3D Printer Filament Comparison Guide

Standard Filaments

PLA 3D Printer Filament Polylactic Acid Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

205±15 °C

Bed Temp

40±15 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is one of the two most commonly used desktop 3D printing filaments (with the other being ABS filament). It is the "default" recommended material for many desktop 3D printers, and with good reason - PLA is useful in a broad range of printing applications, has the virtue of being both odorless and low-warp, and does not require a heated bed. PLA filament is also one of the more eco-friendly 3D printer materials available; it is made from annually renewable resources (corn-starch) and requires less energy to process compared to traditional (petroleum-based) plastics. Outside of 3D printing, PLA plastic is often used in food containers, such as candy wrappers, and biodegradable medical implants, such as sutures. PLA filament for 3D Printing is available in a wide range of colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PLA, check out How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.


PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PLA filament is a stiff but brittle 3D printing material.
  • Best used for cosmetic prints, prototypes, desk toys, low-stress applications.
  • Best 3D printer material for beginners due to ease of printing and minimal warp.

ABS 3D Printer Filament Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

230±10 °C

Bed Temp

90±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape / Hairspray

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another commonly used 3D printer material. Best used for making durable parts that need to withstand higher temperatures. In comparison to PLA filament, ABS plastic is less "brittle" and more "ductile." It can also be post-processed with acetone to provide a glossy finish. When 3D printing with ABS filament, a heated printing surface is recommended, as ABS plastic will contract when cooled leading to warped parts. ABS filament is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm diameter sizes. For tips and tricks on 3D printing ABS, check out How To Succeed When Printing With ABS.


ABS 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • ABS filament is strong, ductile material with wear resistance and heat tolerance.
  • Common 3D prints with ABS are Interlocking parts like gears, parts exposed to UV and heat like a car cup holder, or prototyping.
  • Wide selection of methods for excellent post-processing.

PRO Series PLA 3D Printer Filament Polylactic Acid Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

205±15 °C

Bed Temp

50±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

MatterHackers PRO Series PLA 3D printing filament is a high-quality material made with NatureWorks 4043D Ingeo™, a polylactic acid biopolymer. Made in the USA, PRO Series PLA filament is designed to produce accurate and seamless 3D printed parts perfect for prototyping end-use parts, life-like models, or for taking your everyday 3D printing to a higher caliber. With a diameter and ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, PRO Series PLA produces better parts while keeping your printer running great. Available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm with spools ranging from 1kg up to 10lbs in weight, any prototyping or production needs can be met with PRO Series PLA. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series PLA, check out How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.


PRO Series PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PRO Series PLA filament is a hard but brittle material with a wide selection of rich colors.
  • Best used for cosmetic prints, prototypes, desk toys, or low-stress applications.
  • Best beginner material due to low to no shrinkage and warp.

PRO Series ABS 3D Printer Filament Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

235±5 °C

Bed Temp

90±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape / Hairspray

MatterHackers PRO Series ABS 3D printing filament is formulated to highlight the best properties of the material, like strength and good interlayer adhesion. PRO Series ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) filament is an excellent material for functional prototyping and intricate end-use parts. PRO Series ABS can withstand temperatures of up to 85°C and has a tensile strength of up to 6520 PSI, making it the perfect solution for applications like fit testing, tooling, concept models, and even short-run manufacturing. Available in both 1.75mm and 2.85mm, PRO Series ABS is produced to more precise specifications and has an ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series ABS, check out How To Succeed When Printing With ABS.


PRO Series ABS 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • ABS filament is a stiff but brittle 3d printing material.
  • Best used for interlocking parts like gears, parts exposed to UV and heat like a car cup holder, or prototyping.
  • Best 3D printer material for a wide selection of methods for excellent post-processing.

Tough PLA 3D Printer Filament Polylactic Acid Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

205±15 °C

Bed Temp

35±15 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

Tough PLA takes the ease of use of regular PLA and steps it up. Where normal PLA will warp and soften from very little heat, Tough PLA has heat resistance up to 60°C. Some easily machinable materials like ABS come with their own hurdles, like overhangs, warping, and inter-layer adhesion, but this Tough PLA has been modified to be more machinable than traditional PLA and makes it more reliable than ABS for larger prints. Since it is PLA, it is still compatible with the usual support materials, giving you full geometric freedom when designing parts. Tough PLA is available only in 3mm or 1.75mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Tough PLA check out the printing techniques used for PLA: How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.


Tough PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Impact strength is much closer to ABS, making it better suited for practical applications.
  • Easy-to-print and reliable makes it ideal for printing models with large volumes.
  • When paired with PVA, complex curves, internal details, and harsh overhangs 3D print beautifully.

PRO Series Tough PLA 3D Printer Filament Polylactic Acid Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±30 °C

Bed Temp

50±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

MatterHackers PRO Series Tough PLA 3D printing filament is engineered for strength and durability while taking advantage of the reliability and ease-of-use that PLA is known for - it's a powerful alternative to ABS. Made in the USA, PRO Series Tough PLA can't be beat for functional prototyping. Boasting a higher impact strength than standard PLA and a heat tolerance comparable to that of ABS, PRO Series Tough PLA is manufactured to ensure that your 3D prints perform as well as they look. Tough PLA is produced with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm and is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm diameters. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series Tough PLA check out the printing techniques used for PLA: How To Succeed When Printing In PLA.


PRO Series Tough PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Impact strength is much closer to ABS, making it better suited for practical applications.
  • Easy-to-print and reliable makes it ideal for printing models with large volumes.
  • When paired with PVA, complex curves, internal details, and harsh overhangs 3D print beautifully.

ColorFabb nGen 3D Printer Filament Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

250±10 °C

Bed Temp

80±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

ColorFabb nGen is the perfect filament for beginners or those who don't want to constantly refine print settings. Because this material prints well at a wide range of temperatures and speeds, you can spend less time refining your settings and more time printing. nGen flows very well through the print nozzle and does not clog often. This filament is great for creating durable parts while avoiding print failures and the need to adjust print settings. nGen has the astounding ability to print parts with many bridges successfully where other materials have failed. Additionally, nGen has a very opaque and crisp looking appearance when printed. Although best printed on a heated bed, BuildTak or a similar adhesive can minimize warping. nGen is available in a variety of colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


nGen 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • nGen filament is a stiff but brittle 3d printing material with an excellent surface finish.
  • Designed for ease-of-use printing and minimal settings tweaking, making it great for both cosmetic and functional parts.
  • Low-odor and easy to print like PLA, yet high heat resistance like ABS.

Glow-In-The-Dark 3D Printer Filament Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±30 °C

Bed Temp

50±30 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Glow-in-the-dark filament is a great product to decorate children's bedrooms, from glowing light switches to a starry sky on the ceiling. Your prints will shine brightest immediately after turning out the lights, but dim quickly to a soft glow in the night. Use your normal print settings for PLA or ABS (depending on which is the base filament), but add more perimeters to your prints. The more perimeters, the more glow. Be aware, we have seen reports that Glow-in-the-dark filament is abrasive and has worn out nozzles; you may want to install a hardened steel nozzle to prevent wear out. Glow-in-the-dark filament is available with a PLA filament base and ABS filament base in both 1.75mm and 3mm diameter sizes. Glow in the Dark NinjaFlex (TPU) is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm as well.


Glow-in-the-dark 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Glow-in-the-dark filament has properties comparable to base filament with added pigments to glow in the dark.
  • Commonly used for light switch covers, ceiling stars, and novelty decorations.
  • Available in PLA, ABS, and TPU based filament.

NylonX 3D Printer Filament Polyamide With Chopped Carbon Fiber Strands Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

260±10 °C

Bed Temp

60±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock Garolite

NylonX 3D printing filament is an amazing, reinforced nylon filament. By adding micro-carbon fibers to nylon, you get a tough filament capable of printing parts with stiffness, impact resistance, and high tensile strength. NylonX filament is an engineering grade filament, ready for home 3D printing, which gives you the durability of Nylon combined with the stiffness of carbon fiber. The best part of NylonX is that the carbon fiber adds stability and rigidity, so parts are much less likely to warp than with standard nylon. With a unique matte black finish, NylonX eliminates post-print processing. Finished prints can immediately be moved to production with no sanding, polishing, scraping, or pesky acetone vapor baths. If you are already printing with Nylon, it's time to upgrade to Nylon X. NylonX is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing NylonX, check out A Closer Look at 3D Printing with NylonX.


NylonX 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • NylonX filament is strong like carbon fiber and durable like nylon.
  • Best used for tough functional parts, wear parts, and production-ready prints.
  • Printed parts come off the bed with zero post processing required.

NylonG 3D Printer Filament Polyamide With Chopped Glass Fiber Strands Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

260±10 °C

Bed Temp

60±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock Garolite

NylonG 3D printing filament follows in the footsteps of NylonX with its rigidity and strength. While chopped carbon fiber strands make NylonX awesome, they firmly cement NylonX as a black colored filament. NylonG uses chopped glass fibers instead, allowing it to be available in a variety of colors, like red, white, and blue! The chopped glass fibers give benefits similar to carbon fiber; the parts are stiffer and less prone to warping than regular nylon, but the glass fibers make the 3D printed part extremely impact resistant. NylonG is 33% more resistant to impact than NylonX! With a matte finish, NylonG eliminates post-3D print processing - finished prints need no sanding to look production ready. NylonG is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing NylonG check out the printing techniques used for NylonX:A Closer Look at 3D Printing with NylonX.


NylonG 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • NylonG 3D printing filament is strong like glass fiber and durable like nylon.
  • Best used for tough functional parts, wear parts, and production-ready prints.
  • Strong parts not under constant load, but face sudden impact.

Nylon 3D Printer Filament Polyamide Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

255±15 °C

Bed Temp

70±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock Garolite

Nylon is an incredibly strong, durable, and versatile 3D printing material. Flexible when thin, but with very high inter-layer adhesion, nylon lends itself well to things like living hinges and other functional parts. Nylon filament prints as a bright natural white with a translucent surface, and can absorb color added post process with most common, acid-based clothing dyes or synthetic cloth specific dyes. Nylon filament is extremely sensitive to moisture, so taking drying measures during storage and immediately prior to printing (using desiccant, vacuum, or elevated temperature) is highly recommended for best results. Taulman Nylon is a specially formulated 3D printing Nylon filament that comes in a variety of sizes and packages, including 1-, 2-, and 3-packs of both 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Nylon, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Nylon.


Nylon 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Nylon filament is strong yet flexible making it tough to break and shatter resistant.
  • Commonly used for living hinges, functionally strong parts.
  • Must be dried before printing for strength and a glossy finish.

PRO Series Nylon 3D Printer Filament Polyamide Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

240±10 °C

Bed Temp

60±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock Garolite

MatterHackers PRO Series Nylon 3D printing filament is a great solution for 3D printed parts that require strength and durability. PRO Series Nylon is a versatile material that is characteristically flexible but can also be exceptionally tough, making it perfect for impact-resistant parts that require shock absorption. Engineers, designers, and manufacturers turn to PRO Series Nylon filament for its mechanical stability, low coefficient of friction, and natural chemical resistance. Produced to a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, PRO Series Nylon filament is available in both 1.75mm and 2.85mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing Nylon, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Nylon.


PRO Series Nylon 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PRO Series Nylon filament is strong yet flexible making it tough to break and shatter resistant.
  • Commonly used for living hinges, functionally strong parts.
  • Must be dried before printing for strength and a glossy finish, and is available in a variety of colors.

PET (PETG, PETT) 3D Printer Filament Polyethylene Terephthalate Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

245±10 °C

Bed Temp

60±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

You'll be hard pressed to find true PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) filament, as most PET filaments are actually copolymers - PET with an extra molecule. The most common, PETG filament, is an industrial strength filament with several great features. Figuratively speaking, it combines the ease of use of PLA filament with the strength and durability of ABS filament. First, its strength is much higher than PLA and it is FDA approved for food containers and tools used for food consumption. Unlike ABS filament, it barely warps, and produces no odors or fumes when printed. PET filament is not biodegradable, but it is 100% reclaimable. It's known for its clarity and is also very good at bridging. PET 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PETG, check out How To Succeed When Printing With PETG.


PET 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PET filament is a durable and flexible 3d printing material with a glossy finish and is impact and heat resistant.
  • Best used for mechanical parts and snap fit enclosures.
  • Sticks incredibly well to blue painters tape.

PRO Series PETG 3D Printer Filament Polyethylene Terephthalate Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

250±10 °C

Bed Temp

65±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

MatterHackers PRO Series PETG 3D printing filament is an exceptionally tough and sturdy material that is a terrific alternative to PLA and ABS. PETG filament has incredible minimal shrinkage, making it a great solution for parts that need to be impact resistant and pliable. MatterHackers PRO Series PETG filament is specifically formulated to enhance PETG's natural properties, like durability, heat and chemical resistance, and ease-of-use. PETG 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm. For tips and tricks on 3D printing PETG, check out How To Succeed When Printing With PETG.


PRO Series PETG 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PETG filament is a durable and flexible 3D printing material with a glossy finish and is impact and heat resistant.
  • Best used for mechanical parts and snap fit enclosures.
  • Sticks incredibly well to blue painters tape.

PRO Series RYNO 3D Printer Filament Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

240±10 °C

Bed Temp

65±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

MatterHackers PRO Series Ryno 3D printing filament is a professional level copolyester perfect for strong, functional prototypes. Capable of yielding clean, durable, and complex prints, PRO Series Ryno is formulated to have superior bridging properties and temperature and chemical resistance. Excellent for industrial modeling, end-use parts, tooling, and more, Ryno's versatility and ease-of-use make it a solid choice for not only professional printing, but everyday projects as well. Produced with a precise ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, RYNO 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm.


PRO Series RYNO 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • RYNO filament is a durable and flexible 3D printing material that also has superior chemical and heat resistance.
  • Best used for prototyping strong, functional mechanical parts.
  • Sticks incredibly well to blue painters tape.

ASA 3D Printer Filament Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

250±10 °C

Bed Temp

90±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Hairspray

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA) was developed as an alternative to ABS. With a number of additional features, like improved weather resistance and resistance to yellowing from UVs, making it an excellent choice for parts or prints meant for outdoor use. Where white ABS will turn a pale yellow over time, ASA will remain a bright white for much longer. ASA has print settings very similar to ABS with only the printing temperature being different. ASA filament is available in several colors in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


ASA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • ASA filament is a UV, weather, and temperature resistant material in addition to regular ABS properties.
  • Best used for outdoor clips, planters, fixtures, other outdoor parts.
  • If you're printing something designed for outdoor use, ASA should be your go to 3D printing material.

PolyPropylene 3D Printer Filament PP Standard Filaments

Extruder Temp

250±15 °C

Bed Temp

110±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Packing Tape

PolyPropylene filament (PP) has a number of uses as a 3D printing material. Its best use is for packaging, food-safe containers, and living hinges. Polypropylene material has a much better ability to elongate without breaking when compared to PLA filament. It also resists impact better than PLA as well. Where PLA plastic tends to shatters and snap while Polypropylene plastic bends and squeezes into place. However, Polypropylene can be difficult to stick well to most print surfaces, including glass, kapton tape, PEI, and some packaging tapes. Most packaging tape is made with Polypropylene and it will stick to that, otherwise it won't work. With the right type of packaging tape, a bed temperature of 120°C and an extrusion temperature of 240°C produces great prints. PolyPropylene filament is available in a clear color in 3mm


PolyPropylene 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PolyProylene filament is flexible and chemically inert 3D printing material.
  • Commonly used for living hinges, medical devices, and chemistry equipment.
  • Very hygroscopic, making drying before printing an essential step.

Flexible Filaments

PRO Series Flex 3D Printer Filament Flexible Filaments

Extruder Temp

230±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±15 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

MatterHackers PRO Series Flex TPE 3D printing filament is a tough, flexible material with high elasticity. PRO Series Flex materials retain incredible structure, making them a great solution for parts that require abrasion-resistance, shock-resistance, and pliability. With an elongation rate of 600%, shore hardness of 98A, and chemical-resistant properties, PRO Series Flex flexible 3D printing filament can be used for prototyping, end-use products, and custom 3D printed parts. Produced down to a precive ovality tolerance of ± 0.02mm, PRO Series Flex filament is available in 1.75mm and 2.85mm.


PRO Series Flex 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PRO Series Flex filament creates rubbery, elastic, and impact resistant parts.
  • Best used for stoppers, belts, caps, phone cases, bumpers and more.
  • The less infill you use, the more flexible your finished print will be.
For tips and tricks on 3D printing PRO Series Flex, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament.

TPE 3D Printer Filament Flexible Filaments

Extruder Temp

220±10 °C

Bed Temp

30±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

TPE filament is a flexible 3D printing material that feels and acts much like flexible rubber. TPE filament can be used to make parts that can bend or must flex to fit their environment: stoppers, belts, springs, phone cases, and more. This extremely flexible 3D printer material will allow you to create 3D prints that will have the properties of a soft rubber, making it even more flexible and elastic than our Soft PLA filament. Due to its flexibility, much slower print speeds must be used to keep the filament from binding in the extruder. TPE 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


TPE 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • TPE filament creates rubbery, elastic, and impact resistant parts.
  • Best used for stoppers, belts, caps, phone cases, bumpers and more.
  • The less infill you use, the more flexible your finished print will be.
For tips and tricks on 3D printing TPE, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament.

PCTPE 3D Printer Filament Flexible Filaments

Extruder Temp

235±10 °C

Bed Temp

70±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape / Hairspray

PCTPE (Plasticized Copolyamide TPE) is another great filament by Taulman. It is a combination of Nylon and TPE. When printed, it's flexible like normal TPE, but the added Nylon means this filament will work even in a bowden setup. It has very low shrinkage and can be dyed with any acid based color thanks to the wonderful properties of nylon. Print settings are closest to ABS filament, with a print temp of 235°C and most other settings the same. PCTPE 3D printing filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


PCTPE 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PCTPE filament is flexible and dyeable, but added nylon makes it really easy to print.
  • Some common prints with PCTPE include cosplay armor, phone enclosures, and industrial parts.
  • Use clothing dye designed for synthetic fabrics to dye your prints any color.
For tips and tricks on 3D printing PCTPE, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament.

Soft PLA 3D Printer Filament Polylactic Acid Flexible Filaments

Extruder Temp

230±10 °C

Bed Temp

30±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Soft PLA, also known as 'flexible' PLA, is useful for printing rubber-like parts that can bend or flex. It is compatible with almost all desktop 3D printers. Soft PLA is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


Soft PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Soft PLA creates rubbery, elastic, and impact resistant parts.
  • Best used for stoppers, belts, caps, phone cases, bumpers and more.
  • The less infill you use, the more flexible your finished print will be.
For tips and tricks on 3D printing Soft PLA, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament.

TPU 3D Printer Filament Thermoplastic Polyurethane Flexible Filaments

Extruder Temp

250±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an elastic, oil/grease resistant, and abrasion-resistant material with a shore hardness of 95A. TPU Plastic has several applicable uses including automotive instrument panels, caster wheels, power tools, sporting goods, medical devices, drive belts, footwear, inflatable rafts, and a variety of extruded film, sheet and profile applications. It is also commonly used in mobile phone cases. TPU is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


TPU 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • TPU filament creates rubbery, elastic, and impact resistant parts.
  • Best used for stoppers, belts, caps, phone cases, bumpers and more.
  • The less infill you use, the more flexible your finished print will be.
For tips and tricks on 3D printing TPU, check out How To Succeed When Printing With Flexible Filament.

Composite Filaments

LAYBRICK 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

190±10 °C

Bed Temp

35±15 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

LAYBRICK is a 3D printing material that gives parts the look and feel of grey stone while retaining the resiliency of plastic, making it ideal for landscape and architectural designs. Anything made with LAYBRICK can be painted and sanded. In the lower range of 165°C to 190°C, the print will come out mostly smooth, whereas with higher temperatures it will begin to have a more pitted, sandstone-like texture. LAYBRICK is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.


LAYBRICK 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • LAYBRICK filament is a stiff but brittle 3d printing material with a stone or sandstone texture.
  • Best used for faux-stone, model train scenery, architectural models.
  • You can get different textures on your prints depending on your extruder temperature.

Wood 3D Printer Filaments Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

220±30 °C

Bed Temp

30±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

LAYWOO-D3, ColorFabb's Woodfill series, and Timberfill are wood-like 3D printer materials that give 3D printed objects the look and feel of fiberboard. They imbue parts with other wood-like attributes, such as the ability be cut, painted, and sanded. These filaments use PLA as their base, and mix other materials (usually in powder form)into them. The PLA gives the 3D printer compatibility and ease of use while the material contributes to the look, feel, and properties of the filament. With Woodfill, LAYWOO-D3, and Timberfill, you get the color and texture of real wood with your finished prints, but with Corkfill, you get the added benefit of its light weight. With these organic fills, be cautious of too high of a temperature, as it will result in the wood burning which will give you a darker colored print. It is important to remove the filament from the extruder fairly soon after finishing a print, as the filament will begin to burn in the nozzle and start to clog it. These filaments are all available in both 1.75mm or 3mm unspooled and spooled rolls.


Wood PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Wood filaments looks and feels similar to actual wood with printing properties of PLA.
  • Best used for wooden busts, sculptures, or tikis. Anything really complex to chisel.
  • Different extruder temperatures produce different colors; the hotter, the darker.

Conductive 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

220±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Conductive Filament is a modified PLA, designed for low voltage and low current circuitry. This conductive PLA filament will print objects that are more flexible than normal PLA but have less layer adhesion. In addition, this filament works with all PLA compatible 3D printers. Conductive PLA filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


Conductive 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Conductive filament is slightly flexible and conductive to low power circuitry.
  • Best used for functional prototypes, integrated circuitry, complex electronic wiring.
  • Best printed in a dual extrusion printer, as it sticks really well to regular PLA.

LayCeramic 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

265±10 °C

Bed Temp

35±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

LayCeramic filament is clay engineered for 3D Printers that can be used to make ceramic objects. LayCeramic has all the capabilities of normal clay including the ability to be fired and glazed to give it a nice glossy look and increase strength. 3D Printing with LayCeramic will require a few additional upgrades to your Printer including a full metal hotend, a filament warmer (LayCeramic is brittle), and a kiln which isn't necessary, but part of the clay sculpting process. LayCeramic filament is available in 3mm.


LayCeramic 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • LayCeramic filament is very brittle but can be fired in a kiln to achieve a ceramic texture and be able to apply a glaze.
  • Best used mugs, model roofing tiles, ashtrays, sculptures, or pottery.
  • A filament warmer makes printing significantly easier and a kiln takes this filament from interesting to amazing.

Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Proto Pasta Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA filament provides excellent structural strength and layer adhesion with very low warpage. Due to the carbon fiber contained in the filament, it has increased rigidity, therefore increased structural support is built right in. The carbon fiber in the filament is specifically designed to be small enough to fit through the nozzles, but long enough to provide the extra rigidity that makes this reinforced PLA necessary for any hobbyist that needs rugged prints. Carbon Fiber filament is perfect for printing items that should not bend, such as: frames, supports, propellers, and tools. Drone builders and RC Hobbyists love this filament, and it is made in the USA. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Carbon Fiber Reinforced PLA filament is a strong, ductile material with wear resistance and heat tolerance
  • Best used for drone bodies, propellers, and RC car frames.
  • PLA provides ease of printing, carbon fiber provides rigidity.

ColorFabb BrassFill, BronzeFill, and CopperFill 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Glass

These metal infused PLA filaments are tougher to print than MH Build PLA filament, but because of the metal blended with the plastic, prints are heavier and thus, feel more authentic. Finished 3D prints can be sanded and polished to create beautiful and unique pieces. Unpolished, the filament looks like cast metal fresh from a mold, with a dull, matte, gritty appearance. With just a little finishing and polishing, however, you can easily create any look like you desire. 3D Printing with these metals is perfect for printing jewelry, props, costumes, figurines, and robots. These filaments are great not only for hobbyists looking to make faux metal prints, but serious designers as well. BrassFill, BronzeFill, and CopperFill are available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • These filaments print like PLA but slower, with finished prints being hard and heavy.
  • Best used for cosmetic prints of busts, jewelry, or sculptures.
  • Best results can be achieve by rock tumbling, polishing, or wet sanding to achieve a super smooth surface finish.

Proto Pasta Stainless Steel and ColorFabb SteelFill 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

200±10 °C

Bed Temp

35±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

These steel PLA filaments are tougher to print than MH Build PLA , but because of the steel fibers blended with the plastic, prints are heavier and thus, feel more authentic. Finished steel 3D prints can be sanded and polished to create beautiful and unique pieces. Unpolished, the Stainless Steel filament looks like cast metal fresh from a mold. With just a little finishing and polishing, however, you can easily create any look like you desire. 3D Printing Steel is perfect for printing jewelry, props, costumes, figurines, and robots. These steel filaments are great not only for hobbyists looking to make faux metal prints, but serious designers as well. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. These filaments are available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • These filamentThese filaments print like PLA but slower, with finished prints being hard and heavy.
  • Best used for cosmetic prints of busts, jewelry, or sculptures.
  • Best results can be achieve by rock tumbling, polishing, or wet sanding to achieve a super smooth surface finish.

Magnetic Iron PLA 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

200±10 °C

Bed Temp

35±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Magnetic Iron PLA filament is truly one of a kind. Because of the iron powder blended into the PLA filament, this Iron filament is magnetic. The filament itself isn't a magnet, but magnets will stick to it. We recommend a printing temperature that is about 10-20 degrees lower than you would print with MH Build PLA material. To get a rusty look, "scuff" your finished print with a wire brush to expose more of the iron particles to the air. Then, spray vinegar onto your print and let it dry, doing this three or our times. Mix 16oz of hydrogen peroxide with 2oz of vinegar and 1 Tbs of salt in a spray bottle, and spray the print and watch as it rusts in front of you. Let dry and repeat as many times as desired. Magnetic Iron PLA filament can bring a worn and rusty look to any print. Due to its high abrasion, before printing you will need to install a hardened steel nozzle on your printer. Proto Pasta Magnetic Iron PLA filament is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm.


Magnetic Iron 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • Magnetic Iron filament prints like PLA but slower, with finished prints being hard and heavy.
  • Best used for cosmetic prints of busts, accessories, or aged-metal props.
  • Best results can be achieve by rock tumbling, polishing, or wet sanding to achieve a super smooth surface finish, and an extra effect of rusting lightly for an aged and worn look.

PORO-LAY Series 3D Printer Filament Composite Filaments

Extruder Temp

220±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Lay-Felt, Gel-Lay, and Lay-Fomm 40 and 60 can all be characterized as highly porous and flexible filaments.These materials are made from a rubber-elastomeric polymer and a PVA-component. This means that part of this filament is water soluble, and once you soak this material in water, the PVA component dissolves and disappears and the rubber polymer remains as your micro-porous object. Lay-Felt is ideal for making filters, 3D membranes, semipermeable membranes, and any flexible yet felt-like object.


PORO-LAY Series 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PORO-LAY filament is flexible and highly porous, qith textures ranging from felt, jelly, or sponge.
  • Potential use in filters, permeable membranes, jellyfish models, stamps, or intricate sponges depending on the material.
  • Soak in water to bring out the full potential of these unique and experimental filaments.

Specialty Filaments

Polycarbonate 3D Printer Filament Specialty Filaments

Extruder Temp

290±20 °C

Bed Temp

130±15 °C

Bed Adhesion

GlueStick/Hairspray

Polycarbonate (PC) Polycarbonate is strong and very resistant to impact - this material is used when making bullet-proof glass. Not only is polycarbonate an extremely tough and durable thermoplastic material it is also very resistant to temperature. This material is malleable when cool and can bend without cracking. Polycarbonate is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


PC 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PC filament extremely high temperature resistant and impact resistant.
  • Potential uses in printed RC parts or drone parts.
  • An all-metal hotend for this high-temp material is required.

Bendlay 3D Printer Filament Specialty Filaments

Extruder Temp

225±15 °C

Bed Temp

35±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

Bendlay is an exciting new filament that is extremely translucent (91% of light passes through) and also is quite flexible. This extremely translucent material will allow you to print nearly clear items, while at the same time being remarkably resilient and elastic. BendLay is a modified Butadiene, which is safe for household and food products. BendLay has a high interlayer adhesion, making it a really easy-to-print filament. Compared to ABS filament, it absorbs far less moisture from the air and thus cuts down on warping significantly. Bendlay filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


BendLay 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • BendLay filament is a tough and ductile 3D printing material with 91% light transmission.
  • Best used ornate cups, containers, or translucent objects.
  • High layer adhesion and food-safe means you can print ornate cups and containers with this filament.

MoldLay 3D Printer Filament Specialty Filaments

Extruder Temp

175±10 °C

Bed Temp

35±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Blue Painters Tape

MoldLay is a material specifically engineered for moldmaking. Use MoldLay filament to 3D print objects that you want to make a mold of OR investment cast. MoldLay will easily melt out of negative impressions with very little residue. It is structurally sound with zero warping so you will get a mold of exactly what you print. MoldLay filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


MoldLay 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • MoldLay filament is a 3D printing material with zero warp and easy printing properties.
  • Best used for objects you want to mold that are too intricate to sculpt from wax.
  • Designed for silicone molding or completely vaporizing for investment casting.

Continuous Fiber 3D Printer Filament Specialty Filaments

Extruder Temp

245±15 °C

Bed Temp

60±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

PVA Based Glue

Like MatterHackers NylonX, continuous fiber materials are designed for production ready parts. Whereas most 3D printing materials are meant for rapid prototypes and models for testing, continuous fiber filaments are ready to be printed and put to use. When using strong base filaments like Nylon with continuous fibers of fiberglass, carbon fiber, or Kevlar, printed parts are prepared to face real use and stress without breaking while maintaining a professional and beautiful finish.


Continuous Fiber Filament Properties:

  • Continuous fiber filament is strong, durable, and ready to take abuse.
  • Best used for production parts, drone bodies, or even manufacturing molds.
  • Although the simplest adhesive is PVA glue, a bed made of Garolite is your best option for your build platform.

Support Filaments

PVA 3D Printer Filament Polyvinyl Alcohol Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

180±20 °C

Bed Temp

45±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

PVA (Polyvinyl Alcohol) filament prints translucent with a slightly yellow tint and is primarily used as a 3D printing support material because it is water-soluble, meaning that it will dissolve when exposed to water (and so MUST be kept dry prior to use). PVA is most often used with 3D printers capable of dual extrusion: one extruder printing a primary material (such as ABS or PLA) and the other printing this dissolvable filament to provide support for overhanging features. PVA 3D printer filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


PVA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PVA filament is a stiff, water soluble 3D printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best 3D printer support material for PLA because of similar printing temperatures

PRO Series PVA Water-Soluble Support Material Polyvinyl Alcohol Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

Produce stunning and functional 3D printed parts with the most complex geometries using MatterHackers' reliable PRO Series PVA Water-Soluble Support Material. Engineered to provide both strong bed adhesion and hassle-free cleanup, this filament is capable of successfully supporting the production of the most complex designs with relative ease. Leave 3D printed parts in a container of tap water overnight; come back to zero traces of support in the morning. Compatible with filaments such as PLA, Tough PLA, and Nylon, this support material lets you add complexity to your favorite standard materials. Print intricate designs with zero post-processing struggles using MatterHackers' PRO Series PVA Water-Soluble Support Material.


PRO Series PVA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PRO Series PVA filament is a stiff, water soluble 3D printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best 3D printer support material for PLA because of similar printing temperatures

PRO Series Breakaway Support Material Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

210±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±5 °C

Bed Adhesion

LayerLock PEI

MatterHackers PRO Series Breakaway Support Material is engineered to provide the optimal balance between reliable bed adhesion and clean mechanical breakaway from 3D printed parts. PRO Series Breakaway Support Material is ideal for prints that require support material but that also need to be ready for immediate use after printing - PRO Series Breakaway support material reduces the need for post-processing and boasts a longer shelf life and moisture resistance when compared to other support materials such as PVA or HIPS.


PRO Series Breakaway 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • PRO Series Breakaway filament is a stiff support material that can be quickly and easily removed from printed parts-no need to submerge the print.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best 3D printer support material for PLA and PETG because of similar printing temperatures

HIPS 3D Printer Filament High Impact Polystyrene Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

230±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape/Hairspray

High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS) is very similar to ABS. The main difference is that HIPS plastic can be dissolved using Limonene as a solvent, therefore making it a great option as support material when printing ABS with dual extrusion printer. HIPS filament is as easy to 3D print with as ABS but is much less likely to warp. HIPS filament is available in 1.75mm and 3mm.


HIPS 3D Printing Support Filament Properties:

  • HIPS filament is a rigid, support material that dissolves away in limonene.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best 3D printer support material for ABS because of similar printing temperatures.

LAYaPVA 3D Printer Filament Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

230±10 °C

Bed Temp

55±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape/Hairspray

LAYaPVA is a 3D printing support material designed to quickly dissolve in water. Because it is water soluble, it must be kept in its resealable bag, otherwise it will begin to absorb water. LAYaPVA is best printed at 230°C to achieve the best print viscosity. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, LAYaPVA dissolves the fastest. LAYaPVA is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.


LAYaPVA 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • LAYaPVA filament is a stiff, water soluble 3d printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Dissolves quicker in water than normal PVA

LAY-CLOUD 3D Printer Filament Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

240±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape/Hairspray

LAY-CLOUD is a 3D printing support material designed to support your flexible filament prints. As it is meant to dissolve in water it must be kept in its resealable bag, otherwise it will begin to absorb water. When LAY-CLOUD begins to absorb water, it will start to gel, and when has absorbed as much water as it can, the support material will collapse and turn gooey. LAY-CLOUD is best printed at 240°C to achieve the best print viscosity. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, LAY-CLOUD is the best support material for flexible filaments. LAY-CLOUD is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.


LAY-CLOUD 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • LAY-CLOUD filament is a stiff, water soluble 3d printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best used to support flexible filament.

HIGH-T-LAY 3D Printer Filament Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

240±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape/Hairspray

HIGH-T-LAY is a 3D printing support material designed to quickly dissolve in water. Because it is water soluble, it must be kept in its resealable bag, otherwise it will begin to absorb water. HIGH-T-LAY is best printed at 240°C to achieve the best print viscosity. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, because HIGH-T-LAY prints similarly to HIPS, it is best utilized to avoid that limonene stink when supporting your ABS prints. HIGH-T-LAY is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.


HIGH-T-LAY 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • HIGH-T-LAY filament is a stiff, water soluble 3D printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Use this filament instead of HIPS to avoid using limonene to dissolve it and use water instead.

ETHY-LAY 3D Printer Filament Support Filaments

Extruder Temp

160±10 °C

Bed Temp

50±10 °C

Bed Adhesion

Kapton Tape/Hairspray

ETHY-LAY is a 3D printing support material designed to dissolve in alcohol. Because it is alcohol soluble, it doesn't need to be kept with a desiccant or in a dry environment. When printing with water-sensitive filaments like Nylon, a support material that doesn't need water to be dissolved is ideal. ETHY-LAY is best printed at the low temperature of 165°C to achieve the best print viscosity. In addition, though helpful, it will print just fine without a heated bed. Of the LAY-AWAY Support Series, ETHY-LAY is best used for Nylon, NylonX, NylonG, and bio prints. ETHY-LAY is available in both 1.75mm and 3mm unspooled rolls.


ETHY-LAY 3D Printing Filament Properties:

  • ETHY-LAY filament is a stiff, alcohol-soluble 3D printing support material.
  • Best used for models with internal supports or supports for incredibly detailed models with many overhangs.
  • Best used for nylon based filaments to avoid their hygroscopic properties.
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