3D printers are used in additive processes because they provide an efficient way to add or use materials to create different items. Using a 3D printer, you will create new things from scratch, such as jewelry, prosthetics, or even parts of buildings!
At the same time, the design of the laser engraving machine is based on subtraction. To get the new shape and design, some material had to be removed. So, what are the advantages of laser engravers and 3D printers?
Laser engravers are great for angled projects and those that require flat layers. At the same time, the benefit of a 3D printer is that it can be used to create irregular and wholesome 3D objects from scratch.
Laser cutters and 3D printers can be used at different stages of the product creation process. For example, you can use a 3D printer to prototype an affordable product before starting full-scale production. At the same time, you can use a laser cutter in the final stage to perfect the appearance of the product. Note that some people also use 3D printers in the final stages of product development.
Laser cutters are faster when creating prototypes and objects. Rather than using a printer to extract small shapes from wood, let your knife make a few cuts to get the job done. Using a 3D prototype takes time because you first have to generate the shape from its filament, which also incurs additional operating costs for the material.
Filaments must be used to create 3D printed objects, so they may not be effective in creating the desired functionality or aesthetic appeal of the output. But the filament can still be manipulated to change the appearance of the object. With a laser cutter, you can guarantee a wide range of material compatibility, so you can experiment.
Although laser cutters are more efficient, they are generally more expensive than 3D printers. So if you're looking for a cheaper alternative, you should consider a 3D printer, and spending more money on a laser cutter can guarantee your reliability.