CNC Machining vs Injection Molding

CNC machining is flexible and does not require production tooling. Injection molding requires a mold, but can produce low unit costs at high volume.

CNC for early stages

CNC is useful for prototypes, functional testing, bridge production, and low-volume parts. Design changes are easier because no mold modification is required.

Molding for volume

Injection molding can become economical when volume justifies tooling cost. It also supports features and materials designed for molded production.

Transition planning

If the final part will be molded, design CNC prototypes with the future process in mind. Wall thickness, draft, ribs, and material behavior may differ.