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Materials guide

PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA or TPU?

A practical guide to the plastics we print with: what each one is good at, where it falls short and the kinds of parts it suits.

At a glance

How they compare

Ratings are relative to each other — a general guide, not a specification.
Relative comparison of PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA and TPU
MaterialToughHeatOutdoorFinish
PLALowerLowerLowerHigher
PETGHigherModerateModerateModerate
ABSModerateHigherLowerModerate
ASAModerateHigherHigherModerate
TPUHigherModerateModerateLower

More bars = better. Tap a material for details.

Material details

PLA

Polylactic acid

Crisp detail for models and visual prototypes

The easiest material to print accurately. PLA is stiff and gives a clean surface finish, which makes it a good default for visual prototypes, display models and fit checks. It softens at relatively low temperatures, so it isn't suited to hot environments.

Toughness
Lower (1 of 3)
Heat resistance
Lower (1 of 3)
Outdoor / UV
Lower (1 of 3)
Detail & finish
Higher (3 of 3)

Typically good for

  • Concept and presentation models
  • Fit and form checks
  • Display pieces and figurines
  • Indoor fixtures with light loads

Things to consider

  • Can deform in hot cars or direct sun
  • More brittle than PETG under impact
  • Not recommended for long-term outdoor use

PETG

Polyethylene terephthalate glycol

A tough, practical all-rounder for functional parts

PETG is tougher and slightly more flexible than PLA, with better resistance to heat and moisture. It's a common choice for functional parts such as brackets, clips, enclosures and workshop fixtures.

Toughness
Higher (3 of 3)
Heat resistance
Moderate (2 of 3)
Outdoor / UV
Moderate (2 of 3)
Detail & finish
Moderate (2 of 3)

Typically good for

  • Brackets, mounts and clips
  • Enclosures and housings
  • Jigs and fixtures
  • Parts exposed to moisture

Things to consider

  • Surface is a little glossier and less crisp than PLA
  • Fine details can show slight stringing
  • Prolonged sun exposure: ASA is usually better

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

Heat-tolerant parts that can be post-processed

ABS handles higher temperatures than PLA or PETG and is widely used for enclosures and parts that sit near warm equipment. It can be sanded and post-processed well. It is more demanding to print, especially for large flat parts.

Toughness
Moderate (2 of 3)
Heat resistance
Higher (3 of 3)
Outdoor / UV
Lower (1 of 3)
Detail & finish
Moderate (2 of 3)

Typically good for

  • Enclosures near warm electronics
  • Vehicle interior parts
  • Parts that will be sanded or finished
  • Mechanical housings

Things to consider

  • Large flat parts can warp during printing
  • Yellows and weakens in prolonged sunlight
  • Less dimensionally forgiving than PLA

ASA

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate

Built for sun and weather

ASA behaves much like ABS but is formulated to resist UV and weathering, so it holds its colour and properties better outdoors. It's a strong option for parts that will live outside.

Toughness
Moderate (2 of 3)
Heat resistance
Higher (3 of 3)
Outdoor / UV
Higher (3 of 3)
Detail & finish
Moderate (2 of 3)

Typically good for

  • Outdoor brackets and fixtures
  • Exterior housings and covers
  • Garden, marine-adjacent and signage parts
  • Parts in direct sunlight

Things to consider

  • Like ABS, large flat parts can warp
  • Usually costs more than PLA or PETG
  • Not every colour may be available

TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

Flexible and rubber-like

TPU is a flexible, rubber-like material that bends and springs back. It absorbs impact and resists wear, which makes it the choice for parts that need to grip, seal, cushion or flex rather than stay rigid.

Toughness
Higher (3 of 3)
Heat resistance
Moderate (2 of 3)
Outdoor / UV
Moderate (2 of 3)
Detail & finish
Lower (1 of 3)

Typically good for

  • Gaskets, seals and grommets
  • Bumpers, feet and protective covers
  • Grips and handles
  • Flexible clips and straps

Things to consider

  • Not rigid: it won't hold a precise shape under load
  • Prints slowly, so printing time costs more
  • Fine detail and sharp edges are softer than PLA

Quick picker

Not sure where to start?

A good-looking model or prototype to show people
PLA
A tough functional part used indoors
PETG
A part that sits near heat, such as electronics or an engine bay surround
ABS or ASA
A part that will live outside in the sun
ASA
A flexible, rubber-like part such as a gasket, bumper or grip
TPU
I'm not sure
Tell us about it — we'll advise

Not sure which material?

Describe your part — we'll advise.

  • Send a photo
    of your part
  • Upload a sketch
    or file (STL, STEP, etc.)
  • Tell us what you need
    and we'll take it from there
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