PLA
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.
Easy Prints on open printers 1.24 g/cm³ ~$20/kg
Print settings (starting points)
| Nozzle temperature | 190–220 °C |
|---|---|
| Bed temperature | 50–60 °C |
| Enclosure | Not required |
| Drying | 45 °C × 4 h |
| Density | 1.24 g/cm³ |
| Max continuous use | ~55 °C |
Properties
| Property | Rating |
|---|---|
| Strength | ●●●○○ |
| Heat resistance | ●●○○○ |
| UV / weather resistance | ●●○○○ |
| Flexibility | ●○○○○ |
| Print difficulty | ●○○○○ |
Pros
- Easiest to print
- Cheapest
- Sharp detail
- Low warp
Cons
- Softens above ~55 °C
- Brittle over time
- Poor UV resistance
Best uses
Models and miniatures Prototypes Household items Cosplay props
Printers suited to PLA
Machines that meet this material's enclosure, temperature and extruder needs.
Creality Ender 3
220×220×250 mm · Open frame
Creality Ender 3 V2
220×220×250 mm · Open frame
Creality Ender 3 V3
220×220×250 mm · Open frame
Creality Ender 3 S1
220×220×270 mm · Open frame
Creality Ender 5 S1
220×220×280 mm · Open frame
Creality K1
220×220×250 mm · Enclosed
Creality K1 Max
300×300×300 mm · Enclosed
Bambu Lab A1 mini
180×180×180 mm · Open frame
Bambu Lab A1
256×256×256 mm · Open frame
Cost and usage
At ~${price}/kg, 100 g of {name} costs about ${per100}. Use the {lenTool} to turn a printed weight into metres, or the {costTool} for a full price.