Which print quality should I choose? 0.08 mm vs 0.12 vs 0.16 vs 0.20 mm
A buyer's guide to choosing between our four print qualities, with what changes at each layer height, what it costs, and a straight recommendation for figures, minis, desk pieces and gifts.
On this page
Every product page lets you pick one of four print qualities. They are four different layer heights: how thick each slice of plastic is as the printer builds the figure. This guide helps you choose without reading the technical background, which lives in layer height explained.
The short answer
- Display figure for a shelf: 0.12 mm.
- Gift you want to impress with: 0.12 mm or 0.08 mm.
- Mini or desk piece: 0.16 mm or 0.20 mm.
- Buying five or more on a budget: 0.20 mm.
What changes at each quality
| Quality | Name | What you see | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.20 mm | Standard | Fine lines visible up close, smooth at arm's length | Listed price |
| 0.16 mm | Fine | Smoother curves and faces | +5% |
| 0.12 mm | Extra fine | Layer lines hard to see at arm's length | +10% |
| 0.08 mm | Ultra fine | Maximum detail on faces, hands and folds | +15% |
The difference shows most on curved surfaces: cheeks, capes, robes, helmets. Flat and vertical surfaces look much the same at any quality.
Why finer costs more
Halving the layer height roughly doubles the number of layers, and each layer takes the printer about the same time to draw. A figure that takes two hours at 0.20 mm can take five at 0.08 mm. Machine time is the biggest part of the price, but we keep the step between qualities at 5% so the finest print is never more than 15% above the listed price. More on pricing in how much a 3D printed figure costs.
Recommendations by piece
Ledge sitters with capes and coats, like the Sad Jester Ledge Sitter or the Resting Swordsman Edge Sitter: 0.12 mm. The folds are the point of these figures, and that is where fine layers pay off.
Minis, like the Mini Dark Lord Figure: 0.16 mm is plenty. They are small, so each layer is a smaller share of the detail.
Pen holders and desk pieces, like the Dark Lord Pen Holder: 0.20 mm. They get handled every day, and function matters more than a flawless finish.
Something going under a lamp or into a glass cabinet: 0.08 mm. Close, raking light shows layer lines more than anything else.
Does quality change how long delivery takes?
Slightly. Finer qualities spend longer on the printer, but most orders still ship within the lead time on the product page. See how long 3D printing takes.
Frequently asked questions
Is 0.08 mm worth it over 0.12 mm?
For most shelf figures, 0.12 mm is the sweet spot. Choose 0.08 mm for pieces that will be seen up close under strong light, or for a gift where you want the very best finish.
Is 0.20 mm good enough?
Yes, for desk pieces, minis and anything seen from normal viewing distance. You will see fine layer lines if you look closely.
Does a finer print make the figure stronger?
No. Layer height mostly changes the surface finish. Strength comes from the walls and infill, which are the same across our qualities.
