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Best filament for 3d printer


Best 3D Printing Filament in 2022

You've got the best 3D printer you can buy, so it's time to start printing! If you chose a fused deposition modeling, or FDM printer -- the most common type of 3D printer for hobbyists -- you'll need some material to print with. 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.

James Bricknell/CNET

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

Cookiecad

CookieCad Mint chip

My new favorite color

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.

$20 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

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. 

$32 at Amazon

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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

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.

$33 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. 

$37 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 2022 (Including PETG and PLA 3D Printer Filament)

Welcome to the Thomas guide to the best 3D printer filament in 2022. Thomas has been connecting North American industrial buyers and suppliers for more than 120 years. When you purchase products through our independent recommendations, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Thankfully for DIY additive manufacturing enthusiasts, there are many different types of 3D filament available, but this may get beginners in a bit of a pickle; how do you know which 3D filament is the best for your needs? We outline below the different 3D filaments and their uses, as well as a selection of the top products available to buy now to help you find the right one for you.

The best 3D filament for a project is highly dependent on what is to be printed

Image credit: Shutterstock/luchschenF

3D Printer Filament—Buying Guide

In order to find the best 3D printer filament for your needs, it's good to know about the different types and what they're good for. Below are a few of the most common 3D filaments available on the market, as well as a brief overview of their properties and applications. 

3D Filament Types and Uses

PLA is by far the best 3D printer filament for beginners as it is easy to use, as is the up-and-coming PETG filament. Still, with a little bit of time, patience, and practice, most of the other 3D filaments can be mastered to make impressive and useful products too.

  • PLA (polylactic acid) is easy to use, beginner-friendly, doesn't need a heating bed, emits little to no odor, has minimal warping and shrinkage, is biodegradable and eco-friendly, and is available in a variety of colors and styles.
  • ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is the top rigid filament available that is high-temperature resistant, highly durable, and hard, but it's not particularly user-, or beginner-friendly as it tends to warp and shrink.
  • ASA (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate) is a weather-resistant alternative to ABS and slightly easier to print with. It's a little brittle, though, and has a tendency to crack while printing if the settings aren't perfect.
  • PETG (polyethylene terephthalate with glycol) is user-friendly, clear, non-brittle, durable yet flexible, and resistant to high temperatures. Ideal for beginners. PETG resin has been FDA approved for food contact; however, you should always check the Safety Data Sheet on each product as compositions may vary from product to product.
  • PP (polypropylene) is durable and tough, flexible and light, is resistant to chemicals, and is food-safe. The trade-off is that it's difficult to print with, as it tends to warp, and it isn't the best at layer adhesion.
  • POM (polyoxymethylene) is often used in engineering as it's perfect for high-precision parts like gears and bearings. The first layer needs a lot of care and attention, and the print bed temperature needs to be high for a desirable result.
  • TPE (thermoplastic elastomers), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), and TPC (thermoplastic copolyester) are flexible yet durable plastics similar to rubber that are used a lot in medical industries. They're not the easiest to print.
  • PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), commonly known as acrylic or Plexiglass, is a clear glass-like material that is lightweight and shatter-proof. It may warp during printing and is not very flexible.  
  • FPE (flexible polyester) is a combination of hard and soft polymers, is durable, and is quite user-friendly.
  • Nylon is an expensive material that requires a high bed temperature to print with. It is strong, flexible, and durable, and you can even dye it before or after use.
  • Carbon fiber reinforced filaments, whether PLA, PETG, or ABS, are strong, lightweight, but extremely rigid, and have a high heat tolerance.
  • PC (polycarbonate) is one of the strongest filaments. It's both heat and impact-resistant and needs to be stored in a cool, dry place to stay in optimal condition. There is also a PC/ABS filament that provides the best of both plastics.
  • PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) is a water-soluble plastic (think the plastic covering dishwasher tablets) that is useful for very particular products but not really easy to handle.
  • Wood, metal, and ceramic effect filaments are PLA or ABS based with wood fiber, metal powder, or clay properties added to give the desired effect.
  • Other effects, i.e. glow-in-the-dark, rainbow, or color-changing filaments, are also available for more creative and original designs.

Get started on your project now with a variety of the above 3D printer filaments available through Xometry, the industry's leading on-demand manufacturing platform.

Thomas’ Top Picks for the Best 3D Printer Filament in 2022

We've picked out the top-rated 3D filaments available so you can get printing with a simple "add to cart".

Best-Rated 3D Printer Filament: SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament | Buy Now

Best Cheap 3D Printer Filament (PETG): TECBEARS PETG 3D Filament | Buy Now

Best PLA 3D Printer Filament: OVERTURE PLA Filament | Buy Now

Best Carbon Fiber 3D Printer Filament: PRILINE Carbon Fiber PETG Filament | Buy Now

Best Food Safe 3D Printer Filament: OVERTURE PETG 3D Printer Filament | Buy Now

Best Wood 3D Printer Filament: iSANMATE Wood Filament | Buy Now

Best Metallic 3D Printer Filament: CC3D 3D Printer Silk PLA Rainbow Multicolor Metallic Filament | Buy Now

Best Multicolor 3D Printer Filament: TTYT3D Color Gradient Rainbow Multicolor 3D Printer Filament | Buy Now

Best Glow-in-the-Dark 3D Printer Filament: Amolen PLA 3D Glow-in-the-Dark PLA Filament | Buy Now

Best 3D Printer Filament Set: Mika3D Shiny Silk PLA Filament Bundle | Buy Now

Best 3D Pen Filament: Mika3D 3D Pen PLA Filament | Buy Now

Scroll down to read more about our top picks for the best 3D printer filament on the market, according to thousands of happy buyers.

*Prices listed in this article were as shown in US$ on Amazon.com (USA) as of April 2022

1. Best-Rated 3D Printer Filament—SUNLU 3D Printer Filament

Made from premium PLA, this SUNLU 3D printer filament offers high-performance, great strength, is environmentally friendly, and has no odor during printing.

It will fit in most printers that take 1.75mm filament, and one of the many happy customers wrote, "I purchased this PLA+ in black because I was looking for a stronger PLA filament than your usual brand... It looks like silk on the vertical sides of a print. It is very shiny, and I like it."

BUY NOW: US$20.99 (Was US$27.99), Amazon

2. Best Cheap 3D Printer Filament (PETG)—TECBEARS 3D Printer Filament

Providing ease of printing, reliability, and high detail, the TECBEARS PETG 3D printer filament shares similar specifications to other competitors but at a highly competitive price point.

Many satisfied customers have noted that this product is of great value, and one wrote, "This 3D Printer filament works wonderfully! It is really good quality at a fraction of the price."

BUY NOW: US$19.99, Amazon

3. Best PLA 3D Printer Filament—OVERTURE 3D Printer Filament

A lot of avid 3D printing fans love OVERTURE filaments as the company has a stringent manufacturing system of examination that ensures their filament is clog-, and bubble-free and provides a smooth and stable printing experience every time.

Each PLA filament also comes with a free bed surface mat and a helpful small plastic ruler. With thousands of positive ratings, this product is one of the best PLA filaments you can buy, and one enthusiastic purchaser confirmed, "All my prints came out flawless for the desired settings… It's the best PLA you can get for your money. Period!"

BUY NOW: US$19. 20 (Was US$26.99), Amazon

4. Best Carbon Fiber 3D Printer Filament—PRILINE 3D Printer Filament

For a strong and rigid 3D filament, this PRILINE carbon fiber polycarbonate version is the way to go. With excellent layer adhesion and dimensional stability, as well as a high strength-to-weight ratio, and high heat tolerance (as is expected of carbon fiber), this product provides superior layer adhesion for prints that won’t warp.

It’s Amazon’s choice for the best carbon fiber PETG filament, and one of the many happy customers commented, “These carbon fiber filaments make parts that appear much more professional,” adding that another benefit “is that there is little or no stringing.”

BUY NOW: US$49.06 (Was US$79), Amazon

5. Best Food Safe 3D Printer Filament—OVERTURE Printer Filament

Clog-free, bubble-free, tangle-free, and at a competitive price, this OVERTURE PETG filament has everything you need in a good 3D printing filament, and it’s food-safe, too, for printing food and drink containers, like dinnerware and cups.

It comes in the standard 1.75mm diameter and is competitively priced. One very pleased customer wrote, "I wanted a good PETG filament since I heard it's a good food-safe plastic that can be 3D printed... Love the finish on the kombucha fruit cold presser I designed."

BUY NOW: US$23.99, Amazon

6. Best Wood 3D Printer Filament—iSANMATE 3D Printer Filament

Made from 20% wood flour and 80% PLA, the iSANMATE wood filament can make impressive products with a real wooden feel. It can be used for models of many sizes with flat or smooth surfaces and boasts superb layer bonding and a low shrinkage rate.

One very satisfied buyer wrote, "The adhesion was very good, and I had no issues with overhangs. The finished product looks and feels like real wood (one friend thought it was carved at first)."

BUY NOW: US$28.99, Amazon

7. Best Metallic 3D Printer Filament—CC3D 3D Printer Filament

No polishing is needed when using the CC3D printer silk rainbow multicolor PLA filament, as the end result is always highly detailed and sleek. The color change is random, so you can’t arrange the color scheme, but it provides a beautiful and unique finish nonetheless.

One of the many happy customers described, "It flows great with no clogs or jams, has great moisture resistance, and the end results of these filaments are stunning. The filament has great strength, and layers are solid with a smooth, extremely shiny surface."

BUY NOW: US$25.99 (Was US$29.99), Amazon

8. Best Multicolor 3D Printer Filament—TTYT3D 3D Printer Filament

The TTYT3D rainbow multi-colored 3D printer PLA filament prides itself on the speed of color change, its smooth, glossy appearance, and its versatility for making anything from figurines to arts and crafts. It is easily compatible at the standard 1.75mm diameter and boasts no edge warping and no clogging.

It has a consistent feed which keeps it stable and reliable, and is also eco-friendly. One very pleased consumer wrote, "Prints came out absolutely gorgeous… I had zero issues with layer adhesion, and it’s a pretty strong filament. Was worried about brittleness, but nope. Good and strong."

BUY NOW: US$29.99 (Was US$39.99), Amazon

9. Best Glow-in-the-Dark 3D Printer Filament—Amolen 3D Printer Filament

As a contender for the most fun filament you can buy, colors in the AMOLEN PLA 3D glow-in-the-dark version change from green to blue, and purple and pink every ten meters, making unique and attractive products each time.

Exposing it for a short time to a strong UV light or sunlight will give the desired glow effect, enjoyed by adults and children alike. "Some of the best glow-in-the-dark PLA I’ve used,” wrote one buyer. “It prints nicely for me and is actually fairly strong compared to some cheaper PLA... Would recommend this product 100%."

BUY NOW: US$36. 99, Amazon

10. Best 3D Printer Filament Set—Mika3D Printer Filament

The Amazon's choice eco-friendly MIKA3D PLA filament bundle consists of high-quality, silky, and shiny metallic effect filaments for making stunning prints. These 500g spools are universally compatible, so should be able to fit the majority of 3D FDM printers on the market.

Many buyers are thrilled with the printing outcomes of these filaments, as well as their reasonable price tag (this bundle works out to under $14 for each spool). In addition, there are over 15 different bundle options available. One customer wrote, "It is the best PLA that I have used on my printer; its quality is amazing… and the color is just wow."

BUY NOW: US$40.99 (Was US$59.99), Amazon

11. Best 3D Pen Filament—Mika3D Filament

For anyone who owns a 3D pen, this pack of Mika3D PLA filament refills consists of an impressive 32 assorted colors; 10 transparent, four metallic, and 18 other popular colors. They are eco-friendly and safe for kids and will fit most popular 3D pens and printers that take the standard 1.75mm diameter filaments.

A very pleased consumer wrote, "Awesome deal for the filament for our 3D pen! My daughter loves the colors and they heat up and build great."

BUY NOW: US$19.99 (Was US$29.99), Amazon

The Best 3D Printer Filament in 2022—Summary

You can't really go wrong with any of our options above, but for a great all-rounder, the premium PLA SUNLU 3D printer filament (US$20.99, Amazon) is a top choice, and for more variety and options, we recommend the eco-friendly MIKA3D PLA filament bundle (US$40.99, Amazon).

We hope our review of the best 3D printer filament has been helpful. For more 3D printers and other 3D printing suppliers, including 3D printer filaments suppliers, additive manufacturing suppliers, 3D photographic printing services, and 3D sand printing additive manufacturing, consult our additional guides, or visit the Thomas Supplier Discovery Platform.

Sources

  • https://all3dp.com/1/3d-printer-filament-types-3d-printing-3d-filament/

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90,000 types of plastic for 3D printer

Content

    • Pla
    • ABS
    • HIPS
    • PVA
    • Petg
    • SBS
      • 9000

    Every year 3D printing becomes more popular and accessible. Previously, a 3D printer was more like a complex CNC machine, but now manufacturers are meeting users. Simplified and automated settings that many beginners drove into a stupor. Despite this, it can be difficult for a novice user to understand the variety of constantly appearing plastics for a 3D printer.

    The choice of plastic for a 3D printer is very important, especially when the goal is to print a functional model with certain properties. It will be a shame if the printed gear breaks almost immediately, or the decorative model quickly loses its beauty.

    It is important to understand whether the printer will be able to work with the selected plastic. Some materials (most often engineering) require certain conditions for successful printing.

    First, decide which model you want to print. What properties should it have? Does the model need to be durable? Or is it a master model for further replication, in which the quality of the surface is important?

    90% of 3D printers use 1. 75 diameter filament. 3mm diameter is rare, but it is better to check in advance which size is used in your printer.

    PLA

    PLA (Polylactide) is the most popular and affordable 3D printer plastic. PLA is made from sugar cane, corn, or other natural raw materials. Therefore, it is considered a non-toxic, biodegradable material.

    Extruder temperature - 190-220 degrees. Table heating is not needed, but if the printer's table has a "heater" for better adhesion, you can heat it up to 50-60 degrees. PLA is very easy to work with. The only requirement is to blow the model. There is practically no shrinkage in this material. When printed, it is practically odorless, and if it smells, it smells like burnt caramel.

    Pros:

    • Does not shrink. This makes it easy to build prefabricated or huge models without changing dimensions.

    • There are no specific requirements for a 3D printer. Any working 3D printer will do. PLA doesn't need a heated table or a closed case.

    • Non-toxic. Due to this, during printing it does not smell or has a barely perceptible aroma of burnt caramel.

    • Diverse color palette.

    Cons:

    • PLA is poorly sanded and machined.

    • It begins to deform already with a slight heating (about 50 degrees).

    • Fragility. Compared to other materials, PLA is very brittle and breaks easily.

    • Decomposes under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Of course, it will not fall apart into dust, but it can become more brittle and fade.

    PLA is perfect for making dimensional or composite models. For example, decorative interior items, prototyping, electronics cases, etc.

    Recently, PLA+ has appeared on the market. It may differ from conventional PLA in improved performance. For example, more durable, with improved layer adhesion.

      Dummy turbine

      Decorative coasters

      ABS

      ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is the second most popular plastic for 3D printing due to its properties, availability and low price.

      Extruder temperature - 220-240 degrees. The temperature of the table is 80-100 degrees. For printing, a heated table is required at the printer. It is desirable to have a closed chamber, because ABS "does not like" drafts. Due to a sharp temperature drop, it can “unstick” from the table or crack in layers. ABS can smell bad when printing, so it is recommended to use the printer with a closed chamber and filters, or print in a well-ventilated area.

      Pros:

      • Good strength characteristics allow the production of functional prototypes from ABS.

      • Simple mechanical and chemical processing. ABS is easy to sand and drill, and with an acetone bath you can achieve a perfectly smooth surface.

      • It is currently the most inexpensive type of plastic for 3D printing.

      • Large selection of colors and shades.

      Cons:

      • High shrinkage. Because of this, it can be problematic to manufacture overall products.

      • Printing requires a heated bed and a closed chamber. Without this, the ABS may peel off the table or crack in layers.

      • During the printing process, ABS can smell bad. Therefore, it is recommended that you print in a ventilated area or use the printer with a sealed chamber and filter.

      ABS is an engineering plastic. It is suitable for the manufacture of simple functional products.

      ABS after chemical treatment in an acetone bath

      RU model made of ABS

      ABS+ differs from conventional ABS in improved strength characteristics (elasticity, rigidity, hardness), less shrinkage and sometimes resistance to certain oils and solvents (eg gasoline).


      HIPS

      HIPS (high impact polystyrene) - originally conceived as a soluble support plastic for materials with high printing temperatures. For example for ABS or Nylon.

      The extruder temperature is 230-260 degrees. The temperature of the table is 80-100 degrees. It is desirable to have a closed camera for a 3D printer.

      Pros:

      • Less shrinkage than ABS.

      • Ease of machining.

      • The matte surface looks very advantageous on decorative products.

      • Food contact allowed (but be sure to check with a specific manufacturer for certificates)

      Cons:

      • For printing, you need a printer with a heated table and a closed chamber.

      • More flexible and less durable than ABS. Because of this, it will not be possible to produce functional products.

      • Small palette of colors.

      Most often, HIPS is used for its intended purpose for printing on 2x extruder printers as a support for ABS. It dissolves perfectly (though not very quickly) in limonel.

      Sometimes HIPS is used as an independent material. Products from it are not very durable, but this plastic is loved for easy post-processing. HIPS can be used for models that will subsequently come into contact with food (not hot).

      Using HIPS as a Soluble Support

      Decorative vase made of HIPS


      PVA

      PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) is a material that was developed as a water-soluble support for PLA.

      Extruder temperature - 190-210. Table heating is not required. PVA is a slightly "capricious" material, it is not recommended to overheat it and print at high speeds.

      PVA is very hygroscopic and dissolves in plain water. Therefore, it is only used as a support for PLA or other plastics with print temperatures close to PVA.

      Soluble PVA Support


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      PETG

      PETG (polyethylene terephthalate) combines the best properties of PLA and ABS. It is easy to work with, it has a low percentage of shrinkage and excellent sintering of the layers.

      Extruder temperature - 220-240 degrees. Table temperature - 80-100 degrees. During the printing process, the model must be well blown.

      Pros:

      • Excellent sinterability of layers.

      • PETG is very strong and wear resistant. Good impact resistance.

      • Virtually no smell when printing.

      • Non-toxic.

      • Little shrinkage.

      Cons:

      PETG is perfect for printing functional models. Due to its low shrinkage, it is often used to make large or composite models. Due to its low toxicity, PETG is often used for products that will come into contact with food.

      Cookie cutters and patterned rolling pin

      SBS

      It is a highly transparent material. At the same time, it is durable and resilient. SBS is a low toxicity plastic. It can be used to print food contact models.

      Extruder temperature - 230 -260 degrees. Table temperature - 60-100 degrees. You can print without the closed case on the printer.

      Pros:

      • slight shrinkage

      • Transparency. After treatment with solvent, limonel or dichloromethane, beautiful transparent products with an almost smooth surface can be obtained.

      • Easily processed mechanically or chemically.

      • Allowed contact with food.

      Cons:

      SBS is excellent for translucent vases, children's toys and food containers. Or functional things that require transparency, such as custom turn signals for a motorcycle or car, lamps or bottle prototypes.

      Vases are perfectly printed with a thick nozzle (0.7-0.8) in one pass (printing in 1 wall or spiral printing in a slicer).

      Models of bottles after chemical treatment


      Nylon

      Nylon (polyamide) is considered the most durable material available for home 3D printing. In addition to good abrasion resistance and strength, it has a high slip coefficient.

      Extruder temperature - 240-260 degrees. The temperature of the table is 80-100 degrees. Nylon is a very capricious and hygroscopic material - it is recommended to dry the coil with plastic before use. For printing, you need a printer with a heated table and a closed chamber, without this it will be difficult to print something larger than a small gear.

      Pros:

      • High strength and wear resistance.

      • High slip factor.

      • Heat resistance compared to other 3D printing plastics.

      • High resistance to many solvents.

      • Good for mechanical processing. Perfectly polished and drilled.

      Cons:

      Nylon is perfect for making wear-resistant parts - gears, functional models, etc. Sometimes nylon is used to print bushings.

      Nylon gear

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      Soft plastics

      FLEX (TPU, TPE, TPC) is a material similar to silicone or rubber. It is flexible and elastic, but at the same time tear-resistant. For example, TPE is a rubbery plastic, while TPU is more rigid.

      FLEX are printed at a temperature of 200-240 (depending on the material). A heated table is not required. On printers with direct material feed (feed mechanism on the print head), there are usually no problems with printing. On a bowden feeder (the feed mechanism is located on the body), printing with very soft plastics can be difficult. Usually it is necessary to additionally adjust the clamping of the bar. The main nuance is the very low print speeds - 20-40mm.

      Pros:

      Cons:

      Depending on the type of FLEXa, the models can be flexible or rubber-like. This material, depending on its softness, can be used to print gaskets, insoles, belts, tracks or other models that require flexibility or softness.

      FLEX belt

      Trainers with flexible soles

      Wheel for switchgear model

      Decorative plastics

      Decorative plastics are PLA plastics with various fillers (wood or metal shavings). Or with dyes selected to imitate different materials. Since the base of the plastic is PLA, it is very easy to print.

      Extruder temperature - 200-220 degrees (depending on the manufacturer). A heated table is not required.

      Pros:

      Cons:

      • Some fillers (eg clay) are abrasive. For such plastics, the standard brass nozzle cannot be used. Will have to buy a harder steel nozzle.

      • Some decorative plastics can clog the small nozzle (0.4 or less). For them, you need to use a “thicker” nozzle.

      Depending on the filler, different material properties are obtained. Plastics that use only dye do not require additional processing. Materials with "fillers" may sometimes require additional post-processing.

      Plastics with metal fillers after printing must be processed with a metal brush. Then the Metal content will show through and the model will resemble a metal casting.

        Plastics with metallic powder

        These plastics are often used for printing key chains, decorative models and interior details.

        If the plastic has a high content of wood dust, then it is recommended to use a larger nozzle diameter (0.5 or more), a smaller nozzle can quickly become clogged during printing.

        Wood-filled plastic ground

        Plastic key rings with copper dust

        Engineering plastics

        These are nylon-based plastics with fillers that improve strength, heat-resistant and other characteristics, help to achieve less shrinkage of the material. For example - carbon fiber, carbon fiber or fiberglass.

        Extruder temperature - 240-300 degrees (depending on the manufacturer). Table temperature - 90-110 degrees. Since plastics are based on nylon, the requirements for printing are similar. This is a heated table and a closed printer case.

        Pros:

        • Hardness and strength.

        • Low flammability or non-combustibility.

        • High precision due to low shrinkage.

        Cons:


        3D printers use brass nozzles, some plastics can quickly “waste” it during printing. For such materials it is recommended to use steel nozzles.

        These are highly specialized plastics used for a specific task, depending on the filler. For example, functional parts that do not lose their shape when heated, are resistant to many solvents, etc.

        Functional Carbon Fiber Composite Prototype

        Composite frame

        Polycarbonate ashtray

        Totals

        This is of course not the whole list of materials for 3D printing. There are many highly specialized engineering and decorative plastics for specific tasks.

        Manufacturers are constantly trying to replenish the range of materials for 3D printing. Already familiar materials are improved for more comfortable printing. There are many interesting decorative plastics imitating different materials - ceramics, clay, wood, metals.

        And of course, the assortment of engineering plastics is constantly updated. Now there are many interesting materials for highly specialized tasks - for example, burnable plastic with a low ash content for subsequent casting in metal.

        Burnout plastic

        Before buying a coil, read the information on the website of the manufacturer or seller. There you can find some nuances of printing for a particular plastic. The manufacturer indicates the recommended temperature range on the box. Sometimes, for quality printing, it is recommended to print several tests to adjust the temperature settings, retract, etc.

        Try to store the started coil in silica gel bags. It is recommended to additionally dry high-temperature plastics before printing to remove excess moisture.

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        What is the best plastic for 3D printing? Let's figure it out together!

        Plastic for 3D printing

        After purchasing your own FDM 3D printer, as well as in the course of choosing it, it becomes necessary to choose the right plastic for 3D printing. But how to do this if you are new to 3D printing and have little to no understanding of this issue? Plastic for printing on a 3D printer is in most cases the main component of successful product reproduction. Therefore, we will not save on knowledge, and will tell you how to choose the best plastic for 3D printing.

        Types of plastic for a 3D printer

        First of all, you need to consider the types of plastic for a 3D printer. Plastic for 3D printing, or filament, is produced in the form of a thin thread with a diameter of 1.75 mm and 3 mm. Most often, filaments with a thickness of 1.75 mm are used in the basic configuration, but some manufacturers of 3D printers provide the ability to install a 3 mm plastic feed system. Plastic for 3D printing has many varieties, among which the most common are ABS and PLA plastic.

        Plastic for 3D printing: varieties

        By popularity in the Ukrainian market, the following types of plastic for 3D printing can be distinguished:

        • PLA (PLA) or polylactide. Organic and short lived. Suitable for 3D printing of decorative products, but not able to withstand high mechanical loads;
        • ABS (ABS) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. It has a long life and excellent mechanical properties. Heat-resistant and used for industrial purposes. Shrinks on cooling. It is recommended to print in ventilated areas;
        • PVA (PVA) or polyvinyl alcohol. A water-soluble material that is used as a support;
        • Nylone (Nylon). An alternative to ABS plastic, suitable for many engineering structures. When printing with nylon, it is recommended to ventilate the room;
        • HIPS (High Impact Polystyrene). In terms of physical properties, it is a cross between PLA and ABS. May also emit toxic fumes when printed.

        Other questions and answers about 3D printers and 3D printing:

        What is the best plastic for a 3D printer?

        In fact, there are many more types of plastic for 3D printing. This can include flexible, fluorescent and luminescent filament, wood and metallized materials. But in practice, such consumables are rarely used and are needed for narrowly specific purposes. Metallized plastics are interesting in their own right, but they are at the initial stage of development and are inferior in performance to ordinary reinforced materials. “And what plastic is best for a 3D printer?” - you ask. You should choose based on specific goals. If you intend to print decorative elements that will not be subject to payload, you can look at PLA plastic. If your goal is to print gears, structural parts and other things, look at reinforced materials for 3D printing.

        What kind of plastic to print?

        Please note that not every printer supports the full range of 3D printing materials. Before buying a specific filament, check the specifications of your own device to avoid wasting money. The rest is up to you and your imagination. A huge range of colors and shades of plastic is available for sale, matte and glossy, semi- and fully transparent materials. Such a variety will allow you to make almost any product to your taste.

        Remember that if you need to buy plastic for 3D printing - 3DDevice store is at your service! We offer a wide range of different materials in all possible color options and are ready to provide advice when choosing a filament.

        Learn more