In the world of professional-grade 3D printing, the Formlabs Form 3+ and Form 4 are both stand-out, premier options. Both models deliver exceptional part quality, meeting the demands of industrial prototyping and production. However, the Form 4 introduces MSLA (Masked SLA) technology, enhancing speed, reliability, and automation.
This comparison breaks down the key differences, strengths, and trade-offs to help you decide which model best fits your needs. You can purchase both of these printers on the EAC Additive eStore.
1. Print Technology Comparison
Form 3+: Low Force Stereolithography (LFS):
- Utilizes a flexible tank membrane and a moving Light Processing Unit (LPU) ‘laser’.
- Rollers press the membrane against the build platform, gently ‘rolling’ each layer onto it, which reduces the risk of print failures and supports a broader range of materials.
- The LFS process is slower and requires regular maintenance due to the delicate parts like galvanometers and lasers in the LPU.
Form 4: Low Force Display (LFD):
- Employs a durable tank membrane paired with a non-mechanical DLP (Digital Light Processing) display for layer creation.
- The DLP display cures an entire cross-section at once, significantly speeding up the printing process.
- Features a dimpled surface beneath the membrane to mimic LFS flexibility and reduce wear, with a tilting tank to minimize detachment force.
Winner: Form 4 – While both printers excel, the Form 4’s DLP technology offers faster, more precise results with fewer maintenance requirements.
2. Speed
Speed is a major advantage of the Form 4. Its DLP engine cures entire layers in seconds, resulting in print times up to 5x faster than the Form 3+.
- Form 3+: Optimized for quick support printing, but the laser-based system slows down with large or intricate parts.
- Form 4: Designed for high-volume production, the Form 4 cures cross-sections at once, dramatically cutting print times.
Winner: Form 4 – Ideal for businesses that need high-speed outputs and rapid production workflows.
3. Print Quality and Accuracy
Both models offer 25-micron resolution, but the Form 4’s improved optics provide better accuracy and detail.
- Form 3+: Delivers smooth finishes and fine details, perfect for engineering and biocompatible applications.
- Form 4: Produces sharper edges and precise dimensional accuracy, making it a great choice for functional prototypes that need to match injection-molded quality.
Winner: Form 4 – Consistently delivers superior precision, especially on complex or production-grade parts.
4. Material Compatibility
- Form 3+: Compatible with a wide range of Formlabs resins, including flexible and dental options, with light-touch supports that simplify post-processing.
- Form 4: Expands material compatibility to over 37 certified resins, including third-party options like PU Rigid 1000 and Alumina 4N, opening new possibilities for industrial, medical, and engineering applications.
Winner: Form 4 – Its open platform offers unmatched flexibility with certified third-party resins.
5. Ease of Use and Workflow Integration
- Form 3+: Designed with user-replaceable components and a straightforward cartridge system, making it easy to switch materials. However, the flexible tanks require careful handling and have a limited lifespan.
- Form 4: Simplifies workflows with more durable tanks and square resin cartridges that are easier to store and use less packaging material.
Winner: Form 4 – With its easier setup and improved consumables, the Form 4 streamlines the printing process.
6. Reliability and Print Success Rate
Both printers are known for reliability, but the Form 4 offers a higher success rate, thanks to fewer moving parts and enhanced sensors.
- Form 3+: Uses sensors and light-touch supports to prevent failures but requires regular maintenance due to the many mechanical components.
- Form 4: Features advanced sensors that detect issues early, ensuring smoother operations with minimal intervention.
Winner: Form 4 – Its simplified design makes it the better option for continuous or large-scale production.
7. Post-Processing Workflow
Both models integrate with Formlabs’ Form Wash and Form Cure systems, making post-processing simple and efficient.
- Form 3+: Easy-to-remove supports and seamless integration with Form Wash and Form Cure ensure professional results.
- Form 4: MSLA technology reduces the need for supports, and small touchpoints make support removal even easier.
Winner: Form 4 – Better support management reduces post-processing time.
8. Pricing and Value
- Form 3+: It’s a cost-effective solution for smaller teams or businesses seeking high-quality results without a large investment.
- Form 4: While more expensive, it offers long-term value with faster production, lower operational costs, and support for sustainable practices by minimizing material waste.
Winner:
- Form 3+: Best for those prioritizing affordability.
- Form 4: Provides better value for high-volume production environments.
9. Which Printer Should You Choose?
Choose the Form 3+ if:
- You need an affordable solution for prototyping or small-batch production.
- Prints taking hours vs minutes aligns with your operating rhythm and is acceptable when taking pricing into consideration
- You want a reliable, lower-maintenance printer with quick setup.
Choose the Form 4 if:
- Fast printing speeds and automation are critical.
- You require access to advanced workflow tools and third-party materials.
- Your business demands high-volume production with minimal downtime.
10. Final Verdict: Form 3+ or Form 4?
Both the Form 3+ and Form 4 are outstanding printers, each excelling in specific areas. The Form 3+ is ideal for smaller teams or individuals looking for professional results on a budget. Meanwhile, the Form 4 is the clear choice for businesses focused on scaling production, speed, and precision.
If speed, reliability, and versatility are top priorities, the Form 4 offers unparalleled performance. However, for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality, the Form 3+ remains a fantastic option.
