Materials
Materials
The right material matters more than most people expect. Not sure which to pick? Choose "Not sure" on the quote form and we'll recommend one.
PLA
Easy to print, stiff and detailed. Great for prototypes, display pieces and indoor parts.
- Low heat resistance (softens around 55-60 °C)
- Can be brittle
- Lowest cost
PETG
Tougher than PLA with better heat and chemical resistance. A strong all-rounder for functional and outdoor parts.
- Moderate heat resistance
- Good impact strength
- Resists water and many chemicals
TPU
Flexible, rubber-like and durable. Used for gaskets, grips, bumpers, seals and vibration-damping parts.
- Stretches and rebounds
- Abrasion resistant
- Not for rigid parts
Nylon
Strong, tough and wear resistant. A good fit for gears, bushings, hinges and parts under repeated stress.
- High strength and fatigue resistance
- Better heat resistance
- Absorbs moisture over time
Side by side
| PLA | PETG | TPU | Nylon | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stiffness | High | Medium | Flexible | Medium |
| Impact toughness | Low | Good | Excellent | Very good |
| Wear resistance | Fair | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Outdoor and moisture | Poor | Good | Good | Fair (absorbs moisture) |
| Relative cost | $ | $ | $$ | $$$ |
| Best for | Prototypes, indoor parts | Functional and outdoor parts | Seals, grips, bumpers | Gears, hinges, wear parts |
| Max part size | About 250 mm (10 in) per side. Larger parts can be split into pieces. | |||
| Typical tolerance | ±0.2 mm on well-designed parts. Tell us if a fit is critical. | |||
Ratings are general guidance and vary by brand and by how a part is designed and printed, so we'll confirm the best option for your use when we quote.
Next step
Not sure? Send the part or a photo and we'll recommend one.