First of all, 3D printing is an additive technology, and CNC machining is a subtractive technology, so they are very different in terms of materials. 3D printing materials mainly include liquid resin (SLA), nylon powder (SLS), metal powder (SLM), gypsum powder (full-color printing), sandstone powder (full-color printing), wire (DFM), sheet material (LOM) and many more. Liquid resin, nylon powder and metal powder occupy most of the market for industrial 3D printing.

The materials used for CNC machining are all plates, which are plate-like materials. By measuring the length, width and height of the parts + wear, then cutting the plates of the corresponding size for processing. There are more choices of CNC machining materials than 3D printing. General hardware and plastic plates can be CNC machined, and the density of molded parts is better than 3D printing.