Choose a material by the property your part needs most. For an easy first print, start with PLA. For an everyday part that must withstand moisture or a larger load, consider PETG. Then check the requirements of the specific product.
If several properties matter equally, choose the materials that cover them together, then compare the product-page requirements.
Quick prototypes, decorative objects and ordinary indoor use.
PLAHolders, brackets and practical everyday parts.
PETG, ABS+, ASASeals, protectors, feet and impact-absorbing parts.
TPUParts that work at higher temperatures or under larger loads.
ABS+, PC, PAParts exposed to the outdoors, sunlight and moisture.
ASA or PETGColour, gloss, a matte finish or texture matters more than technical strength.
Special-finish PLAThese are general directions. Additives and manufacturer settings can differ between products in the same material family.
Good for: prototypes, decorations and ordinary indoor use.
Limitation: does not tolerate heat or long-term sunlight well.
Good for: practical parts, moisture and moderate loads.
Limitation: can string and may stick too firmly to the bed.
Good for: flexible, soft and impact-absorbing parts.
Limitation: needs slow printing and dry material.
Good for: stiffer technical parts and a matte finish.
Limitation: fibres quickly wear a standard nozzle.
Good for: strong, heat-resistant technical parts.
Limitation: warps in draughts and needs an enclosed printer.
Good for: UV- and weather-resistant outdoor parts.
Limitation: has requirements similar to ABS and may need a heated chamber.
Good for: very strong, heat-resistant technical parts.
Limitation: needs high temperatures, a stable chamber and dry filament.
Good for: wear-resistant mechanical parts that carry loads.
Limitation: absorbs moisture quickly; the CF version needs a hardened nozzle.
Good for: design objects with a silk, matte or other special finish.
Limitation: strength and layer adhesion can differ from standard PLA.
| Material | Hardened nozzle | Enclosed printer | Heated chamber | Drying | Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | Not needed | Not needed | Not needed | Not needed* | Beginner |
| PETG | Not needed | Not needed | Not needed | Recommended | Beginner |
| TPU | Not needed | Not needed | Not needed | Required | Intermediate |
| PLA-CF / PETG-CF | Required | Not needed | Not needed | Recommended | Intermediate |
| ABS+ | Not needed | Required | Recommended | Recommended | Advanced |
| ASA | Not needed | Required | Required* | Recommended | Advanced |
| PC | Not needed | Required | Required | Required | Advanced |
| PA / PA-CF | Depends on fill | Required | Required | Required | Advanced |
* This table is a general starting point. The requirements on the specific product page are always more precise and take priority over this table.
The next step explains how to identify a hardened nozzle, an enclosed printer and an actively heated chamber.
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