{a} vs {b}
| Property | PLA | TPU |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 190–220 °C | 220–240 °C |
| Bed temperature | 50–60 °C | 40–60 °C |
| Enclosure | Not required | Not required |
| Density | 1.24 g/cm³ | 1.21 g/cm³ |
| Strength | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Heat resistance | ~55 °C | ~70 °C |
| UV resistance | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Flexibility | 1/5 | 5/5 |
| Print difficulty | 1/5 | 4/5 |
| Typical price | ~$20/kg | ~$30/kg |
Quick verdict
- Stronger part: A tie.
- More heat resistant: TPU
- Better outdoors: TPU
- Easier to print: PLA
- Cheaper: PLA
{name} in short
The default filament. Prints easily on almost any machine, holds detail well, and is cheap. It softens at low temperatures, so it is a poor choice for hot cars or functional outdoor parts.
{name} in short
Flexible, rubber-like filament. Prints slowly and needs a direct-drive extruder or a well-tuned Bowden setup. Great for phone cases, gaskets, and wearables.