Which Filament to Choose? 3D Printing Material Selection Guide
Which filament to choose? A quick guide by project type
Choosing the right filament determines the success of your 3D print. Each material has different properties, different printer requirements, and suits different projects. Here you'll find a clear comparison, specific recommendations, and direct links to materials in stock.
Filament comparison by properties
| Material | Print difficulty | Strength | Heat resistance | Best for | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | ⭐ Easy | Medium | 55 °C | Beginners, decorations, prototypes | €10.99 |
| PETG | ⭐⭐ Medium | High | 75 °C | Functional parts, outdoor accessories | €11.99 |
| ABS | ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced | High | 100 °C | Technical parts, electronic enclosures | €11.99 |
| ASA | ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced | High | 100 °C | Outdoor use (UV resistant) | €16.99 |
| Nylon (PA) | ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced | Very high | 110+ °C | Gears, fixtures, bearings | €24.99 |
| TPU (Flex) | ⭐⭐ Medium | Elastic | 60 °C | Gaskets, cases, flexible parts | €19.99 |
| PC (polycarbonate) | ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced | Extreme | 120+ °C | Industrial parts, impact resistance | €27.99 |
| Composites (CF) | ⭐⭐⭐ Advanced | Extreme | Varies | Lightweight stiff parts, fixtures | €27.99 |
By project: what to choose?
🎨 Decorations, figurines, gifts
We recommend: PLA - easiest to print with a huge range of colors and effects. For a silky sheen try Silk filaments. No enclosure or special build plate needed.
🔧 Functional parts and prototypes
We recommend: PETG - the universal choice for parts that need to withstand stress. Resistant to water, chemicals, and mechanical loads.
☀️ Outdoor use
We recommend: ASA - like ABS but with UV resistance. Won't yellow, crack, or degrade in direct sunlight for years. Requires an enclosed printer.
🏭 Industrial and technical applications
We recommend: Nylon, PC or composites - for parts under mechanical and thermal stress.
🔄 Flexible parts, gaskets, cases
We recommend: TPU - rubber-like material for anything that needs to bend.
💰 Best value for money
For everyday projects, PLA is the best choice. For high-volume printing, save with refill spools or value multipacks.
Need advice?
Not sure which material to pick? Contact us - we're happy to help you choose the right filament for your specific project.
Browse our complete range of 3D printing filaments - all in stock with fast EU shipping.