PLA vs PETG vs TPU: which 3D printing material?

PLA: the all-rounder

The most popular 3D printing material in the world, and for good reason.

PLA (polylactic acid) is made from corn starch. It is easy to print, holds its dimensions very accurately and reproduces fine detail.

Properties. PLA stands out for its stiffness and its surface quality: smooth finishes, crisp edges and sharp details. Of all FDM materials, it gives the best-looking results. Its tensile strength is comparable to the others (about 50 MPa), but it is more brittle than PETG. Its glass transition temperature is fairly low, around 55-60 °C, so it can deform in strong heat.

Best for: visual prototypes and presentation models, figurines and decorative collectibles, enclosures and cases that take no load, architectural models, art pieces and cosplay props to be painted.

Limits. PLA is not suited to hot places (inside a car in summer, near an engine) or to repeated mechanical stress. For functional parts under load, choose PETG.

PETG: the tough one

The material for parts that must cope with knocks, damp and heat.

PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is the 3D printable version of the PET used in plastic bottles, modified so it prints more easily.

Properties. PETG combines mechanical strength with some flexibility. Unlike PLA, it doesn't snap suddenly: it bends first (plastic deformation). Its impact resistance is much higher, which makes it a reliable choice for functional parts. It withstands temperatures up to about 80 °C, has good chemical resistance and isn't bothered by damp, whereas PLA can weaken over time.

Best for: mechanical parts and working gears, car and motorbike parts (brackets, clips, covers), electronics enclosures and protective covers, outdoor parts (reasonable UV resistance), containers and practical storage.

Limits. PETG is a little harder to finish than PLA: sanding is less clean, and it can produce stringing (fine threads) while printing. On very small details, its dimensional accuracy is slightly below PLA.

TPU: the flexible one

An elastic material that behaves like rubber.

TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is elastic and soft. It's the obvious choice for any part that has to absorb shocks, bend or stretch without breaking.

Properties. TPU is very flexible, with a Shore A hardness between 85 and 95, similar to the sole of a running shoe. It is practically unbreakable: where PLA would snap, TPU absorbs the energy and returns to its shape. It resists abrasion, water, oils and many chemicals, and its heat resistance is fair (up to about 70-80 °C, depending on the blend).

Best for: seals and gaskets, protective cases for phones and devices, shock absorbers and anti-vibration mounts, insoles and heel pads (shoes, ski boots), flexible wheels and belts.

Limits. TPU is the slowest to print of the three and needs specific machine settings. Its dimensional accuracy is lower than PLA or PETG, very fine details are harder to reproduce, and it is not suitable for parts that must stay rigid.

PLA, PETG and TPU comparison table

Which 3D printing material for your project?

Need advice on the material?

Upload your file on our order page, or tell us what the part is for, and we'll recommend the material that suits it best. Every colour is charged at the same price; only the type of material changes the cost (see our 3D printing cost guide).

You can ask us in English through the contact form (photos and files welcome), on WhatsApp or by phone at +33 7 59 72 51 81, or by email at contact@toulouse3dprint.fr.

Frequently asked questions

Can several materials be combined in one print?

Not in the same part: a single-extruder FDM printer prints one material per part. Parts printed in different materials can, however, be assembled to combine their properties, for example a PETG frame with TPU seals.

Is PLA biodegradable?

PLA is bio-based (made from corn starch) and industrially compostable, but it does not break down in nature or in a home compost bin. It is still a greener choice than oil-based plastics such as ABS.

Which material handles heat best?

PETG withstands up to about 80 °C, against 55-60 °C for PLA. For hot environments, such as near an engine or in prolonged sunshine, PETG is the best choice among our materials.

Can TPU be washed?

Yes. TPU stands up very well to water and everyday cleaning products. It is water-repellent and doesn't degrade in damp conditions, which makes it ideal for parts exposed to the weather or to liquids.

Which material should I use for a part that lives outdoors?

PETG: it resists water and UV. PLA is not recommended outdoors, and TPU is an option when the part also needs to be flexible.

Which material is easiest to sand and paint?

PLA. It sands cleanly and takes primer and paint well, which is why we recommend it for cosplay props and figurines. PETG sands less cleanly, and TPU is the hardest to finish.