{a} vs {b}
| Property | Polycarbonate (PC) | ABS |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 270–310 °C | 240–260 °C |
| Bed temperature | 100–120 °C | 95–110 °C |
| Enclosure | Recommended | Recommended |
| Density | 1.2 g/cm³ | 1.04 g/cm³ |
| Strength | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Heat resistance | ~120 °C | ~95 °C |
| UV resistance | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Flexibility | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Print difficulty | 5/5 | 4/5 |
| Typical price | ~$40/kg | ~$20/kg |
Quick verdict
- Stronger part: Polycarbonate (PC)
- More heat resistant: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Better outdoors: Polycarbonate (PC)
- Easier to print: ABS
- Cheaper: ABS
{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.
{name} in short
A classic engineering plastic with high heat resistance and the ability to be smoothed with acetone. Warps badly without an enclosure and produces fumes, so ventilation is required.