Guide

Injection Molding Services Online: 9 Platforms Compared (2026)

Last updated: 2026-02-27

This process-intent guide compares online injection molding service options across nine platforms by lead time, MOQ behavior, quoting model, and compliance posture.

Injection Molding Comparison Table (9 Platforms)

PlatformService signalMOQ signalLead-time signalInstant quoteCompliance signal
XometryPrototype + production tooling injection molding1 unit / no MOQ (tooling economics apply)Dynamic model; quick-turn injection can be as fast as 5 business daysYesISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100D, ITAR, CMMC L2
ProtolabsOwn-factory injection molding plus network extension1 part; tooling NRE starts around $1,495Injection molding commonly 7+ daysYesISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100D, ITAR
HubsNetwork injection molding (production-oriented)Typically 50-10,000+ parts (inferred)Not publicly fixed; supplier dependentYesISO 9001 floor; AS9100D/ISO 13485 via suppliers; ITAR not supported on Hubs
FictivManaged-network molding (standard/overmolding/insert)No MOQ statedT1 samples as fast as 10 daysYesISO 9001; AS9100D/ISO 13485 via partners; SOC 2 Type II
JigaRFQ-based injection molding with prototype and production paths1 part (inferred)RFQ + supplier dependent; no fixed public SLANo (RFQ model)ISO 9001 platform; AS9100D/ISO 13485/ITAR interface on demand
SendCutSendInjection molding not listed as core public serviceNot publicly documentedNot publicly documentedNot publicly documentedMaterial certs on request for listed services
RapidDirectInjection molding including overmolding and insert moldingNo formal MOQ stated; low-volume molding commonly higher than 1 unitTypical low-volume molding windows around 2-4 weeksYesISO 9001, ISO 13485, IATF 16949
MeviyInjection molding not listed in current US service scopeNot publicly documentedNot publicly documentedNot publicly documentedISO 9001 context for listed MISUMI workflows
eMachineShopInjection molding listed among supported processesNo min/max order limits stated platform-wideQuote dependent; no canonical injection SLA tableYesITAR, JCP, CMMC; ISO 9001/13485 via partner network

Buyer Decision Guide

Choose by speed

Fastest published molding windows for eligible jobs are strongest on Xometry, Protolabs, and Fictiv. Validate tooling readiness and DFM status before purchase order issuance.

Choose by volume

Prototype and bridge volumes fit well on Xometry, Protolabs, and Fictiv. Higher-volume production-focused programs are frequently routed through Hubs and RapidDirect.

Choose by compliance

Xometry, Protolabs, and eMachineShop publish stronger explicit compliance posture. Hubs, Fictiv, and Jiga can route to certified suppliers depending on order requirements.

Choose by quote model

Most platforms are instant-quote-first for standard jobs. Jiga is RFQ-first and can be stronger for complex collaborative programs.

What Independent Users Report

Sources: Reddit (alternatives thread); Reddit (Protolabs Network); Trustpilot (Xometry); Trustpilot (Protolabs); Trustpilot (RapidDirect)

FAQ

What is the best online injection molding service?

There is no single best provider. Selection depends on lead-time targets, tooling budget, volume profile, resin constraints, and compliance requirements.

Which online injection molding service is cheapest?

Cost is highly part-specific. The practical method is comparing quotes for the same CAD package, material, volume, and delivery constraints.

Which platform is fastest for injection molding prototypes?

Xometry, Protolabs, and Fictiv publish the strongest fast-turn molding signals for eligible jobs, but actual timing depends on tooling and design complexity.

Can I order low-volume injection molding with no MOQ?

Several platforms support low-volume entry, but tooling economics still set practical minimum runs for many injection molding projects.

Which platform is strongest for compliance-heavy injection molding programs?

Xometry and Protolabs publish strong regulated-industry certification sets, and eMachineShop also publishes defense/compliance posture signals.

Is instant quote always better than RFQ for injection molding?

Not always. Instant quote is faster for standard jobs, while RFQ workflows can be better for complex geometry or atypical compliance requirements.

Related Pages

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