Comparison Guide: Types and Uses of 3D Printing Filaments

Best for: Prototypes, decorative items, bobbleheads, containers, architectural models

Not recommended for: High-wear toys, phone cases, heat resistant items

Variant/s: PLA+ (more durable version of PLA)

PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the best 3D printer filaments in the market because it’s easy to use, widely available, and biodegradable. It’s made from natural sources such as sugarcane and corn starch, making it odorless and sometimes, sweet-smelling.

It also has a low printing temperature. You won’t need to use a heating bed when using this filament because it doesn’t warp easily. On the contrary, it cannot withstand temperatures above 60°C. Don’t use it for products that will be exposed to heat.

If you’re working on 3D printing projects that need different colors and styles, PLA is a good choice. It’s also used as a base material for funky filaments such as glow-in-the-dark and wood-infused filaments.

One of its downsides is its brittleness. PLA has a lower tensile strength than ABS and PETG. This material is more suitable for aesthetic purposes rather than mechanical objects. When used for 3D printing, PLA is not food-safe because it tends to develop bacteria and molds.

Best for: Toys, automotive parts, kitchen appliances, musical instruments, industrial uses

Variant: ABS+ (reduced shrinkage and warping)

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a widely-used heat-resistant 3D printing filament. However, when it comes to everyday and casual use, it’s less popular than PLA. It’s more difficult to print. It also warps more. You need a hot print bed and bed adhesive to prevent it from warping.

Before using it, you must have a well-ventilated workspace. The fumes coming from melting ABS are toxic and foul-smelling.

Despite its drawbacks, ABS is superior to PLA. It has stronger material properties — it can withstand high temperatures and stress. Use it for objects you always handle, heat, or drop.

Best for: Functional objects or any items exposed to sudden or prolonged stress such as protective and mechanical components.

Base form: PET

Variant/s: PETT (more rigid than PETG)

PETG CF (PETG infused with carbon fiber - higher durability, easier printing, and better surface finish)

PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is known for its durability, flexibility, and resistance to high temperature and impact. You can use this in printing functional objects that will be exposed to sudden or prolonged stress.

This filament is clearer, easier to print, and less brittle compared to its base form (PET). If you’re torn between PLA and ABS, PETG can meet your needs halfway. It’s easy to print like PLA and it’s also flexible and durable like ABS.

When working with this filament, make sure to store it properly because it’s susceptible to moisture. Its surface also scratches easily.

Best for: High-wear objects or any items that you need to bend, stretch, or compress.

Variant/s: TPU (more rigid, more durable, and easier to print; can better maintain elasticity in the cold compared to TPE)

TPC (higher resistance to heat, chemical, and UV exposure).

TPE (thermoplastic elastomers) is a rubber-like filament used to produce stretchable and durable items. It can withstand stress and impact that PLA and ABS can’t handle. Because of its properties, you can use it in 3D printing automotive parts, toys, and medical supplies to name a few.

This filament is clearer, easier to print, and less brittle compared to its base form (PET). If you’re torn between PLA and ABS, PETG can meet your needs halfway. It’s easy to print like PLA and it’s also flexible and durable like ABS.

However, it can be difficult to extrude. It also has a slower printing speed. To solve this dilemma, you can use its variant, TPU, for a better 3D printing experience.

Best for: Functional prototypes, gears, mechanical parts, and aesthetic objects

Variant: Nylon CF (nylon infused with carbon fiber)

Nylon is a durable filament used to create functional prototypes, gears, and other mechanical parts. It has a high moisture property which makes it easy to dye before or after the printing process.

Like ABS, it also requires a high print bed and nozzle temperature. Not using a heated bed will lead to warping and subpar output. Though nylon is more difficult to print due to its high-temperature requirement, this exact property makes it tough and resistant to impact and abrasion.

Another challenging part of using nylon is its hygroscopic property or the ability to absorb moisture from the air. Even a short exposure to humidity can affect its quality. Using an exposed nylon filament in printing will leave “bubbles” in your 3D printed output instead of a smooth finish. Make sure to store it in a dry place to keep it in its optimal condition.

Best for: High-wear items such as automotive, electrical, and mechanical parts

PC (polycarbonate) is one of the strongest filaments, thanks to its durability and resistance to high temperatures and sudden physical impacts. It’s transparent and moderately flexible, making it a vital material in producing automotive, electrical, and mechanical components. Like nylon, polycarbonate is also hygroscopic so remember to store it properly to maintain its quality.

Best for: Outdoor applications, electrical installations, sports equipment, automotive parts

Considered as a substitute to ABS filament, ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) prints are rigid, strong, and heat-resistant. It’s best used for outdoor applications due to its high resistance to UV and harsh weather conditions. Also, it’s resistant to chemical exposure.

Though it’s considered as the improved version of ABS, ASA can still warp during printing. To prevent it, you need to use a heating bed. Take note that it’s also hygroscopic so make sure to store it in a cool, dry place.

Are you looking for the best filament for your 3D printing project? MakerCarl offers the following filaments: PLA, PLA+, ABS, ABS+, ABS Max, PETG, ASA, nylon, nylon CF, PETG CF, and TPU. Send us your ideas today!