The X-Tiles Video Series: Clear and Nickel-Plated 3D Prints, Pt. 3
Watch our video series, the X-Tiles, to help you distinguish between our 3D printing processes. In this release we're comparing nickel-plated prints and "clear" 3D printed parts to help you choose the best process for your project.
![Xometry Image](https://images.prismic.io/xometry-marketing/03c9dff3-aefe-46e3-aebd-5724abc7e977_20191010-X-Tiles-Blog-hero-no-words.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&rect=350%2C0%2C700%2C700&w=486&h=486&fit=max)
In Part 1 of our series, we explore differences between 3D printed parts made using various additive manufacturing processes. This continues in Part 2, where we compare more processes head-to-head to highlight their strengths and trade-offs. Now in Part 3 of our series, we'll highlight two common custom finishes for 3D prints: nickel plating and clear finishing.
What is an X-Tile? We took the ‘X’ from our Xometry logo and designed a custom part that is about 1.5 inches square. It has flats as well as angled surfaces. The tile is producible in multiple manufacturing processes and acts as a good comparison part for material finishes and cosmetic features like layers.
Video Comparison of Nickel-Plated 3D Prints
Video Comparison of “Clear” 3D Printed Parts
![Greg Paulsen - Xometry Contributor](https://images.prismic.io/xometry-marketing/9759abb2-e19d-42b3-9f04-dc8b672c240b_Greg+Paulsen+Headshot.png?auto=format%2Ccompress%3Fauto%3Dcompress%2Cformat&rect=0%2C0%2C800%2C800&w=300&h=300&fit=max)