FDM vs FFF

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) describe the same 3D printing process, which involves extruding thermoplastic filament layer by layer to build a part. The method has become one of the most widely used additive manufacturing techniques because of its relatively low cost, material availability, and accessibility to both hobbyists and professionals. Despite the different names, the underlying process is identical in both cases.

The distinction between the terms comes from intellectual property rather than technology. Fused Deposition Modeling was coined and trademarked by Stratasys, one of the pioneering companies in the 3D printing industry. Because the name is protected, the broader community, particularly in the open-source sector, adopted the term Fused Filament Fabrication to describe the same process without infringing on trademark rights.

Today, both FDM and FFF are used interchangeably to describe extrusion-based 3D printing. In commercial and industrial contexts, FDM may be more common, especially when referring to Stratasys machines, while FFF is often seen in reference to open-source or consumer-grade printers. Regardless of terminology, the technology refers to the same foundational process in additive manufacturing.