PLA vs. ABS: Choosing the Right Filament for Your 3D Printing Needs

1. Introduction

3D printing, or additive manufacturing, has changed the way we design, prototype, and produce objects. Its growing popularity has led to an increased demand for high-quality and versatile printing materials.

Choosing the right type of filament can be a crucial problem in any successful 3D printing project. With such a wide variety of choices, one has to decide which to use-the most two used types, however, being PLA and ABS. This article discusses how they compare in difference in strength and best uses for either one based on the chosen project.


2. What are PLA and ABS Filaments?

2.1 PLA (Polylactic Acid)

PLA is the bioplastic derived from sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. It is very popular with hobbyists and starters because of its eco-friendliness and work ease.

i. Important Properties: It's bio-degradable, and therefore is eco-friendly
Low melting temperature; it has a less likelihood of warping
Available in a variety of bright colors.

ii. Applications: Prototype, decorative prints, low-tolerant working models
Application when aesthetics matter and not so much the strength.

2.2 ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

ABS is a petro-based thermoplastic. It is very strong and scratch-resistant. The material is very common in industrial usage as well as in high-impact resistance products.

i. Major Characteristics:

High thermal resistance and impact strength.
Needs to be printed at a higher temperature and needs to be printed in a controlled environment
It is dangerous to print with this material since it gives fumes. Ventilation must be done when printing ABS.

ii. Common Usage:

Functional parts, automotive parts, and long-lasting toys, for instance, LEGO.

3. Major Difference Between PLA and ABS

Properties* ABS PLA
Tensile Strength** 27 MPa 37 MPa
Elongation 3.5 - 50% 6%
Flexural Modulus 2.1 - 7.6 GPa 4 GPa
Density 1.0 - 1.4 g/cm3 1.3 g/cm3
Melting Point 200 ℃ 173 ℃
Biodegradable No Yes, under the correct conditions
Glass Transition Temperature 105 ℃ 60 ℃
Spool Price*** (1kg, 1.75mm, black) $USD 21.99 $USD 22.99
Common Products LEGO, electronic housings Cups, plastic bags, cutlery


3.1 Strength and Toughness

PLA is less strong and the best it is for aesthetic use, or for low-value products.
ABS has more tensile strength, and more importantly also in toughness; the best for functional or load carrying parts.

3.2 Printability

  • PLA is easy to print with little warping, great for open printers.
  • ABS is harder to print with complex settings in the print head, and a heated bed also, and must be repressed in a closed environment or it will warp and break.

3.3 Thermal Stability

PLA has a relatively low glass transition temperature; it would not fair very well in hotly warm environments.
ABS is good for applications that have to take high temperatures and can handle warm temperatures very well.

3.4 Environmental Impact

PLA is biodegradable and sourced from renewable resources, so it's an eco-friendly option.
ABS is petroleum-based, though it is recyclable, its contribution to the pollution level is relatively higher than PLA's.

3.5 Cost and Accessibility

PLA is cheaper and more accessible
ABS is comparatively expensive due to industrial-grade.

4. How to Select Right Filament Depending upon Your Needs.

4.1 Consider the below points while deciding which one is appropriate between PLA or ABS.

  • Application for Print: PLA is used in decorative applications whereas ABS in functional products
  • Environmental Conditions: PLA is expected to be printed indoors, while ABS is for printing outside or for high-temperature applications.
  • Printer Specifications: Ensure that your printer prints with the temperature and enclosure specifications of ABS.
  • Skill Level: PLA is to be used by novices because it prints well and hardly warps.

5. Advantages/Disadvantages of each material

5.1 PLA (Polylactic Acid)

I. Advantages:

  • Environmentally Friendly: From renewable resources, such as corn starch; biodegradable.
  • Easier to Print: Less warping, the smallest odor, and no heated bed.
  • Highly Detailed: Ideal for intricate models and smooth finishes.
  • Low Temperature: Prints at lower temperatures: 190 – 220°C
  • Energy Saving: Can be printed at lower temperatures.
  • Works on Most 3D Printers: Works well with most 3D printers.

II. Drawbacks:

  • Prone to Brittliness: Less durable and prone to cracking under pressure.
  • Low Heat Resistance: It softens at 60°C, and hence not used for high-temperature applications.
  • Limited Flexibility: This material is poor for applications that require elasticity or impact resistance.
  • Less Weather Resistant: Poor for outdoor applications since it degrades in UV light and moisture.

5.2 ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

  • Strong and Durable: Used when strong functional parts are required that need strength and elasticity.
  • High Temperature Resistance: Able to withstand application subjected to temperatures up to 100°C.
  • Weather Resistant: More suitable for outdoor usage than PLA.
  • Post-Printing: Easy sanding, drilling, or can be made smoothened with acetone.
  • Flexible: More ductile. Usage as in mechanical parts.

II. Drawbacks:

  • Warping: Requires heated bed and precise control environment for not undergoing warping.
  • Odor: It gives a quite strong smell while printing, thus requires proper ventilation.
  • More High Temperature: Prints between 220–250°C uses more energy.
  • Not Environment Friendly: Is manufactured from petroleum-based raw materials and is non-biodegradable.
  • Less Beginner Friendly: Requires exact settings and exact equipment in print.

6. PLA and ABS Printing Rules

6.1 PLA

  • Print at 180–220°C.
  • Allow sufficient cooling with fan for details.
  • Store them in an airtight container in order not to absorb moisture.

6.2 ABS

  • Print at 230–260°C.
  • Hot bed at 80–110°C.
  • Seal the printer from the environment in order to avoid warping and cracking.
  • Do your work in a well-ventilated space to avoid inhalation of the fumes.
  • 7. PLA and ABS: Common Applications

8. Examples Work on Real-Time Execution of Both Form of Filament

i. Model Doll house : Miniature, action figure, architectural. Ability to make details print within fine finish miniature makes this PLA Popular
DIY Art- hand crafted ornament or bead jewelry/painting. It is the major part as many require this owing to the great ability in taking on a variety of color.
ABS Projects:

ii. Rugged Prototypes: In automobile or aerospace industries, the ABS proves helpful for creating strong mechanical parts, testing prototypes, etc.
Household Items: Sturdy storage boxes, stands for holding phones, functional home fixtures are manufactured using ABS to ensure that these items serve well for years to come.

8. Conclusion

Both PLA and ABS are amazing filaments. One might be more preferred than the other due to the specific printing conditions you may require for your project, or perhaps according to the experience you have had so far with 3D printing.
You can test them both, know their benefits and discover all of their possibilities within 3D printing.

10. FAQs

I. Which one is more suitable for outdoor use?
ABS because it is heat-resistant and stronger.

II. How do I minimize warping with ABS?
Use a heated bed, enclosure, and proper adhesive on the bed surface.

III. Is PLA really biodegradable?
Yes, in industrial composting conditions, PLA breaks down to natural components.

IV. What precautions do I need to take when printing with ABS?
They wear protective gear like gloves, masks, and goggles.
The area should be well ventilated, and a mask will prevent inhaling the fumes. 

Back to blog