PLA+ settings for the Creality Ender 3
A starting profile for printing PLA+ on the Creality Ender 3 (220 × 220 × 250 mm, open frame, Bowden). Tune from here with a temperature tower and a flow test.
| Setting | Starting value |
|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 205–225 °C (start 215) |
| Bed temperature | 55–65 °C (start 60) |
| Print speed | 60 mm/s |
| First layer speed | 20 mm/s |
| Layer height | 0.2 mm (0.12–0.28) |
| Retraction distance | 5 mm |
| Retraction speed | 40 mm/s |
| Part cooling fan | 100% |
| Enclosure | Open |
| Drying before use | 45 °C for 4 h |
This is a well-matched combination: the printer meets the material's requirements without compromise.
Why these values
The Creality Ender 3 is a Bowden machine, so it needs longer retraction (around 5 mm) to relieve nozzle pressure. Its usable speed is around 60 mm/s, so the 60 mm/s above is capped to what the machine handles comfortably.
Cooling is set to 100%: this material needs strong cooling for detail and overhangs.
Next steps
- Print a temperature tower across 205–225 °C and pick the cleanest band.
- Calibrate flow, then check the volumetric flow against your hotend.
- If something goes wrong, see the troubleshooting guide.
- Price the part with the cost calculator.