Whether you’re just starting out or have been tinkering with your printer for years, choosing the right 3D printing materials can make or break your project. With so many plastics out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve put together this guide—to simplify your decision-making and help you get the best results from your prints.
In this article, we’re focusing on the most common thermoplastics used in consumer-grade 3D printing: PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU, and Nylon-CF (PA6-CF). These are materials you can realistically buy and use at home or in a small business setting. We’ll explore their strengths, limitations, and best use cases, with practical examples and easy tips along the way.
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PLA – Easy Does It
Let’s start with PLA (Polylactic Acid)—often recommended as the best filament for beginners. PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane.
Why use PLA?
- It’s super easy to print with thanks to excellent printability, low nozzle temperature (~190–210°C), and minimal warping or shrinkage.
- It doesn’t require a heated bed (although 50–60°C helps).
- It delivers smooth, detailed prints with good dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
When to use it:
PLA is ideal for prototyping materials, decorative items, cosplay props, toys, and models. Just don’t expect it to handle high heat or outdoor exposure well—it softens around 60°C.
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PETG – Tougher Than PLA
If you’re ready for something stronger, PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a great next step. It combines the ease of PLA with better mechanical performance.
Why use PETG?
- Good strength and flexibility
- Resistant to moisture and chemicals
- Minimal warping, especially with proper bed temperature (around 70–80°C)
- Prints at 220–250°C
When to use it:
PETG is great for functional parts like brackets, containers, or mechanical assemblies that require moderate durability. It’s also a good option for end-use applications that may experience light wear and tear.
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ABS – A Classic with a Temper
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) has long been a go-to for industrial 3D printing materials, but it’s a bit trickier to work with at home.
Why use ABS?
- Excellent heat resistance and durability
- Can be post-processed with acetone for a smooth, glossy finish
- Stronger than PLA or PETG
But beware:
- ABS warps easily without a heated bed (90–110°C) and enclosed build chamber
- Emits strong fumes—use in a well-ventilated area
- Prints at high nozzle temperatures (230–250°C)
When to use it:
Use ABS for high-performance materials that need to withstand heat or stress—think automotive parts, tool handles, or rugged prototypes.
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ASA – ABS’s Weatherproof Cousin
ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) is quite similar to ABS in terms of strength, but with added UV resistance—making it perfect for outdoor use.
Why use ASA?
- Similar to ABS in strength and material compatibility
- Improved weather resistance and colour stability
- Slightly less prone to warping
When to use it:
Use ASA for parts that need to survive the South African sun—outdoor brackets, signage, enclosures, or functional parts exposed to the elements.
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TPU – The Flexible Favourite
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is part of the flexible filament family, and it brings some exciting properties to the table.
Why use TPU?
- Extremely flexible yet durable
- Shock and impact resistant
- Prints at 220–240°C, with minimal bed temperature needed (40–60°C)
- No enclosure needed
What’s the catch?
- Slower print speeds required
- Retraction settings can be tricky
- Needs a direct drive extruder for best results
When to use it:
TPU is perfect for phone cases, seals, gaskets, RC car tyres, and wearable parts. If flexibility is key, this is your go-to material.
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Nylon-CF (PA6-CF) – Reinforced for Performance
Nylon with carbon fibre (PA6-CF) belongs to the composite filament category and is considered one of the strongest 3D printing filament options available for consumer-grade printers.
Why use Nylon-CF?
- Exceptional mechanical performance
- High dimensional accuracy and heat resistance
- Carbon fibres reduce shrinkage and warping
- Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
Requirements:
- High nozzle temperature (250–280°C)
- Heated bed (90–110°C)
- Hardened steel nozzle (carbon fibre is abrasive)
- Dry storage is essential—Nylon is highly hygroscopic
When to use it:
Use PA6-CF for industrial-grade parts, structural components, drones, RC vehicles, and tools. It’s for users who are comfortable tuning their settings and have the right hardware.
Tips for Choosing the Right Filament
When browsing your next roll of filament, keep these filament selection tips in mind:
- Printability: New to 3D printing? Start with PLA or PETG.
- Functionality: Need moving or stress-bearing parts? Try PETG, ASA, or Nylon-CF.
- Flexibility: Need something bendy? TPU’s your best bet.
- Environmental resistance: ASA and PETG can handle moisture and sun better than PLA or ABS.
- Hardware requirements: Not all printers handle all materials—check for nozzle temperature, bed temperature, and filament compatibility.
Understanding the pros and cons of 3D printing materials will help you avoid failed prints, wasted time, and frustration.
FAQs: Quick Answers About 3D Printing Materials
Q: What is the best filament for beginners?
A: PLA is the easiest to work with—low heat, minimal warping, and great results.
Q: Can I print ABS without an enclosure?
A: It’s not ideal. ABS warps easily, so an enclosure and heated bed are highly recommended.
Q: How should I store filament?
A: Keep it dry! Use sealed containers or dry boxes, especially for PETG, Nylon, and TPU.
Q: What’s the difference between FDM and SLA?
A: FDM uses thermoplastic filaments like the ones listed above. SLA resins and DLP resins are liquid photopolymers used in high-detail resin printing—not covered here, but worth exploring if detail is a priority.
Conclusion: Know Your Plastics, Print Like a Pro
Understanding common 3D printing materials gives you the confidence to create better prints, avoid costly mistakes, and match the right plastic to the right project. Whether you’re prototyping a new gadget, building parts for your bakkie, or making something fun for the kids—choosing the right filament matters.
Looking to dive deeper into specific materials or try something new? Check out our 3D printing materials guide, or browse our store for consumer-friendly composite filaments, beginner bundles, and filament storage solutions.
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