FormHub vs Xometry: Belgian Alternative for CNC & 3D Printing
Xometry is one of the largest on-demand manufacturing platforms globally, connecting buyers with a vast supplier network. But for European engineers seeking personal service, transparent pricing, and local manufacturing, FormHub offers a compelling Belgian alternative. Here's how they compare.
- No hidden platform fees — you pay factory prices
- Direct communication with your manufacturing engineer
- All production within Belgium and the EU
- Faster lead times for European customers
- Full GDPR compliance — your CAD files stay in Europe
- Multilingual support in NL, FR, EN, DE
- Massive global supplier network with 10,000+ manufacturers
- AI-powered instant quoting for standard parts
- Strong presence in the US market
- Wide range of post-processing options
Verdict
Xometry is an excellent choice for US-based companies needing access to a massive global network. However, for European manufacturers and engineers who value personal service, transparent pricing without platform markups, and the assurance that their parts are produced within the EU, FormHub is the stronger choice. With faster lead times, GDPR-compliant data handling, and direct engineer support in your language, FormHub delivers the quality and reliability European buyers expect.
| Criterion | FormHub | Xometry |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Direct factory pricing, no platform markup | Marketplace markup included in the quoted price (based on publicly available information) |
| Lead Time | 3-5 business days typical | 5-10 business days typical |
| Minimum Order | No minimum order quantity | No minimum, but optimized for larger orders |
| Personal Support | Direct engineer contact, dedicated project manager | Automated platform, support via tickets |
| Manufacturing Location | Belgium & EU-based manufacturers | Global network (US, Asia, some EU) |
| Language Support | Dutch, French, English, German | Primarily English |
| Data Privacy | EU GDPR compliant, data stays in EU | US-based data storage |
| Supplier Network Size | Curated network of certified EU suppliers | 10,000+ global suppliers |
| Certifications | ISO 9001, ISO 13485, AS9100 available | ISO 9001, ITAR, AS9100 available |
FAQ
- Is FormHub a good alternative to Xometry in Europe?
- Yes. FormHub specializes in European manufacturing with Belgian and EU-based suppliers. You get direct engineer contact, no platform markup fees, and faster delivery times for European customers — all with full GDPR compliance.
- How does FormHub pricing compare to Xometry?
- FormHub offers direct factory pricing without the 15-30% platform markup that Xometry typically charges. This means you get competitive prices while still receiving personal service and quality assurance from certified EU manufacturers.
- Does FormHub offer the same services as Xometry?
- FormHub covers all major manufacturing processes including CNC machining (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis), 3D printing (SLA, SLS, MJF, FDM, metal), sheet metal fabrication, EDM, and injection molding. The key difference is that all production happens within the EU.
- Where are FormHub parts manufactured?
- All FormHub parts are manufactured by certified suppliers in Belgium and the European Union. This ensures shorter shipping times, EU quality standards, and full GDPR compliance for your technical drawings and CAD files.