🔍 FDM vs Resin: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | FDM | Resin |
|---|---|---|
| Detail Quality | Moderate (0.2–0.1 mm layer) | Very High (0.05 mm or less) |
| Ideal For | Big parts, terrain | Miniatures, figures |
| Cost of Materials | Low (PLA ~₹700/kg) | Medium (~₹1,000–1,500/liter) |
| Print Speed | Faster for big objects | Slower but more accurate |
| Post-Processing | Easy (sanding/painting) | Needs washing & UV curing |
| Smell & Safety | Odor-free, safe | Needs ventilation, gloves |
| Print Size | Large bed size options | Smaller build volume |
🧠 Which Should You Use for Game Printing?
| Use Case | Recommended Printer |
|---|---|
| Game Tokens, Dice, Boards | ✅ FDM |
| Terrain, Buildings, Accessories | ✅ FDM |
| Character Miniatures (DnD) | ✅ Resin |
| Anime/Gaming Display Statues | ✅ Resin |
| Customized Controller Shells | ✅ FDM |
💡 Tip: Use FDM for gameplay parts, Resin for collectibles or heroes.
🛠️ Resin + FDM Combo Strategy
Many pro creators use both types of printers:
- Print terrain or props with FDM
- Print figurines, weapons, and NPCs in Resin
- Paint both together for a full tabletop set
🎯 Trinity Layers provides combo print packs if you don’t own a printer.
🧩 Trinity Layers Services
Want to print your game models in high quality?
✅ Resin & FDM printing service available
✅ Miniature + prop bundles
✅ STL support fixing & scaling
✅ Pan-India delivery
✅ Summary: FDM vs Resin in Gaming
- Choose FDM for function, size & durability
- Choose Resin for realism, detail & miniatures
- Combine both for the best tabletop experience