Materials
3D printing materials: PLA, PETG, ABS and ASA
The right material decides how strong, heat resistant and durable a part will be. Here is a short comparison of the materials we print and when to choose each.
At a glance
| Material | Strength | Heat | Outdoors | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | Stiff but brittle | Low | No | Prototypes, models, decor |
| PETG | Tough, slightly flexible | Medium | Partly | Functional parts, holders, spare parts |
| ABS | Impact resistant | High | Partly | Enclosures, parts near heat |
| ASA | Impact resistant | High | Yes (UV resistant) | Outdoor, car and garden parts |
PLA
The easiest material to print, with very fine detail and a clean surface. Ideal for prototypes, mock-ups, figures and decorative objects. It softens at around 55–60 °C, so it is not for a car in summer or parts near heat.
PETG
The all-round material for functional parts. Tougher and more flexible than PLA, it takes impacts and moderate heat and does not snap easily. If you are unsure what to pick for a part that will be used, PETG is usually the answer. The online calculator currently prices PETG.
ABS
The material of many mass-produced plastic products. It handles higher temperatures and impacts, so it suits enclosures, car interior parts and parts near motors or appliances.
ASA
Similar to ABS in strength and heat resistance, but made for the outdoors: it does not yellow or crack from UV light, rain and cold. The choice for car, garden, roof and bike parts and anything that lives outside.
Not sure which material?
Tell us what the part does — load, temperature, indoors or out — and we will recommend a material. For PLA, ABS and ASA, write to us for a price.
Frequently asked questions
What is the strongest 3D printing material?
Of the materials we print, PETG, ABS and ASA are the most impact resistant. PETG is the best general choice; ABS and ASA when heat or sun is involved too.
Which material is right for outdoor parts?
ASA. It is made not to yellow or turn brittle under UV light and weather.
Which material is cheapest?
PLA and PETG are the most affordable. The price of a part depends more on the amount of material and print time than on the material type.
Are the materials food safe?
Printed parts are not recommended for direct, prolonged contact with food, because the layers trap residue. If you need such a part, write to us before ordering.
Which colours do you print?
Available colours are shown when you pick a material in the calculator. For a specific colour, write to us.
See also
Upload your model and see the price right away
STL or 3MF file, up to 90 MB. Priced by a real slicer in seconds — no emails, no waiting.