For businesses and professionals in need of fast, high-quality 3D printing, the Formlabs Form 4 and Form 4L each offer distinct advantages. Both models are known for precision and reliability, making them well-suited for industrial prototyping and production applications. The Form 4L, however, provides a larger build volume, allowing for more efficient production of larger parts as well as the ability to print larger quantities of smaller parts.
Here’s an overview of their key features and how each printer may suit different production requirements.
1. Build Volume and Part Size
The Form 4 is a powerful choice for small to medium-sized parts with detailed features, but the Form 4L is designed for larger applications.
- Form 4: With a build volume of 20.0 × 12.5 × 21.0 cm, it’s well-suited for high-precision prototypes, small components, and assemblies.
- Form 4L: Expands to a build volume of 35.3 × 19.6 × 35.0 cm, accommodating parts that are up to 4.6x larger than those possible with the Form 4. This enables production of sizable prototypes and large-format industrial parts. Additionally, the large build volume allows for printing of higher numbers of parts.
Winner: Form 4L – Perfect for large parts and batch printing without compromising on quality.
2. Print Speed
Both the Form 4 and Form 4L use Low Force Display (LFD) technology for fast and precise printing. The Form 4L’s larger build area can handle larger layers more quickly, which speeds up the printing process for big parts.
- Form 4: Ideal for fast small-batch or single-part production, with the ability to complete most prints within two hours.
- Form 4L: Capable of producing large parts in under six hours, making it an excellent option for industries needing big parts on tight timelines. Also, the larger volume is nearly 3 times as large as the Form 4. In that case, the 4L is actually much faster than the Form 4 when printing parts that would normally only be printed one at a time on the Form 4
Winner: Form 4L – Efficient for larger parts and quick prototyping of multiple parts simultaneously.
3. Print Quality and Surface Finish
Both printers offer high-quality finishes and exceptional detail, with anti-aliasing and advanced optics for smooth, sharp edges.
- Form 4: Provides dimensional accuracy within ±0.15% and delivers surface finishes that rival injection molding.
- Form 4L: Matches the print quality of the Form 4, ensuring that large parts maintain the same smooth surface finish and high level of detail.
Winner: Draw – Both printers offer exceptional quality, with Form 4L retaining the same precision on larger parts.
4. Materials and Versatility
Both models support a vast range of Formlabs resins and are compatible with certified third-party materials, adding to their versatility.
- Form 4: Optimized for engineering-grade materials, including impact-resistant, flexible, and flame-retardant options.
- Form 4L: Supports the same extensive material range but allows for larger quantities, which is essential for sizable industrial parts or high-volume production.
Winner: Draw – Both printers provide robust material compatibility, giving users flexibility across applications.
5. Ease of Use and Workflow Integration
Formlabs prioritizes ease of use and smooth workflow with PreForm software, integrated cameras, and remote monitoring options for both printers. The Form 4L adds features like a 5L Resin Pumping System and automatic resin dispensing to handle the demands of large-scale printing.
- Form 4: Simple enough for new users to operate within 15 minutes, with a straightforward setup process.
- Form 4L: Adds efficiencies like automated resin handling, reducing manual intervention for large prints.
Winner: Form 4L – Simplified for high-volume work with advanced resin management.
6. Reliability and Consumable Management
The reliability of both the Form 4 and Form 4L is reinforced by intelligent control systems, validated print settings, and re-engineered consumables for long-lasting performance.
- Form 4: Features factory calibration and light touch supports to reduce peel forces and prevent print failures.
- Form 4L: Includes the same reliability features and is built to handle the additional load of larger prints with robust consumables and advanced diagnostic tools.
Winner: Draw – Both printers are engineered for dependable performance, with the Form 4L optimized for bigger prints.
7. Post-Processing
Both printers integrate with Formlabs’ Form Wash and Form Cure systems Both machines also offer a flexible build plate (Form 4L Flexible Build plate available soon).
- Form 4: A flexible build plate option for the Form 4 means part removal is very simple.
- Form 4L: The Form 4L also offers a flexible build plate.
Winner: Draw – Both printers offer flexible build plates for easy part removal..
8. Pricing and Value
The Form 4 offers a cost-effective solution for small to medium-sized parts with high-quality output. The Form 4L, while more expensive, justifies its price with a larger build volume, faster production times for big prints, and lower operational costs for batch production.
- Form 4: Ideal for smaller businesses or those who prioritize precision in compact prints.
- Form 4L: Suited for high-volume, industrial applications where large-part production is essential.
Winner: Depends on need – Form 4 for affordability, Form 4L for large-scale production and batch printing.
Which Printer Should You Choose?
- Choose the Form 4 if you need a high-quality, compact solution for prototyping and producing small parts, especially in a cost-effective setup.
- Choose the Form 4L if you require a larger build volume, faster print speeds for big parts and multiple parts, and an optimized workflow for high-volume production.
Both the Form 4 and Form 4L offer outstanding value for different production needs. The Form 4 provides a powerful, affordable option for precise smaller parts, while the Form 4L enables faster, large-scale production without compromising on quality.
Whether you’re focused on cost-effective prototyping or large-scale production, you can find both models on EAC Additive’s e-store to fit your specific manufacturing goals.
