PLA, PETG, ABS/ASA, TPU and nylon: the differences
Every filament is a trade-off between ease of printing, heat resistance, flexibility and durability. This table helps you choose a starting point.
Comparison table
| Material | Nozzle (°C) | Bed (°C) | Enclosure (Prusa) | Suited to | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 185–235 | 50–60 | Not indicated | Prototypes, decoration, first experiments | Softens with heat; poor outdoors |
| PETG | 215–270 | 70–90 | Not indicated | Parts resistant to water and impact | Stringing; can stick too hard to smooth PEI: use glue stick |
| ASA | 220–275 | 90–110 | Recommended | Outdoors, sun | Warping; emits styrene |
| ABS | 230–255 | 95–110 | Recommended | Heat-resistant parts | Warping; higher emissions |
| TPU (flexible) | 220–260 | 40–85 | Not indicated | Elastic parts, gaskets | Slower; better with direct drive |
| Nylon (PA) | 240–285 | 70–115 | Recommended | Tough, low-wear parts | Very sensitive to moisture |
Ranges from the Prusa material guide [1]: they depend on the spool manufacturer and the printer, so always check the label.
One material at a time
- PLA: the easiest; great to start with. Dislikes heat and sun.
- PETG: tougher and more water-resistant than PLA; needs more tuning against strings. See stringing.
- ASA and ABS: better heat resistance; need an enclosure and ventilation. ASA is better outdoors (see outdoor filament).
- TPU: elastic; prints slowly and is sensitive to moisture.
- Nylon: tough, but very sensitive to moisture: see why dry.
- Carbon or glass fibre (CF/GF): stiffer, but abrasive: you need a hardened nozzle.
How to choose
- Beginner or prototype: PLA.
- Part resistant to water and impact: PETG.
- Part in the sun or near heat: ASA.
- Elastic part: TPU.
- Part subject to wear: nylon.
Health and ventilation
All filaments emit particles while printing. PLA and PETG show lower emissions in tests, ABS and ASA higher: read Filaments and health and filter the filament table for your needs.
Sources last checked: November 2026. Values are indicative: always check your spool manufacturer’s data sheet.