{a} vs {b}
| Property | Nylon (PA) | Polycarbonate (PC) |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 250–280 °C | 270–310 °C |
| Bed temperature | 70–90 °C | 100–120 °C |
| Enclosure | Recommended | Recommended |
| Density | 1.14 g/cm³ | 1.2 g/cm³ |
| Strength | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Heat resistance | ~110 °C | ~120 °C |
| UV resistance | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Flexibility | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Print difficulty | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Typical price | ~$35/kg | ~$40/kg |
Quick verdict
- Stronger part: A tie.
- More heat resistant: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Better outdoors: A tie.
- Easier to print: A tie.
- Cheaper: Nylon (PA)
{name} in short
Extremely strong, tough, and wear resistant. It is also very hygroscopic: it must be dried and printed from a dry box, or it will print foamy and weak.
{name} in short
One of the strongest and most heat resistant filaments available. Needs a hot nozzle, a heated chamber, and a hardened setup. Best reserved for experienced users.