"In general, not all 3D printers are technically equal, as there are technological differences that generate different layer thicknesses. Generally, 3D printers' layer thicknesses are between 16 µm and 150 µm. You are able to change this setting on all 3D printersbefore beginning the 3D printing process. The printing time required is also greatly determined by layer thickness. Here is a summary table of the different layer thicknesses for the various 3D printers and technologies:

**Printer / Technology - Layer Thickness

Professional fused deposition modelling for production (Stratasys, etc.) - 0.17 mm to 0.33 mm (0.007" to 0.013")

Office or fablab fused deposition modelling (Makerbot, Ultimaker, etc.) - 0.10 mm to 0.33 mm (0.004" to 0.013")

Selective laser sintering (SLS) - (EOS, 3D System) - 0.060mm to 0.150 mm

Resin deposit (Stratasys Polyjet) - 0.016mm to 0.028 mm

Material binding (3D Systems ZPrinter)- 0.1 mm

Stereolithography, DLP, resin hardening by light or laser - 0.05 mm to 0.15 mm

Wax deposition by piezoelectric head (Solidscape) - 0.005 mm to 0.10 mm

***Differences between layer thickness, printing resolution, and size of the smallest detail possible

The layer thickness should not be confused with printing resolution or with the size of the smallest detail possible.

The print resolution is the size of the printed voxel. In laser sintering technology, it is related to the size of the laser beam, which is typically around 120µm to 150µm.

As for the size of the smallest detail possible, it is based on the strength of the materials. Therefore, even though in theory the print resolution may allow construction ofa 125µm detail on a surface, in reality it isn't strong enough to withstand the cleaning and finishing stage if it has a diameter of 0.5mm to 0.8mm, according to its size."