Injection molding is not suitable for early-stage proof-of-concept or look-liked models. However, it is crucial in later development stages for creating functional prototypes and pre-production models. These prototypes can verify form, fit, function, final appearance, and practicality, helping to avoid issues during mass production.

When a large number of prototypes are needed, injection molding becomes more cost-effective. The mold cost can be spread across multiple prototypes, reducing the unit price. Additionally, injection molding ensures consistent quality across all prototypes, making it increasingly advantageous as the quantity required grows.

Although 3D models and printed prototypes are valuable in initial stages, they don't fully replicate injection-molded parts. Using injection molding for prototyping helps identify and resolve several common issues:

- Surface and Appearance Defects: Many defects are only noticeable through actual injection molding.

- Uneven Wall Thickness: Improper wall thickness can lead to production failures and must be verified with real injection-molded parts.

- Gate Design: Correct gate location and type are critical for mold filling and part quality, requiring testing through injection molding.

- Dimensional Accuracy and Material Behavior: Parts may shrink or deform during injection molding, issues that can be detected and adjusted during prototyping.

Prototyping with injection molding not only validates all aspects of the design but also helps avoid potential design errors before production, ultimately saving time and money.