3D Printing Vs. Injection Molding: Which Is the Right Choice?

September 20, 2024

The rise of cost-effective 3D printing offers a powerful tool for rapid prototyping, as well as an alternative to injection molding for making plastic parts and products. Injection molding and 3D printing are both versatile, effective techniques, but sometimes, one approach will be better suited to your project. Evaluating some aspects of your project can help to determine whether injection molding or 3D printing will be a better fit.

How Big Is Your Production Run?

Because injection molding requires custom metal molds, it is most cost-effective for making larger quantities where that cost is spread across the full production run. 3D printing is generally more cost-effective for smaller runs, in the range of hundreds or fewer. 

What Is Your Production Schedule?

3D printing has a very short lead time, but actual production is much slower than injection molding, which is one of the fastest manufacturing methods once tooling is completed.

Does Your Product Have an Unusual Shape?

Some shapes can be more challenging for injection molding or may require additional tooling, adding to costs. 3D printing may be better suited for designs with spaces, gaps, branching or intricate structures, or other elements which would make it difficult for the injected resin to properly fill a mold or for parts to be ejected from it.

What Surface Must Your Product Have?

3D printing may result in a slightly rougher surface, or visible layering. If a very smooth surface or minimal friction are important aspects of your product, injection molding is likely to be a better fit.

How Strong Does Your Product Need To Be?

Because injection molded parts are produced in a single step, they tend to be stronger than 3D printed parts which may weaken where layers meet.


At Bennett Plastics, our team has decades of experience in plastics manufacturing, and we're ready to help you make the best choices for manufacturing your products. Contact us today to request a quote or to learn more about what we can do for you.

Recent Articles

The 3 Best Qualities of Successful Plastic Manufacturers : Bennett Plastics

The 3 Best Qualities of Successful Plastic Manufacturers

September 23, 2024
Many organizations that use plastic products do not necessarily manufacture them on their own. There are plastic manufacturing companies that offer production services, but don't offer a comprehensive service to create and distribute your product. Like everything in business, you need to make an informed choice when selecting a top plastic manufacturing company for your products. Your products are one of the most important aspects of your business, so deciding who to trust with them is a big decision.
4 Helpful WaysTips to Prevent Defects in Common Plastic Injections : Bennett Plastics

4 Helpful WaysTips to Prevent Defects in Common Plastic Injections

September 23, 2024
When it comes to plastic injection molding, there's room for several errors. Quality issues in plastic injection-molded items range from negligible surface defects to severe problems that affect the performance, safety, as well as function of the final product. Often times, the flaws are linked to the material used, tooling design, molding process, or a combination of all three.
5 Great Benefits of Plastic Manufacturing in the U.S. : Bennett Plastics

5 Great Benefits of Plastic Manufacturing in the U.S.

September 23, 2024
Despite living in the world's greatest nation, it has become tough to find items labeled "Made in America" in recent times. In fact, according to the Washington Post, 98% of shoes worn in the US are made abroad. Then, when you think about plastics, food items, electronics, and a surplus of items used regularly that are made overseas, you may wonder if Americans are producing anything.
SHOW MORE