The right plastic depends on what the part will do, not just how it looks.
PLA
The easiest and most popular. It prints with good detail and a clean finish, comes in many colours, and suits display items, gifts, keychains and models. It softens in high heat, so do not leave it in a hot car or in strong sun.
PETG
Tougher and a little flexible, and handles moisture better than PLA. A good choice for functional parts, holders and containers that need durability.
ABS and ASA
Stronger under heat. ASA is also more weather and UV resistant, so it suits outdoor parts. These are harder to print, so they are used when heat or sun exposure requires them.
TPU
A flexible, rubber-like material for gaskets, grips, phone cases and anything that must bend.
Quick guide
- Gifts and display: PLA
- Everyday useful parts: PETG
- Heat or outdoor: ABS or ASA
- Flexible parts: TPU
Tell us what it will face
Heat, weight, water, sunlight and whether it must bend are the key questions. With those answers we can recommend a material and warn you if 3D printing is not the right choice.
See our materials guide and upload a file for a quote.
