3D printing, CNC or laser cutting - which process for your part?

Three machines, three jobs. Choosing the right one saves you money and gives a better result. Here is the short version.

3D printing - complex 3D shapes

Best for plastic parts with curves, hollows or intricate geometry: enclosures, brackets, prototypes, replacement parts. Great for one-offs and design iterations.

CNC routing - strong parts from solid material

Best when you need strength or a specific material: cutting and 3D-carving dense wood, panels and thicker stock. Stronger than a print for load-bearing parts.

Laser cutting - flat, fast, precise

Best for flat sheet work: signage, panels, gaskets and engraving on wood, acrylic, leather and fabric. Fast and extremely clean-edged.

Still not sure?

Tell us what the part needs to do - strong, light, detailed, cheap, fast - and we will recommend the process (or combine two). That advice is free.

Questions people ask

Which process is cheapest?

It depends on the part. Flat pieces are usually cheapest on the laser; complex 3D shapes on the printer; strong solid parts on the CNC. We quote the most cost-effective route.

Which makes the strongest part?

Generally CNC from solid material, or a 3D print in an engineering filament. We will match the method to the load the part must carry.

Can you combine methods?

Yes - many finished products use several: a CNC or laser-cut body with 3D-printed fittings, for example.