Choosing between PLA and ABS filament can make or break your 3D printing project. These two thermoplastics dominate the FDM printing world, yet they couldn’t be more different in their properties and applications.
Here’s the bottom line: PLA offers ease of use and eco-friendliness, while ABS delivers durability and heat resistance. Your choice depends on what you’re printing, where it’ll be used, and your printing setup. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about PLA vs ABS plastic to make the right decision.
You’ll discover the key differences in strength, temperature resistance, printing requirements, and real-world applications. We’ll also cover costs, safety considerations, and provide a decision framework to match the perfect filament to your specific needs.
Quick Answer: PLA vs ABS at a Glance
The 30-Second Summary
Choose PLA when you need: • Easy printing with minimal setup requirements • Biodegradable material for eco-conscious projects • High detail and sharp corners for display models • Safe printing without toxic fumes
Choose ABS when you need: • Parts that withstand temperatures above 60°C • Impact-resistant components for functional use • Outdoor durability and UV resistance • Professional finishing with acetone smoothing
Key Differences Table
| Property | PLA | ABS |
| Printing Temperature | 180-220°C | 220-250°C |
| Bed Temperature | 20-60°C (optional) | 90-110°C (required) |
| Tensile Strength | 37-60 MPa | 27-30 MPa |
| Glass Transition Temp | 60°C | 105°C |
| Impact Resistance | Low | High |
| Biodegradable | Yes | No |
| Printing Difficulty | Beginner-friendly | Intermediate |
| Warping Tendency | Minimal | High |
| Fumes | Minimal, sweet smell | Strong, requires ventilation |
| Cost per kg | $20-40 | $20-40 |
| Surface Finish | Glossy | Matte |
| Post-Processing | Limited | Extensive options |
| UV Resistance | Poor | Good |
| Chemical Resistance | Low | Moderate |
| Flexibility | Rigid/Brittle | Moderate flexibility |
What Is PLA Filament?
Understanding Polylactic Acid
PLA stands for Polylactic Acid, a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like cornstarch, sugarcane, and tapioca roots. Unlike petroleum-based plastics, PLA represents a sustainable choice for environmentally conscious makers and businesses.
The manufacturing process involves fermenting plant starches to produce lactic acid, which is then polymerized into long-chain molecules. This creates a material that’s both strong and biodegradable under the right conditions, making it unique among 3D printing filaments.
Major manufacturers have embraced PLA for its versatility and eco-friendly properties. From LEGO’s sustainable product initiatives to medical implants, PLA has proven its worth across industries.
PLA Properties and Characteristics
PLA exhibits impressive mechanical properties for a biodegradable material. With a tensile strength ranging from 37 to 60 MPa, it actually surpasses ABS in pure pulling force, though it lacks flexibility and impact resistance.
The material’s density of 1.24-1.3 g/cm³ makes it slightly heavier than ABS. However, its stiffness (flexural modulus of 3.8-4 GPa) provides excellent dimensional stability for precise parts and detailed models.
Biodegradability sets PLA apart from other filaments. Under industrial composting conditions at 65°C, PLA breaks down within 50 days. In water environments, complete degradation occurs within 48 months, though home composting isn’t feasible due to lower temperatures.
Common PLA Variants
Standard PLA serves most printing needs, but manufacturers have developed enhanced versions for specific applications. PLA Plus (PLA+) incorporates additives that improve impact resistance and flexibility while maintaining easy printing characteristics.
PLA plus vs ABS comparisons often show PLA+ bridging the gap between materials. These enhanced formulations offer better layer adhesion and reduced brittleness, though they still can’t match ABS’s heat resistance.
Specialty PLA types include silk PLA for ultra-glossy finishes, wood-filled PLA for authentic textures, and metal-filled variants for unique aesthetics. Each maintains PLA’s fundamental printing ease while adding distinctive properties.
What Is ABS Filament?
Understanding Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
ABS combines three distinct monomers to create a versatile engineering plastic. Acrylonitrile provides chemical resistance, butadiene adds impact strength, and styrene contributes to rigidity and processability.
This petroleum-based thermoplastic has dominated manufacturing since the 1950s. Its proven track record spans automotive parts, consumer electronics, and toys, establishing ABS as an industry standard for durable goods.
The molecular structure of ABS is amorphous, meaning it lacks crystalline regions. This characteristic enables excellent post-processing options and contributes to its signature matte finish when 3D printed.
ABS Properties and Characteristics
ABS delivers moderate tensile strength (27-30 MPa) but excels in impact resistance and toughness. Its elongation at break ranges from 3.5% to 50%, demonstrating superior flexibility compared to PLA’s brittle 4-6%.
The material’s lower density (1.0-1.4 g/cm³) makes it lighter than PLA. Combined with a flexural modulus of 2.1-7.6 GPa, ABS provides an optimal balance of strength and weight for functional parts.
Temperature resistance defines ABS’s primary advantage. With a glass transition temperature of 105°C, parts maintain structural integrity in environments that would deform PLA. This heat tolerance enables automotive and outdoor applications.
ABS in Real-World Applications
LEGO bricks exemplify ABS’s capabilities perfectly. These iconic toys require precise dimensions, impact resistance, and decades of durability – all properties that ABS delivers consistently.
Industrial applications leverage ABS for protective housings, automotive trim, and tool handles. The material’s ability to withstand vibration, moderate heat, and repeated impacts makes it ideal for demanding engineering applications.
Consumer products from keyboard keycaps to phone cases rely on ABS. Its balance of cost, durability, and aesthetic options has maintained its position as a go-to material for product designers worldwide.
Head-to-Head Comparison: PLA vs ABS Properties
Strength and Mechanical Properties
Is ABS or PLA stronger? The answer depends on how you define strength. PLA wins in pure tensile strength at 37-60 MPa versus ABS’s 27-30 MPa, making it technically “stronger” when pulled apart.
However, ABS excels in practical toughness. Its superior elongation (up to 50% vs PLA’s 6%) means ABS bends before breaking, while PLA tends to shatter under impact. This makes ABS better than PLA for parts experiencing sudden forces or drops.
Layer adhesion also differs significantly. ABS bonds between layers create more isotropic parts, meaning strength remains consistent regardless of print orientation. PLA’s layer bonds, while adequate, create more orientation-dependent strength.
Temperature Resistance
The PLA vs ABS melting point comparison reveals critical differences for application planning. PLA softens around 60°C – the temperature inside a car on a sunny day – while ABS maintains rigidity up to 105°C.
Print temperatures tell a similar story. PLA extrudes smoothly at 180-220°C, while ABS requires 220-250°C. This 40-degree difference impacts printer requirements and energy consumption during production.
Real-world scenarios highlight these differences. A PLA phone holder will deform on your car dashboard, while an ABS version functions perfectly. Conversely, PLA works excellently for indoor decorations where temperature isn’t a concern.
Printing Difficulty and Requirements
PLA earns its reputation as the beginner’s choice through forgiving print characteristics. Minimal bed adhesion issues, low warping tendency, and no requirement for enclosures make it accessible to entry-level printers.
ABS demands more from both printer and operator. A heated bed (90-110°C) is mandatory, and an enclosed chamber prevents warping from temperature differentials. These requirements often push beginners toward PLA initially.
Print speed remains similar for both materials at 40-60 mm/s. However, ABS’s tendency to warp means slower first layers and careful cooling management, potentially extending total print time despite similar feed rates.
Surface Finish and Post-Processing
Natural finish differs noticeably between materials. PLA produces glossy, smooth surfaces ideal for display models, while ABS yields a professional matte finish preferred for functional parts.
Post-processing options heavily favor ABS. Acetone vapor smoothing transforms layer lines into glass-smooth surfaces – a technique impossible with PLA. Both materials accept sanding, though PLA requires gentler treatment.
Painting and gluing present different challenges. ABS bonds excellently with model cement and accepts most paints. PLA needs special adhesives and may require primer for optimal paint adhesion, limiting finishing options.
Environmental and Safety Considerations
Biodegradability and Eco-Impact
PLA’s plant-based origins create a smaller carbon footprint than petroleum-derived ABS. Manufacturing PLA requires 65% less energy and generates 68% fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional plastics.
However, biodegradability claims require context. PLA only decomposes under industrial composting conditions (65°C with specific humidity). Home composting won’t work, and landfill conditions preserve PLA almost indefinitely.
ABS lacks biodegradability but offers recycling potential. Many facilities accept ABS waste, and failed prints can be chemically dissolved for reuse. This circular potential somewhat offsets its petroleum origins.
Printing Fumes and Ventilation
Safety differences between materials are substantial. PLA releases minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during printing, producing a sweet smell some compare to waffles or popcorn.
ABS emits significant VOCs including styrene, a potential carcinogen. Research confirms ABS releases 10-20 times more ultrafine particles than PLA during printing.
Proper ventilation becomes mandatory with ABS. Install exhaust fans, use enclosures with filters, or print in well-ventilated areas. PLA’s lower emissions make it suitable for home offices and educational settings.
Real-World Applications Guide
Best Uses for PLA
PLA excels in applications prioritizing aesthetics over durability. Architectural models showcase PLA’s ability to capture fine details and maintain dimensional accuracy throughout complex geometries.
Educational environments benefit from PLA’s safety profile. Schools use it for STEM projects, allowing students to design and print without extensive ventilation systems or safety concerns.
Prototyping represents PLA’s sweet spot. Rapid iteration of designs, form studies, and proof-of-concept models leverage PLA’s easy printing and low cost. The difference between PLA ABS filament becomes clear in these applications.
Best Uses for ABS
Functional parts requiring durability choose ABS consistently. Brackets, housings, and mechanical components benefit from ABS’s impact resistance and moderate flexibility under load.
Outdoor applications demand ABS’s UV resistance and temperature tolerance. Garden tools, exterior fixtures, and automotive accessories maintain integrity despite weather exposure that would degrade PLA rapidly.
Manufacturing jigs and fixtures utilize ABS’s toughness. These shop-floor tools endure repeated use, chemical exposure, and occasional impacts that would shatter PLA alternatives.
Industry-Specific Recommendations
Engineering firms typically stock both materials. PLA handles initial prototypes and presentation models, while ABS produces functional test parts and end-use components requiring durability.
Medical applications split by use case. PLA’s biocompatibility suits single-use items and surgical guides. ABS serves durable medical equipment housings and repeatedly sterilized tools.
Hobbyists often start with PLA before graduating to ABS for advanced projects. Cosplayers particularly value ABS for armor and props requiring post-processing and outdoor durability.
Cost Analysis and Availability
Material Cost Comparison
Base material costs remain surprisingly similar. Both PLA and ABS typically range from $20-40 per kilogram spool, with premium brands reaching $50-75 for specialty formulations.
Hidden costs differentiate the materials significantly. ABS’s warping tendency increases failure rates, potentially doubling material consumption for complex parts. Failed prints represent pure waste and time loss.
Equipment requirements add another cost layer. ABS needs enclosed printers, heated chambers, and ventilation systems. These infrastructure costs can exceed $500-1000, dwarfing raw material expenses.
Long-term Value Assessment
Durability impacts total cost of ownership dramatically. An ABS part lasting five years may prove cheaper than replacing PLA versions annually, despite higher initial printing costs.
Energy consumption varies between materials. PLA’s lower printing temperature saves approximately 20-30% on electricity costs compared to ABS, adding up over high-volume production runs.
Storage requirements affect inventory costs. ABS tolerates moisture better than PLA, reducing need for climate-controlled storage and desiccant systems that preserve filament quality.
Advanced Considerations
Hybrid Approaches
Strategic material combination maximizes both materials’ strengths. Print PLA support structures for complex ABS parts, leveraging PLA’s easy removal and ABS’s durability for the final component.
Multi-material printers enable composite parts. Create rigid PLA frameworks with flexible ABS hinges or clips, combining properties impossible with single materials.
Dissolvable supports expand possibilities further. PVA supports enable complex PLA geometries, while HIPS supports complement ABS printing for previously impossible overhangs and internal structures.
Alternative Materials
PETG emerges as the compromise candidate when is ABS or PLA better debates reach stalemates. It combines PLA’s ease with ABS’s durability, though at higher cost.
Nylon surpasses both materials for ultimate strength and chemical resistance. When neither PLA nor ABS meets requirements, nylon’s superior properties justify its printing challenges.
Specialty filaments fill niche needs. TPU provides flexibility neither PLA nor ABS offers, while PC (polycarbonate) delivers heat resistance exceeding even ABS’s capabilities.
Making Your Decision: A Step-by-Step Framework
The 5-Question Decision Tree
1. Will the part experience temperatures above 60°C? If yes → Choose ABS. If no → Continue to question 2.
2. Does the part need impact resistance or flexibility? If yes → Choose ABS. If no → Continue to question 3.
3. Will it be used outdoors or exposed to UV? If yes → Choose ABS. If no → Continue to question 4.
4. Do you have a heated bed and enclosure? If no → Choose PLA. If yes → Continue to question 5.
5. Is biodegradability or low emissions important? If yes → Choose PLA. If no → Either material works.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overlooking ventilation needs tops the error list. New users often discover ABS’s fume issues mid-print, creating health hazards and unpleasant working conditions.
Ignoring printer limitations causes endless frustration. Attempting ABS on basic printers without heated beds guarantees failure and wasted material. Verify capabilities before material selection.
Choosing based on price alone misses hidden costs. Failed prints, equipment upgrades, and replacement parts often make “cheaper” materials more expensive long-term.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ABS stronger than PLA?
ABS offers better impact resistance and flexibility, making it tougher for real-world use. However, PLA has higher tensile strength (37-60 MPa vs 27-30 MPa), meaning it resists pulling forces better. Choose ABS for durability, PLA for rigid strength.
Can I switch between PLA and ABS on the same printer?
Yes, but prepare for adjustments. Clean the nozzle thoroughly when switching materials to prevent clogs. ABS requires a heated bed (90-110°C) and preferably an enclosure, while PLA prints on basic setups.
Which filament is better for beginners?
PLA wins for beginners hands-down. Lower printing temperatures, minimal warping, and no toxic fumes create a forgiving learning environment. Master PLA before attempting ABS’s challenges.
How long do PLA and ABS prints last?
Indoor PLA prints last decades with minimal degradation. ABS prints survive even longer, maintaining properties for 20+ years. However, outdoor PLA degrades within 1-2 years, while ABS endures 5-10 years minimum.
Can PLA be used outdoors?
PLA performs poorly outdoors. UV radiation causes brittleness and color fading within months. Temperature fluctuations accelerate degradation. Reserve PLA for indoor applications or temporary outdoor use only.
Conclusion
The PLA vs ABS debate ultimately depends on your specific application requirements. PLA shines for detailed models, prototypes, and eco-conscious projects where ease of printing matters most. Its biodegradability and safe printing characteristics make it perfect for beginners and educational settings.
ABS proves its worth for functional parts requiring temperature resistance, impact durability, and professional finishing options. Despite printing challenges, its mechanical properties and post-processing capabilities justify the extra effort for demanding applications.
Consider starting with PLA to master 3D printing fundamentals before advancing to ABS for specialized projects. Keep both materials in your arsenal – successful makers know that matching material properties to application requirements ensures optimal results every time.
Remember: the best filament is the one that meets your project’s specific needs while working within your equipment’s capabilities.
