The most common 3D printer filament types are PLA for ease of use and ABS for durability, but this guide covers the properties and uses of all major types. Choosing the right filament material affects print quality, strength, and application suitability. Each thermoplastic offers unique characteristics that make it ideal for specific projects and printer capabilities.
Key Takeaways
- PLA filament offers the easiest printing experience for beginners with minimal warping and no heated bed requirements.
- ABS provides superior heat resistance and mechanical strength but requires enclosed printers and proper ventilation.
- PETG combines the best properties of PLA and ABS with excellent layer adhesion and chemical resistance.
- Specialty filaments like carbon fiber and flexible materials expand printing capabilities for specific applications.
- Print temperature, bed adhesion, and storage conditions significantly impact filament performance and print success.
Understanding filament properties helps you match materials to your project requirements and printer capabilities.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
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PLA stands as the most popular choice among 3D printing materials, particularly for those seeking the best 3d printer filament for beginners. This bio-based polymer derives from renewable resources like corn starch and sugar cane, and can biodegrade under industrial composting conditions, though it breaks down very slowly in typical home or landfill environments. The material’s low glass transition temperature of around 60°C makes it easy to work with but limits high-temperature applications.
MatterHackers testing confirms that PLA exhibits minimal warping and excellent bed adhesion even without heated surfaces. The filament produces minimal odor during printing and requires no enclosure, making it suitable for home and office environments.
Properties
Key material properties to consider when printing with PLA include:
- Low printing temperature: 190-220°C extruder, no heated bed required.
- Minimal warping and shrinkage during cooling.
- Bio-based and industrially compostable under specific conditions.
- Good surface finish with vibrant color options.
- Limited heat resistance (softens around 60°C).
- Brittle nature makes it prone to cracking under stress.
Best For
Typical use cases where PLA performs well include:
- Prototyping and concept models.
- Decorative items and artistic prints.
- Educational projects and classroom use.
- Detailed miniatures and figurines.
- Indoor applications where heat resistance isn’t critical.
Print Settings
Recommended starting print settings for PLA are:
- Extruder temperature: 190-220°C
- Bed temperature: Room temperature to 60°C
- Print speed: 40-80 mm/s
- Layer height: 0.1-0.3mm
- Cooling: 100% fan speed after first layer
Wood filled pla filament variants offer unique aesthetic properties, allowing post-processing techniques like sanding and staining to achieve realistic wood-like appearances.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
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ABS filament delivers superior mechanical properties and heat resistance compared to PLA, making it ideal for functional parts and automotive applications. This petroleum-based thermoplastic maintains strength at elevated temperatures and offers excellent impact resistance. However, ABS requires more controlled printing conditions and proper ventilation due to styrene emissions.
The material’s higher glass transition temperature around 105°C enables applications where PLA would fail, but this same property contributes to warping and shrinkage challenges during printing.
Properties
Key performance characteristics of ABS to keep in mind when printing include:
- High impact strength and durability
- Heat resistance up to 100°C continuous use
- Good chemical resistance to many solvents
- Prone to warping without proper bed adhesion
- Emits styrene fumes requiring ventilation
- Excellent layer adhesion when printed correctly
Best For
ABS is best suited for applications such as:
- Automotive parts and under-hood components
- Electronic enclosures and housings
- Tools and jigs for manufacturing
- Toys and items requiring impact resistance
- Parts exposed to moderate heat and chemicals
Print Settings
Use these baseline print settings when dialing in ABS:
- Extruder temperature: 220-250°C
- Heated bed temperature: 80-100°C
- Print speed: 30-60 mm/s
- Enclosure recommended for large parts
- Minimal cooling to prevent layer separation
The PLA vs ABS vs PETG comparison often highlights ABS as the middle ground between ease of use and performance characteristics.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
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PETG combines the printing ease of PLA with enhanced mechanical properties approaching ABS performance levels. This glycol-modified polyester offers excellent clarity, chemical resistance, and impact strength without the warping issues associated with ABS. PETG has gained popularity as a versatile material suitable for both beginners and advanced applications.
The material’s excellent layer adhesion and minimal shrinkage make it reliable for large prints, while its chemical resistance opens possibilities for containers and medical applications.
Properties
When working with PETG, key material properties to note include:
- Excellent impact resistance and flexibility.
- Good heat resistance (glass transition 80°C).
- Chemical resistance to many common substances.
- Crystal clear transparency when printed properly.
- Minimal warping and excellent bed adhesion.
- Some PETG formulations are certified for food contact when printed and finished correctly, but food safety depends on using a certified filament, appropriate hardware, and following relevant regulations.
Best For
PETG performs well in use cases such as:
- Mechanical parts requiring durability and flexibility
- Protective cases and enclosures
- Food containers and kitchen items
- Medical devices and laboratory equipment
- Outdoor applications with moderate UV exposure
Print Settings
These starting settings work well for most PETG filaments:
- Extruder temperature: 220-250°C
- Bed temperature: 70-80°C
- Print speed: 30-50 mm/s
- Moderate cooling (30-50% fan speed)
- Slower retraction to prevent stringing
| Property | PLA | ABS | PETG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printing Difficulty | Easy | Moderate | Easy-Moderate |
| Heat Resistance | Low (60°C) | High (100°C) | Moderate (80°C) |
| Flexibility | Brittle | Tough | Flexible |
| Warping | Minimal | High | Low |
| Odor | None | Strong | Minimal |
When evaluating filament for outdoor use, PETG is a strong all-round choice thanks to its heat, moisture, and moderate UV resistance, though ASA often outperforms it for long-term exposure in harsh sunlight.
Flexible Filaments (TPU/TPE)
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Flexible filament 3d printing opens possibilities for creating rubber-like parts, gaskets, and wearable items. Thermoplastic elastomers like TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) and TPE offer elasticity measured on shore hardness scales, typically ranging from Shore 85A to 95A for printable grades. These materials require specific printer modifications and slower print speeds to achieve successful results.
The unique properties of flexible filaments make them ideal for applications requiring compression, bending, or shock absorption that rigid materials cannot provide.
Properties
Key characteristics that define flexible filaments include:
- High elasticity and compression resistance
- Excellent abrasion and tear resistance
- Chemical resistance to oils and solvents
- Shore hardness typically 85A-95A
- Challenging to print without proper setup
- Limited support material compatibility
Best For
Flexible filaments are especially suitable for:
- Phone cases and protective covers
- Gaskets, seals, and O-rings
- Wearable devices and fitness accessories
- Automotive bushings and vibration dampeners
- Toys and stress-relief items
Print Settings
Use these baseline settings as a starting point for TPU/TPE:
- Extruder temperature: 210-230°C
- Bed temperature: 40-60°C
- Print speed: 15-30 mm/s (very slow)
- Direct drive extruder preferred
- Minimal retraction to prevent jams
Evaluating tensile strength and elongation properties helps determine the appropriate flexible filament for specific mechanical applications.
Carbon Fiber Filaments
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Carbon fiber filament strength comes from chopped carbon fiber reinforcement mixed into base polymers like PLA, PETG, or nylon. These composite materials offer significantly improved stiffness and strength-to-weight ratios compared to standard filaments. The carbon fiber content typically ranges from 10-20% by weight, providing enhanced mechanical properties while maintaining printability.
Independent tests of carbon-fiber-reinforced filaments show significantly higher stiffness and strength-to-weight ratios than their base polymers, with some CF nylons and CF PEEK-class materials reaching tensile strengths in the tens of megapascals and even above 100 MPa, making them suitable for demanding structural prototypes.
Properties
Important properties to keep in mind for carbon fiber filaments include:
- High strength-to-weight ratio
- Excellent dimensional stability
- Reduced warping compared to base materials
- Abrasive to standard brass nozzles
- Matte black finish with visible fiber texture
- Higher cost than standard filaments
Best For
Carbon fiber composites excel in applications such as:
- Drone frames and aerospace components
- Automotive brackets and structural parts
- Tool handles and jigs requiring stiffness
- Sporting goods and performance equipment
- Lightweight structural prototypes
Print Settings
For best results with carbon fiber filaments, start with:
- Hardened steel or ruby nozzle required
- Temperature varies by base polymer
- Slower print speeds for quality
- Proper ventilation recommended
- Post-processing may reveal fiber alignment
The abrasive nature of carbon fiber requires hardened nozzles, but the resulting parts offer exceptional performance for weight-critical applications.
High Temperature Filaments
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High temperature 3d filament materials like PEEK, PEI, and PPS enable applications in extreme environments where standard thermoplastics fail. These engineering-grade polymers maintain mechanical properties at temperatures exceeding 200°C and offer superior chemical resistance. However, they require specialized printers with all-metal hot ends and heated chambers.
The glass transition temperatures of these materials often exceed 150°C, requiring print temperatures above 350°C and careful thermal management throughout the printing process.
Properties
Key performance properties of high-temperature filaments include:
- Continuous use temperatures above 200°C
- Excellent chemical and radiation resistance
- Biocompatibility for medical applications
- Requires specialized printer hardware
- Challenging bed adhesion and warping control
- Premium pricing compared to commodity plastics
Best For
These materials are typically reserved for:
- Aerospace and automotive under-hood parts
- Medical implants and surgical instruments
- Chemical processing equipment
- High-temperature tooling and fixtures
- Electronics requiring thermal stability
Some high-temperature materials, such as specific grades of PEEK and PEI, are used in food-contact or medical applications when they are certified and processed under the appropriate standards; however, food safety depends on material certification, hardware, and regulatory compliance, not just high printing temperatures
Storage and Handling Considerations
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Proper 3d printer filament storage ideas prevent hygroscopy, the absorption of moisture from air that can ruin print quality and cause material degradation. Most thermoplastics are hygroscopic to varying degrees, with nylon and PETG being particularly susceptible to moisture absorption. Vacuum-sealed bags with desiccants or heated storage containers maintain optimal filament condition.
Temperature fluctuations and UV exposure can also affect filament properties, making controlled storage environments essential for consistent printing results.
Storage Requirements
To keep your filament dry and printable, follow these storage guidelines:
- Airtight containers with desiccant packets
- Consistent temperature below 25°C
- Protection from direct sunlight and UV
- Vacuum-sealed bags for long-term storage
- Heated storage boxes for hygroscopic materials
- Regular moisture level monitoring
The cheapest 3d printing filament often requires more careful storage due to less sophisticated packaging and quality control compared to premium brands.
Print Settings and Optimization
Extruder nozzle temperature and heated bed adhesion settings directly impact layer adhesion quality and overall print success. Each material has optimal temperature ranges that balance flow characteristics with thermal degradation risks. Bed temperature affects first-layer adhesion and helps control warping and shrinkage during cooling.
Fine-tuning these parameters for your specific printer and environmental conditions often requires test prints and iterative adjustments to achieve optimal results.
Critical Parameters
These print parameters have the biggest impact on overall print success:
- Extruder temperature calibration for each material
- Bed leveling and surface preparation
- Cooling fan settings for layer bonding
- Print speed optimization for quality
- Retraction settings to minimize stringing
- Support material compatibility
Knowing how print speed, temperature, and cooling interact helps achieve consistent results across different filament types and printer configurations.
Related Platforms and Tools
Several platforms complement 3D printing filament selection and usage for complete project workflows.
Image Source: Corel
Corel
CorelCAD provides essential 3D modeling capabilities needed to create printable designs before filament selection becomes relevant. The software offers parametric modeling tools that help optimize designs for specific material properties and printing constraints.
Embark on a design journey with powerful tools for vector illustration, layout, photo editing, typography, and collaboration.
Image Source: Envato
Envato
Envato serves as a comprehensive marketplace for purchasing ready-to-print 3D models, eliminating design time while allowing focus on material selection. The platform offers models optimized for different filament types and printing capabilities.
11,896 WordPress Themes to start your new website with a bang sorted by best sellers. Beautiful templates for the world’s most popular content management system.
Image Source: Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock provides an alternative source for licensed 3D models and design assets suitable for printing projects. The platform offers quality-controlled models that work well with various filament materials and printer specifications.
Image Source: Kittl
Kittl
Kittl enables creation of 2D designs that can be extruded into 3D printable objects, particularly useful for text and logo applications. The tool helps bridge graphic design and 3D printing workflows when creating custom branded items.
Speed up your workflows with Kittl's AI-powered design tools and gain instant access to a ton of stunning illustrations, fonts, photos, icons, and textures.
Conclusion
Selecting appropriate 3D printing filament depends on your project requirements, printer capabilities, and experience level. PLA offers the easiest starting point, while ABS and PETG provide enhanced performance for demanding applications. Specialty materials expand possibilities but require additional expertise and equipment investments for successful implementation.
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FAQs
What Are The Different Types Of 3D Printing Filament?
There are several types of 3D printing filament, including PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and nylon. Each type has unique properties that make it suitable for specific applications, from easy-to-use PLA for beginners to flexible TPU for intricate designs. Our comprehensive guide details the characteristics and best use cases for each type.
How Do I Choose The Right 3D Printing Filament?
Choosing the right 3D printing filament depends on your project requirements, such as strength, flexibility, and temperature resistance. Consider factors like the printer compatibility, desired finish, and intended use of the printed object. Our expert reviews and comparisons can help you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
What Is PLA Filament Good For?
PLA filament is ideal for beginners and general-purpose printing due to its ease of use and low warping. It is perfect for creating prototypes, models, and decorative items. Our analysis highlights PLA’s strengths and limitations, helping you determine if it’s the right choice for your project.
What Is ABS Filament Good For?
ABS filament is known for its durability and heat resistance, making it suitable for functional parts and mechanical components. It’s commonly used in automotive and household items. Our reviews provide insights into ABS’s performance and how it compares to other filaments, ensuring you select the best option for your needs.
How Do I Store 3D Printing Filament?
To preserve the quality of 3D printing filament, store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in airtight containers with desiccants to minimize moisture absorption. Proper storage will prolong the lifespan of your filament and ensure optimal print quality. Our guides offer practical storage solutions based on expert recommendations.
Can I Use Any Filament With Any 3D Printer?
No, not all filaments are compatible with every 3D printer. Each printer has specific temperature and material requirements, so it’s essential to check your printer’s specifications before selecting a filament. Our expert articles provide detailed compatibility information to help you choose the right materials for your setup.
