PLA vs PETG: Which is the Best 3D Printing Filament?
When it comes to 3D printing, choosing the right filament is essential to get high quality prints. Two of the most popular filaments on the market are PLA and PETG. But which one is best for your specific needs? In this blog post, we'll compare PLA and PETG and help you determine which is best for you.
What is PLA?
PLA, or polylactic acid, is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugar cane or potato starch. It is one of the most widely used filaments in 3D printing due to its ease of use and wide availability. PLA is a low warp material, meaning it has minimal shrinkage during the cooling process, making it ideal for printing large or complex objects. It also has a low melting temperature, making it easier to print and requires less cooling than other filaments.
What is PETG?
PETG, or glycol modified PET, is a strong, durable plastic widely used in the packaging industry. It is a newer filament on the market but has quickly gained popularity in the 3D printing community due to its improved properties over PLA. PETG is more impact and heat resistant than PLA, making it ideal for functional parts that need to withstand wear and tear. It also has a slightly higher melting temperature, which can lead to improved layer adhesion and reduced bending.PLA vs PETG: Which Is Better?
So, which filament is the best choice for your project? The answer depends on your specific needs and the features that are most important to you. Here are some key differences to consider:- Ease of use: Printing with both PLA and PETG is relatively easy, but PLA can be a bit easier due to the lower melt temperature and minimal warping. This is a good choice for beginners or those new to 3D printing.
- Strength and durability: PETG is stronger and more durable between the two materials, making it a better choice for functional parts or objects that need to withstand wear and tear. However, PLA is still a strong and durable material and is often used for a wide variety of applications.
- Heat resistance: PETG is more heat resistant than PLA, making it a better choice for applications where the printed object will be exposed to high temperatures or heat. PLA is still heat resistant, but can deform at high temperatures.
- Cost: PLA is generally cheaper than PETG, making it a more budget-friendly option for those on a tight budget.