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Best 3d printer filaments


Best 3D Printing Filament in 2023

You've got the best 3D printer you can buy, but without materials, you can't get printing. If you chose a fused deposition modeling, or FDM, printer -- the most common type of 3D printer for hobbyists -- you'll need a few rolls of special plastic. The material we use for FDM 3D printing is called filament and it's an easy material to pick up. There are, however, different types of filament, each good for certain projects and terrible for others. You'll want to make sure you're using the best filament for the job at hand, or it may fail.

I've put together this primer of the different types of filament as well as choices of the best filaments from my favorite brands. This will be updated regularly and contains some great choices for you to start.

James Bricknell/CNET

It's important to choose both the right type of material and the right brand of that type, be it PLA, ABS or something more exotic. Here are the best of each of the five main filament types. 

Read more: Best 3D Printers

Those categories are:


  • PLA
  • ABS
  • PETG
  • TPU
  • Exotics

PLA is the easiest material to use to make awesome things.

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Polylactic acid


Polylactic acid, or PLA, is the most common 3D printing filament and the easiest to use. Unlike most plastics, it's made from corn starches so it is non-toxic and, in theory, compostable, though it takes an industrial composter to do it. PLA uses a fairly low heat -- between 190 and 215 degrees Celsius (or between 374 and 419 degrees Fahrenheit) -- to melt the plastic for extrusion so it is the safest of the filaments. Almost every FDM 3D printer in the world can print PLA. 

PLA pros

  • Nontoxic
  • No awful smell
  • Easy to use for a beginner
  • Almost universally usable on any FDM printer
  • Very cheap

PLA cons

  • Can require a lot of sanding
  • Can easily warp in the sun or high-temp environments
  • Can be brittle

MatterHackers

MatterHackers Build PLA

Best overall

Build PLA from MatterHackers is great for projects that require finishing (sanding, painting and so on). I have about 12 rolls of it in my workshop, and use it for large projects, including my Mandalorian armor or cosplay swords. The dimensional accuracy -- how consistent the diameter is along the length of the roll -- is good, though nothing mind-blowing. It's well within the sweet zone.

Post-processing is where Build Series PLA shines. It is simple to sand and holds paint well, as long as you use a good primer and filler first. Like all PLA, it holds together well using superglue and even takes putty and Bondo without complaint. 

$21 at MatterHackers

Flashforge

Flashforge Burnt Titanium PLA

The best metallic look ever

The color of this PLA is hard to describe, but it is beautiful. It has a purple-blue-green hue to it and looks like metal that's been heated up a lot. Right now it's probably my favorite-looking filament on my shelf.

It's also easy to print with, and because of the shifting colors it hides layer lines well. If you're looking for a dark filament that you aren't painting over, I'd pick up a few rolls of this today.

$24 at Amazon

MatterHackers

MatterHackers Quantum PLA

Something new and exciting

For something completely different in the PLA world, check out Quantum by MatterHackers. Transitional filament, mixing multiple colors, has been around for a while, but it normally changes color across the length of the material. This causes it to change color as it goes further up the model.

Quantum is actually two colors fused across the entire width, so you get an amazing transition from left to right. It's absolutely mesmerizing, and I love using it for all sorts of different projects. From vases to giant articulated octopuses, it makes any model look breathtaking. 

$37 at MatterHackers

Cookiecad

CookieCad Mint chip

It's ice cream that won't melt!

I have been meaning to buy some of this beautiful filament for some time now, and I'm really happy I did. The color is almost exactly the same as Mint choc chip ice cream and the tiny flecks of marble color enhance the look even more. It prints great, with a nice glossy finish, and I found printing it at a higher temperature brings out that gloss really well. 

More importantly than the print quality though, I love it for the way it makes me feel. The color just makes me happy and reminds me of days at the beach with my kids. It's gorgeous.

$35 at Amazon

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Sunlu

Sunlu PLA

Best on a budget

Sunlu is one of those filaments that is really easy to get hold of and prints well every time you use it. It says its dimensional accuracy is +/- 0.02mm, but I've been lucky to never have the variance above 0.01mm in hands-on use. 

Sunlu also comes in some beautiful matte colors, which is a welcome break from more common shiny filaments. Sanding and printing with it is easy. If you're new to 3D printing and need to increase your collection of PLA, this is a cheap way to do it.

$16 at Amazon

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James Bricknell/CNET

Creality short transition rainbow PLA

So many colors!

Rainbow filament tends to transition between colors very slowly. This means you often get only one or two colors per model. Creality's latest rainbow filament has a much shorter transition, so you get a much nicer rainbow effect across your models. It looks great on this amazing dragon from Fotis Mint.

$26 at Amazon

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Polymaker

Polymaker PolyTerra

Environmental thinking

For projects you can show off without having to paint them first, PolyTerra might be for you. The colors are vivid, and because they are matte, you don't lose details in the reflections like with shiny filament.

PolyTerra also comes in recycled cardboard reels, and the creator, Polymaker, will plant a tree in the area where the roll was bought to help offset the cardboard used. This filament is still plastic of course, but it helps my conscience to use it.

$20 at Amazon

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Ataraxia Art

Ataraxia Art

Bouncy bouncy

In this article about this flexible PLA I explained how, although this isn't technically PLA, it does print much easier than TPU, a more common flexible filament. I used it to print an amazing Mandalorian Blacksmith helmet for my 4-year-old. She can't break it because it's so bouncy.

This isn't for newbies, though. It took a lot of trial and error to get the setting for my 3D printer right, and because it is so soft the accuracy can be pretty wonky. But for something that's different from normal PLA, it is worth checking out. 

$35 at Amazon

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Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene


ABS was one of the more 3D printing filaments a few years back, and it still has some excellent uses. The biggest downside is the toxicity. You don't want to breathe in ABS as it melts, so you'll need a well-ventilated area. That aside, it's sturdier and more heat-resistant than PLA. Most printers can print ABS, but you'll need a heated bed that can reach 100 degrees Celsius for best results and protecting your printing job in an enclosed printer is a good idea. 

ABS pros

  • Can withstand a lot of heat
  • Easy to sand
  • Can be smoothed with acetone for a perfect shine

ABS cons

  • Its fumes are toxic so it requires ventilation 
  • It needs far more heat to print than PLA
  • You will need an enclosure to get good results

Inland

Inland 1.

75mm Black ABS

Cheap and cheerful

Inland makes good filament across the board and its ABS is no different. I've never had issues with the dimensions, and the final product has consistent layer lines. Sanding Inland ABS is a joy as the material can be wet-sanded to a smooth finish.

$20 at Amazon

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MatterHackers

Fillamentum ExtraFill ABS

Bright and beautiful

Fillamentum is one of my favorite ABS makers. The colors are always so vibrant, and while it costs a little more than the competition, it keeps that vibrancy even after the model is finished printing. If you're looking for ABS that you don't need to paint, Fillamentum is a great place to start.

$45 at MatterHackers

Polyethylene terephthalate glycol

PETG is chemically similar to the plastic that water and soft drink bottles are made of, and is a great alternative to ABS. It has the heat-resistant properties of ABS without the toxic fumes and can be sanded much like PLA. Most FDM printers that can print PLA can print PETG, though it takes a little more effort to get right.

PETG pros

  • Easier to print than ABS
  • Holds a finish well
  • Easier to store than other filaments

PETG cons

  • Requires high temps, which can damage printer parts over time. 

Matterhackers

MatterHackers Pro series PETG

Glorious colors

The Pro series filament from MatterHackers is a much nicer product than a lot of standard PETG. Yes, it costs a little more, but it's designed to help reduce some of the issues that filament suffers from. It reduces shrinkage, so the part you make is as close to the part you designed as possible. This is a great material for those who make 3D printed models for a living, rather than a hobby.

$57 at MatterHackers

Overture

Overture PETG Filament 2-pack

Stock up on your PETG

Overture PETG is a favorite because it comes in an economical two-pack, making it ideal for multiple or larger jobs. I've used a lot of Overture products, including PETG and PLA, and they always print well. I once printed an 11-foot-long Masamune sword using Overture and it came out looking awesome.

$39 at Amazon

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Thermoplastic polyurethane

TPU is a flexible material that can make cool rubbery models. Most people use it to 3D print phone cases, but more serious modelers often use it to create connectors or flexible hinges to other materials. It can be a difficult material to work with and is best used on a direct-drive 3D printer such as the Prusa Mk3s, rather than a Bowden printer like the Anycubic Vyper. A direct drive printer places the gears to move the filament directly on the print head, while a Bowden setup has them on the frame of the printer. 

TPU pros

  • Flexible
  • Won't warp in the heat
  • Available in fun colors

TPU cons

  • Terrible for making solid prints
  • Hard to work with on budget printers

NinjaTek

Ninjaflex TPU 500 grams

The original and best

While Ninjaflex is at the high end of what you should pay for filament, it is definitely the easiest TPU I have worked with. Save this pricey material for more serious projects that need to succeed the first time.

$30 at Amazon

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MatterHackers

MatterHackers Build Series TPU

For everyday use

MatterHackers Build Series Materials sit in the perfect balance between usability and cost. Yes, I've had failures with the Build Series, but once you get it dialed into your printer, you can make dozens of fun, springy models. 

I like to use it to make fun toys for my kid's preschool as they can be thrown around with no fear of breaking into small, sharp pieces.

$29 at MatterHackers

Exotic filaments

Exotic filaments are ones that are outside the normal five choices, or interesting variations on those choices. They're often PLA mixed with carbon fiber or glow-in-the-dark chemicals and something that prints outside the normal parameters of a 3D printer. You'll often need to upgrade your printer nozzle to use these. It's advanced stuff, but I wanted to show you my favorite glow-in-the-dark filament, which is fun to print with.

Amolen PLA

Amolen PLA Filament Glow in The Dark Multicolor PLA

Get a good glow on!

Glow-in-the-dark filament normally comes in a standard "radioactive" green, but this beautiful roll transitions through multiple colors. It's simply gorgeous. 

It's also worthwhile to buy some replacement brass nozzles for your printer as glow-in-the-dark filament can chew them up pretty quickly because the glowing material is more abrasive than standard colors. 

$38 at Amazon

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Filament FAQ

What filament should I start with?

If you're buying a printer for the first time, the best choice of filament is PLA. It is the easiest to print with, the safest in terms of fumes and the most readily available. Think about laying in a store of PLA when you first start. A 1-kilogram roll feels like a lot, but once you get the itch, materials get eaten up quickly.

Are there different sizes of filament?

Yes. There are two main thicknesses of filament and if you get them mixed up, your machine won't print. 

1.75mm filament is the most common. It's been adopted by most of the 3D manufacturers in the world and if you have an entry-level printer, it's likely to run on 1. 75mm filament.

Some 3D printers still use the thicker 3mm style, though, so make sure you know which one yours uses before you spend a lot of money on the wrong material.

Are all filaments toxic?

When 3D printing with any filament, it is important to remember that you are essentially burning plastic. Inhaling that kind of thing is never going to be good, but not all filaments are equally bad.

Of the four main filament types, ABS is easily the most toxic. You shouldn't think about printing it unless you have a well-ventilated space away from your day-to-day living spaces. I have a workshop with a full ventilation system and the fumes can still be pretty bad.

Both PLA and PETG are considered nontoxic, though you still want to keep your area ventilated as you use them. Both filaments are safe to print inside your home and while the fumes can smell pretty bad, they're not classed as carcinogenic. While other forms of TPU can be toxic, the filament you use for 3D printing is considered nontoxic and nonreactive so you should be fine printing that as well.

Does the filament keep the same color after printing?

Normally yes. If your printer isn't calibrated well, it could burn the filament, which would discolor it. But normally the color accuracy is pretty close. 

A special note on clear plastics: You will not be able to get a completely translucent print with filament. The nature of the printing process makes any clear plastic misty and infill makes it blurry as well. If you are looking to print glass-like models, you will need a resin printer.

Having the right diameter makes for a better print.

Dan Ackerman/CNET

How we test filament


The testing of filament is mainly focused on a few details: Dimensional accuracy, winding precision, and printing quality. Winding precision is a visual test where I check to make sure the filament works well on the spool, without any crossovers that can cause snags while printing.

Print quality is done using a CNET calibration test that I use to test all of the 3D printers I review. When checking for filament quality, I'm looking for noticeable roughness and missing filament where moisture or other contaminants have interrupted the process of melting and cooling.

James Bricknell/CNET

Dimensional accuracy is perhaps the most important test as it measures the consistency of filament. As you move along, the filament changes in diameter will cause the 3D printer to over- or under-extrude filament. This creates noticeable scarring in your model, or worse, complete failure. You want the material to have the same diameter the whole way through. 

To measure the accuracy, I take a 5-meter piece of filament from the beginning, middle and end of the roll and measure the diameter at four equally spaced points. I then add all of those measurements up and divide the total by 12 -- the total number of measurements taken -- to give me an average across the roll. Most modern printers use 1.75mm filament so you want the filament to be as close to that as possible. 

Great filament has a variance of +/- 0.02mm, good filament is +/- 0.03mm and rough filament is anything +/- 0.05mm. All of the filaments we have recommended here are at least 0.03mm on average.

The Best 3D Printer Filaments in 2023

Good news: There’s now a huge range of 3D printer filaments for 3D printers, allowing hobbyists and professionals to create an almost unlimited variety of objects. That includes not just a vast range of colors, but also filaments that provide realistic simulations of stone, wood, and metal.

Without an understanding of the different 3D filament materials, results can be disappointing, so we’re taking an in-depth look at the pros and cons of the various types of 3D filament, and offering our suggestions for which are the best 3D printer filaments for a wide range of projects.

— Best Overall: Sunlu PLA 3D Filament
— Best Value: Overture PLA 3D Filament
— Best ABS: HATCHBOX ABS 3D Filament
— Best Carbon Fiber: Priline Carbon Fiber Polycarbonate 3D Filament
— Best Metal: CC3D Silk Metallic PLA 3D Filament

How We Picked the Best 3D Printer Filaments

We have examined the range of 3D printers several times, and some of these best 3D printers gave us useful background knowledge. However, in order to put together a comprehensive 3D filament review we carried out further research with varying key factors that impacted our top picks.

Materials: There are more than a dozen different materials used for 3D printer filaments. Some are common, while others are highly specialized. It is impractical to cover all of them so it was important for us to understand their properties in order to offer solutions for a wide range of popular 3D projects.

Performance: Even among 3D filament materials that are seemingly the same, there can be considerable differences in terms of stability, strength, and ease of use. We looked at technical and practical information before making our choices.

Brand: There’s nothing worse than the failure of a project due to poor 3D printer filament. While the brand names may not be well known to 3D printing beginners, we only chose material from manufacturers with a recognized reputation for quality products.

Note: In order for us to make direct comparisons, each of our top picks is a 2. 2-pound 3D printer spool with a filament diameter of 1.75mm. Temperatures are given in Celsius, which is common practice among manufacturers.

Best 3D Printer Filaments: Reviews and Recommendations

Best Overall: Sunlu PLA 3D FilamentQuality, Consistency, and Choice. Sunlu

Why It Made The Cut: Sunlu’s high-quality PLA 3D filament offers several advantages. The even diameter delivers trouble-free use, the results are consistent, and finished items offer good durability.

Specs:

— Extrusion Temperature: 190 to 230 degrees Celsius
— Bed Temperature: 25 to 60 degrees Celsius
— Dimensional Accuracy: ±0.02mm

Pros:

— Consistent quality and stability
— Stronger than normal PLA
— Compatible with 99 percent of FDM 3D printers

Cons:

— Not food-safe
— Occasional clogging reported

With such a wide and varied choice available, picking the best 3D printer filament isn’t easy. However, Sunlu’s PLA has a combination of user-friendly features that make it very popular and according to the manufacturer, it works with 99 percent of FDM 3D printers.

The material itself delivers consistent quality, and has a class-leading dimensional accuracy (the amount the diameter of the filament varies) of ±0.02mm, which is less than a thousandth of an inch. It’s easy to use with smooth flow and minimal stringing. The high purity results in very little shrinkage and good bonding of each consecutive layer, so it’s suitable for large models. Sunlu also rates their PLA 3D filament as up to five times stronger than standard PLAs.

Sunlu PLA 3D filaments are available in a huge range of colors and finishes, including glow-in-the-dark, marble, wood, silks, and metallics. They can be sanded and painted (oils, enamels, and acrylics work well). They are also biodegradable, though not rated as food-safe. While a few buyers have reported clogging, the percentage is very small and machine setup could be at fault.

Best Value: Overture PLA 3D FilamentSmooth and Stable. Overture

Why It Made The Cut: Overture have focused on two of the most common problems with their PLA 3D filament; making it bubble-free and non-clogging to provide smooth, stable printing.

Specs:

— Extrusion Temperature: 190 to 230 degrees Celsius
— Bed Temperature: 25 to 60 degrees Celsius
— Dimensional Accuracy: ±0.03mm

Pros:

— Clog- and bubble-free
— Doesn’t need a heated bed
— Useful guide for remaining filament

Cons:

— Cardboard spool
— Patchy quality control

Overture PLA 3D printing filament is another popular choice, particularly among hobbyists. It’s designed to be fuss-free to set up and use, with a patented anti-clogging formula. Overture claims it will work with most FDM 3D printers, and while a heated bed is recommended (which is true of all filaments), it will also work without one.

Its dimensional accuracy is 0.03mm, which is something of an industry standard. The cardboard spool is not everyone’s favorite, and a few people suggest it can cause drags or snatches during printing, however, these complaints are few. This filament also has cutouts that provide a useful visual guide to the amount of material remaining. 

The obvious comparison is with our top 3D PLA printer filament from Sunlu. The standard Overture PLA is not as tough, and while an Overture PLA+ version is available, it is more expensive. Overture’s color range isn’t quite as extensive either, though there is still plenty of choice, and it can be painted.

Generally speaking, Overture PLA is a quality 3D filament. However, there have been reports of poorly wound spools, and filaments snapping. This suggests that quality control isn’t always as good as it could be.

Best ABS: HATCHBOX ABS 3D FilamentHighly Resilient Material. Hatchbox

Why It Made The Cut: HATCHBOX is widely recognized as producing a range of high-quality 3D materials. Their ABS filament is popular for its toughness and greater resistance to warping than many competitors.

Specs:

— Extrusion Temperature: 210 to 240 degrees Celsius
— Bed Temperature: 90 to 110 degrees Celsius
— Dimensional Accuracy: ±0.03mm

Pros:

— Withstands high temperatures and UV
— Ductile and impact resistant
— Make figures or functional parts

Cons:

— Toxic fumes
— Projects may warp

HATCHBOX materials frequently feature at the top of independent 3D printer filament reviews and are known for their quality and consistency. HATCHBOX ABS prints at higher temperatures than PLA, and the resulting pieces are both tough and resistant to heat and UV. They also offer good ductility, meaning they are capable of absorbing impact without cracking. This makes HATCHBOX ABS a good choice for functional mechanical parts as well as models.

The main problem with ABS is its tendency to curl up from the printer bed initially, or warp during production. HATCHBOX ABS is noted for its stability, though a heated bed is something of a necessity, and an enclosed case is recommended to prevent cold air causing problems. Something to keep in mind is that ABS is petroleum-based and the fumes are toxic, so good ventilation is also important. This makes HATCHBOX ABS more challenging than PLA to print well, but the reward is the durability of the finished components.

 This 3D printer filament comes in a wide range of colors, is capable of producing fine detail, and usually has a smooth, shiny finish; however, it does not come in the wood, silk, and metallic finishes available from some PLA brands.

Best Carbon Fiber: Priline Carbon Fiber Polycarbonate 3D FilamentIncreased Component Strength. Priline

Why It Made The Cut: Priline’s high-performance blend of carbon fiber and polycarbonate results in a 3D printer filament that can produce durable, accurate components while remaining user-friendly.

Specs:

— Extrusion Temperature: 240 to 260 degrees Celsius
— Bed Temperature: 80 to 100 degrees Celsius
— Dimensional Accuracy: ±0. 03mm

Pros:

— High strength to weight ratio
— Good heat resistance
— Minimal warping

Cons:

— Expensive
— Not pure polycarbonate

Carbon fiber is known for its outstanding strength to weight ratio. Polycarbonate is very tough, and has high impact resistance (it’s often used for hard hats). Priline’s carbon fiber polycarbonate filament combines these two materials in a single 3D printer filament that delivers the benefits of both. Finished parts are very hard, and rigid without being brittle.

One of the drawbacks of pure polycarbonate is that it demands 3D printer temperatures above 300 degrees Celsius. Priline overcomes this by adding chemicals to reduce the heat required, to resemble more common filament levels. While this results in some loss of strength when compared to commercial 3D filaments, it still exceeds PLA and ABS. The components produced can also withstand temperatures of up to 140 degrees Celsius.  

Carbon fiber 3D printing filaments are only available in matte black, though printed items can be painted using a plastic primer, followed by enamel or acrylic. An enclosed printer is recommended for optimum durability and maximum precision. For those who want to explore the abilities of carbon fiber, Proline also produces filament for 3D printer use that is blended with PLA and PETG.

Best Metal: CC3D Silk Metallic PLA 3D FilamentHigh-Quality Effects. CC3D

Why It Made The Cut: Specialist filament maker, CC3D, offers a wide selection of ‘silk’ finish PLAs that accurately mimic metals without the extremely high cost of a full-on 3D metal printer.

Specs:

— Extrusion Temperature: 195 to 220 degrees Celsius
— Bed Temperature: 40 to 60 degrees Celsius
— Dimensional Accuracy: ±0.05mm

Pros:

— High-shine metallics without post-processing
— Works with almost all FDM 3D printers
— Zero odor and eco-friendly

Cons:

— Not real metal
— Not for functional components

True 3D metal printing with aluminum and steel is a practical reality in industrial environments, but the big drawback is the associated cost. Even desktop machines are $100,000 or more with materials starting at $300 per kilogram. The alternative for hobbyists, and model makers is what is generally termed silk metallic 3D PLA filament, like that from CC3D. 

This filament has a smilar ease of use to standard PLA and can be used with most FDM 3D printers. It has a smooth, reflective finish straight off the machine with no post-processing, and can mimic copper, silver, or gold. What’s more, production gives off no harmful fumes and prices are little more than standard PLAs.

CC3D Silk Metal 3D filament is recommended by leading machine maker, Creality (which headed our selection of 3D printers for beginners). Elastomers (rubber-like plastics) have been added to this filament to give improved durability and impact resistance. Clogging is rare, and normally CC3D’s metal filament does not warp. However, while it can make some impressive display pieces, it does not have the structural strength for functional parts.

Things To Consider Before Buying 3d Printer Filaments

Material Type

The main decision when choosing the best 3D printer filaments for any project (aside from what to print and how, with 3D modeling software) is the type of material. The three most popular are:

— PLA (Polylactic acid): Anything that has acid in the title sounds dangerous, but in fact PLA is largely made from plant starch (typically corn, maize, or sugar cane). It is safe, has almost no odor, and is biodegradable. PLA is the most popular 3D filament material for beginners because of its ease of use.

PLA is inexpensive, and quite strong, but it isn’t UV-resistant so it will degrade in bright sunlight and it also has moderate resistance to heat. As a result, it is best used for display items or prototyping, rather than actual production. This is a popular choice for figures or models that will be painted afterwards. PLA may also have other materials added to produce realistic metal, stone, or wood effects.

— PETG (Polyethylene terephthalate with glycol): PETG is a relative newcomer, but it’s quickly becoming popular. It usually requires a little more heat than PLA and is not quite as forgiving to use. Oozing and stringing can be problems, and the surface finish can be less smooth.

However, PETG is generally tougher and, depending on formulation, usually has greater heat and UV resistance. It also has a degree of flexibility whereas PLA can be brittle. As a result, it has more practical applications and there should be no problems using it outdoors. When blended with carbon fiber, it can produce particularly strong, functional parts.

— ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene): Before PETG, ABS was the filament of choice for those wanting greater strength and durability than PLA. It is still probably the second-most popular 3D printing filament material. Like PETG, ABS requires higher machine temperatures, but finished items have good heat-, impact- and wear-resistance. Care does need to be taken post-printing, as ABS contracts as it cools and parts may warp. So-called Pro-ABS can be used for accurate prototyping or small production runs.

There are lots of specialist materials available. Thermoplastics (TPC, TPE, and TPU) produce flexible forms not unlike rubber, while polyoxymethylene (POM) is good for precision engineering parts, and nylon and polycarbonate are among the strongest materials. However, each of these is challenging to print and may require higher temperatures than hobby machines generate. They can also be much more expensive. As you progress with your 3D printing, you may want to investigate these alternatives, but their behaviors are beyond the scope of this article.

Printing Parameters

Good temperature control is vital to successful 3D projects, so it is important to understand the requirements of each filament. Our top picks all fall within the parameters of most hobby machines, but it is always important to check printer capabilities before buying 3D filament.

Color/Effects Range

If you have found a material that you like working with, it’s nice to know there are plenty of alternative colors or finishes so that you don’t have to start all over again with a different brand, although you should never assume each 3D filament from a manufacturer will behave the same. Temperatures will often change between plain PLA and silk versions, for example. Always read the instructions of each new spool.

FAQs

Q: Is PETG filament better than PLA?

It’s not really a question of which is better, because both have their pros and cons as discussed above. Briefly, PETG is stronger and more durable than PLA, but PLA is more forgiving to work with, and often prints more quickly.

Q: Are 3D printer filaments toxic?

Some 3D printer filament types produce toxic fumes. Even those that are non-toxic can release ultrafine particles (UFMs) during printing that can irritate airways and damage the respiratory system. It’s important to make sure you have adequate ventilation or a particle filter, and 3D printers should not be operated in bedrooms.

Q: Does the filament keep the same color after printing?

It should, at least initially. The ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight can cause both PLA and ABS filaments to fade eventually, though many have UV-resistant additives. PETG is recommended for items that will be used outdoors because it has high UV resistance.

Q: Can 3D printer filaments go bad?

3D filaments can go bad, but it usually takes some time. If stored according to manufacturer's advice most have a shelf life (storage time) of around two years, but nylon usually had a shelf life of one year. Cheap 3D filament may go bad sooner, and it can be difficult to tell how long filament has been kept at a budget supplier before being sold. This should not be a problem from reputable sources.

Q: How long can you leave PLA filament out?

The simple answer is that it is best not to leave PLA filament out because it can absorb water, and may swell or become brittle. However, most user’s experience is that in modest humidity, a few days should make little or no difference.

Q: What materials cannot be 3D printed?

Anything that would ignite rather than melt cannot be 3D printed. This would normally include paper, wood, and many natural fabrics, however, wood particles like birch, cedar, and pine have been successfully blended with PLA to produce realistic wood filaments.

Final Thoughts on the Best 3D Printer Filaments

Sunlu PLA is a fine example of the benefits of this popular material. It is tougher than standard PLA, but just as forgiving to use. It is high-quality but affordable and comes in a vast range of colors and finishes. The Overture PLA is a very close runner-up, and we doubt buyers would be disappointed with either. However, for high-strength prototypes or working models it is worth spending extra for Priline's carbon fiber polycarbonate.

This post was created by a non-news editorial team at Recurrent Media, Futurism’s owner. Futurism may receive a portion of sales on products linked within this post.


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Best 3D Printer Filaments (Review 2021)

Once you've chosen your 3D printer, you need to choose the type of filament intended for your project. Filament is a raw material used in 3D printers that will be heated to a high temperature to turn it into a semi-solid state. At this point, the printer can easily create the appropriate design layers and print the entire 3D CAD model onto a plate.

However, as you research the various 3D printer filaments, you will hear of numerous materials that can only make it harder to choose the right one for you. This is especially true for people who are just starting to explore the world of the 3D printing process. nine0003

While most of us are not new to PLA and ABS, there are other fiber materials you should be aware of such as HIPS, PET, PETG, TPE, TPU, TPC and a few others. And to get a better idea of ​​them, here are some of the more typical types of 3D printer filaments available on the market.

3D Printer Filament Types

PLA Filament

Polylactic acid (PLA) reigns supreme in the industrial 3D printing world. 3D printing with PLA is so easy. It has a lower plate temperature, so it doesn't need a heating bed and therefore has fewer warping issues. nine0003

It is widely used in prototyping, such as printing low-wear toys, prototype parts and containers. Please note that it cannot be used for anything that has a temperature rating of 60°C or higher as it warps at 60°C. For all other purposes, PLA is suitable for a general 3D printer.

ABS Filament

ABS (also known as Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is the second most popular 3D printing filament. In general, ABS withstands high loads and high temperatures. Thus, it is suitable for most applications. It is great for items that are frequently handled, dropped or heated. For example, mobile phone cases, high-wear items, automotive trim parts, and electronic houses. nine0003

Nylon filament

Nylon is the preferred family of synthetic polymers for many industries, professional 3D printing being one of them. As for other forms of filament, they have better performance, efficiency, versatility and durability. Given the strength and versatility of nylon, this type of 3D printer filament can be used to make loops, buckles or gears, as well as working prototypes.

PET (G) thread

The most widely used plastic in the world is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It is best known as water bottle thread, but it is also used in clothing fibers as well as food containers. Although PET is commonly used in 3D printing, its modified version PETG is becoming more common.

The G in PET stands for glycol, resulting in a more transparent filament that is less prone to cracking and easier to use. PETG is versatile but surpasses many forms of 3D printer filament in its strength and inability to reach high temperatures or withstand strong impacts. The fulfillment of the following conditions makes it an excellent choice for 3D printing filament for practical parts such as mechanical parts, printer parts, and protective materials. nine0003

TPE, TPU, TPC filament

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPE) is a flexible and durable plastic similar to rubber. In addition, TPE is mainly used for the production of auto parts and household appliances.

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyester E) is a special form of TPE that is very common among high end 3D printers. Compared to conventional TPE, TPU is significantly more flexible, hence allowing more control during printing.

What's more, TPC (Thermoplastic Copolyester) is also another form of TPE that is not as widely used as TPU. The key advantage of TPC over TPE is its greater resistance to chemical and UV attack, as well as heat (up to 150°C). nine0003

If you need to create items that require a lot of wear, use TPE or TPU because these filaments use 3D printed filaments that are vulnerable to deformation. Products such as toys, mobile phone cases, or wearable items such as wristbands can be some examples of its application. On the other hand, TPC performs well for comparable applications, but outperforms it in harsher environments, including outdoors. nine0003

Wood filament

Technically not wood because it contains wood fiber in enhanced PLA. Generally speaking, wood products are valued for their natural beauty rather than their practical utility. When printing items for tables, tables or shelves, it is recommended to use wood 3D printing media. Any of the application examples include chalices, figurines, and trophies. What's more, it's a truly innovative application for 3D printers, which are often used to model real buildings, structures, or trees. nine0003

Metal thread

Like wood thread, it is not 100% metal. Specifically, it is composed of metal powder, and one of the following materials is PLA or ABS. However, the effects also have a metal-like aesthetic appeal. Metal Infused can be printed for both decorative and practical purposes. Figures, prototypes, toys, including tokens, can be 3D printed from metal and give them a great look. You can also use metallic 3D printer filament to make parts such as tools or finishing components in light applications. nine0003

Biodegradable (biophila) filament

This biodegradable 3D printer filament aims to reduce the impact of all plastic waste into the atmosphere. Although biodegradable 3D filament was originally environmentally friendly, it can still produce quality printed products. Choose this biophile if you don't have special requirements for strength, versatility or endurance. For projects that require prototyping, you can also benefit from these flawless fiber prints that can be biodegraded responsibly. nine0003

Conductive thread

This is a kind of three-dimensional material with conductive carbon particles in it. It is ideal for Arduino-based open source businesses. You'll want to look into this filament if you want to make circuits, LEDs, sensors, and other low voltage projects.

Magnetic filament

PLA magnetic iron filament is as magnetic as the name suggests. This one-of-a-kind filament is made from PLA material impregnated with powdered iron. It is ideal for making fridge magnets and other custom-made decorative items. Also, it can be used to create multiple DIY structures, sensors, educational resources, etc.0003

Top Five 3D Printer Filaments

Access to a 3D printer creates a whole new world of creative printing. There are several purposes and hobbies that 3D printing serves, but they all rely on the same raw material - 3D printer filament.

While unique materials are recommended for durable and impressive models, you need to select the right material for your 3D image. need printer. You also need to consider the quality and attributes of the thread. That being said, finding the right 3D filament is no picnic. nine0003

As such, we sought the advice of tech experts and 3D printer enthusiasts to find the most popular 3D printing filaments on the market. And to give you a clearer idea of ​​their main features and specifications, we have done a detailed analysis to better understand which filament you should pair with your 3D printer. Also, don't forget to click on the buttons below to get the best deals on Amazon!

Best 3D Printing Filaments (Professional)

3D printing is increasingly being used in commerce and manufacturing. Industrial printing requires special filaments. They are characterized by increased structural support. We offer a list of the 9 most popular professional consumables:

#1. Professional 3D Printing Filament: Carbon Fiber

Carbon fiber is often added to PLA, ABS, PETG to improve stiffness. Such connections are excellent for use in aggressive environments. The only negative is that the use of these consumables contributes to the rapid wear of the extruder (especially if it is made of soft metal). nine0003

#2. Professional 3D Printing Filament: PC-ABS

ABS Polycarbonate Alloy is a rigid thermoplastic that combines the strength and heat resistance of polycarbonate with the flexibility of ABS. The material is characterized by hygroscopicity, therefore it causes certain difficulties when working with it. Another disadvantage is that the thread must be printed at a high temperature (at least 260°C). Since PC-ABS tends to warp, a high temperature of the printed layer (at least 100°C) is needed. nine0003

#3. Professional 3D Printing Filament: HIPS

High performance polystyrene is a copolymer that combines the hardness of polystyrene with the elasticity of rubber. Combined with ABS in a dual extrusion printer, HIPS is an excellent support material. Easy to sand, glue or paint. Doesn't mix well with other threads (except ABS) as they can be damaged by limonene.

#4. Professional 3D printing filaments: PVA

Polyvinyl alcohol is water soluble, so it does an excellent job as a support material. Unlike the previous consumable, it is compatible not only with ABS, but also with PLA and nylon.

#5. Professional 3D Printing Filament: ASA

An alternative to ABS designed for greater weather resistance. Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate is not affected by chemicals, high temperatures.

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