A Comparative Guide to 4 Full-Color 3D Printing Technologies

Last modified: March 13, 2024
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In the world of full-color 3D printing, several techniques stand out for their quality and precision. Today, we’re comparing four such methods: Mimaki, PolyJet, ColorJet, and MJF. Each has its unique strengths, and we’ll delve into them with a detailed comparison. full-color-3D-model_FacFox R0010680 full-color-3D-model_FacFox-7 R0010688 Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing the key aspects of each technology:

Technique Height (mm) Weight (g) Post Process Price Smoothness Detail Pattern Clarity Color Fidelity
Mimaki 101.6 23.7 Default $$ 2nd Best Good Best
PolyJet 101.6 24.3 Clear acrylic oil coating $$$ 3rd Good Good Good
ColorJet 101.6 23.1 Default $ 4th Fair Fair Fair
MJF 101.6 14 Vapor smoothing $$$ Best Fair Best Good

Please note that the price may vary according to the height and structure of the 3D model. For example, the costs of these 10cm-high girl figurines: MJF ≈ PolyJet > Mimaki > ColorJet. But for 15cm-high figurines: Mimaki ≈ MJF ≈ PolyJet >> ColorJet.

Structure Detail

 Mimaki>PolyJet>MJF>ColorJet full-color-comparison-face_FacFox

  • Mimaki: Stands out with the best construction details, capturing the nuances of hair, facial features, and fingers with remarkable clarity.
  • PolyJet: Offers excellent detail close to Mimaki’s precision, though slightly less defined in the finer aspects.
  • MJF: Provides good detail with fair construction quality, suitable for designs where ultra-fine detail is not the priority.
  • ColorJet: Has poorer detail compared to the others, but still maintains a decent level of clarity overall.

Smoothness

MJF>Mimaki>PolyJet>ColorJet full-color-comparison-surface_FacFox

  • MJF: Offers a vapor-smoothed and polished finish, resulting in a glossy and smooth surface with the lightest weight among the options.
  • Mimaki: Delivers a high-quality matte finish with a smooth touch, slightly heavier than MJF but with a premium feel.
  • PolyJet: Comes polished and coated with clear acrylic oil, providing a glossy look but with more noticeable layer lines under light.
  • ColorJet: Presents a matte finish with the most visible layer texture, yet the overall look remains pleasing to the eye.

Pattern Clarity

full-color-comparison-line_FacFox
Boy: MJF>Mimaki>PolyJet>ColorJet
full-color-comparison-pattern_FacFox
  Girl: Mimaki>PolyJet>MJF>>ColorJet
  • Little Boy Figurine: MJF’s high contrast makes patterns pop, while Mimaki’s subtle color differences offer a more delicate approach. PolyJet is equal in force with Mimaki. ColorJet’s patterns may appear blurry but are still- distinguishable.
  • Little Girl Figurine: Mimaki again takes the lead with the clearest patterns and eye details, followed by PolyJet’s precise work. MJF and ColorJet fall behind, with MJF’s patterns appearing blurry and ColorJet’s colors mixing together.

Color Matching

Mimaki>MJF>PolyJet>ColorJet R0010682

  • Mimaki: Produces colors that are dark and low in saturation, closely resembling the gray tones of the original 3D model.
  • MJF: Shines with bright, vivid colors and high saturation, making it stand out in terms of vibrancy.
  • PolyJet: Tends to add a yellowish tint to even gray colors, resulting in a darker, less saturated finish.
  • ColorJet: Offers bright and highly saturated colors, with a tendency towards red, which can sometimes lead to color casting on other parts of the figurine.

R0010687 In conclusion, each technique has its unique advantages. Whether you prioritize smoothness, detail, pattern clarity, or color fidelity, FacFox’s figurine customization services cater to your specific needs. With our expertise and your vision, we’ll ensure that your custom figurines are nothing short of extraordinary. Start your project with us today and bring your colorful dreams to reality!

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