Owning a 3D printer opens the door to a universe of endless possibilities. Whether you plan on making something functional like prosthetics or recreational like tabletop gaming parts, there is a common thing you need: 3D printer filament. 3D printing turns a whole project into tiny little slices, then prints with filament from the bottom up. Those small layers stick together to form a solid object.

The raw material that keeps your 3D printer running has countless types available. So how do you know which one will be best for your projects? Below we cover all the best 3D printer filaments. We found all the best 3D filaments are flexible, strong, and easy to use. Your type of 3D printer will determine what kind of filament you can use. Make sure you look at your 3D printer manufacturer's guide for specific instructions regarding filament. With such variety at hand, it's easier than ever to create functional, visually striking, and durable prints. To help you find the best 3D printer filament, we reviewed the best and made a buyer's guide to aid you in your search.

• There are various types of 3D printer filaments available, each with its own strengths and characteristics.
• PLA filament is the most popular and easy-to-use option, known for its low warping and biodegradability.
• ABS filament offers durability and impact resistance but may emit unpleasant odors during printing.
• PETG filament combines toughness with ease of use and is suitable for outdoor applications.
• Flexible filament provides rubber-like properties but requires special considerations during printing.
• Consider the specific requirements of your project and the characteristics of each filament type before making a decision.

PLA Filament

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most common and easy-to-use 3D printer filament. It is made from renewable resources and is biodegradable. PLA is known for its low warping and shrinking properties, making it suitable for a wide range of 3D printing projects. It is available in various colors and finishes, including metallic and translucent options.

Some of the pros of PLA filament include:

• Ease of use
• Wide availability
• Non-toxicity
• Affordability

However, PLA may require additional post-processing, such as sanding, and it can be brittle and warp in high-temperature environments. Popular brands for PLA filament include MatterHackers Build PLA, Flashforge Burnt Titanium PLA, and Inland Shimmer PLA.

With its renewable and biodegradable nature, PLA filament offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for 3D printing. Its ease of use and wide availability make it a popular choice among beginners and experienced users alike. While it may have some limitations, such as brittleness and warping, proper handling and post-processing techniques can mitigate these issues.

PLA filament is versatile and ideal for a variety of 3D printing projects, from functional prototypes to artistic creations.

When choosing PLA filament, consider factors such as color options, filament diameter, and brand reputation. Experimenting with different brands and settings can help you find the best PLA filamentfor your specific needs.

ABS Filament

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) filament is a highly durable and impact-resistant material commonly used in industries such as automotive and electronics. Its robust properties make it an excellent choice for functional and structural parts in 3D printing projects.

Unlike PLA filament, ABS requires a higher melting temperature, which allows for the creation of strong and reliable prints. Its ability to withstand impact makes it ideal for applications that require durability and strength.

Popular brands for ABS filament include Inland 1.75mm Black ABS and Fillamentum ExtraFill ABS.

The Pros of ABS Filament

• Durability: ABS filament is known for its superior durability, making it suitable for long-lasting prints.
• Impact resistance: ABS can withstand high levels of impact, making it ideal for parts that need to endure stress or strain.
• Functional prints: Its higher melting temperature allows for the creation of functional and structural parts.

The Cons of ABS Filament

• Unpleasant odors: ABS filament can emit unpleasant odors during the printing process, requiring adequate ventilation.
• Warping and shrinking: ABS is more prone to warping and shrinking compared to PLA filament, requiring careful attention to printing conditions and the use of a heated bed.

While ABS filament offers excellent durability and impact resistance, it is important to consider its specific characteristics and requirements before use. Take proper precautions for ventilation and printing conditions to achieve optimal results.

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Modified) filament combines the toughness of ABS with the ease of use of PLA. It is known for its high impact resistance and flexibility. PETG filament is transparent and has good chemical resistance. It is suitable for functional and outdoor parts due to its UV resistance.

However, PETG filament may require a heated bed and has a higher melting temperature than PLA. It is also more prone to stringing and oozing during printing. Despite these challenges, PETG filament is a popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts for its versatility and durability.

PETG Filament Pros

• High impact resistance
• Flexibility
• Transparent
• Good chemical resistance
• UV resistance for outdoor applications

PETG Filament Cons

• May require a heated bed
• Higher melting temperature than PLA
• Prone to stringing and oozing

With its unique combination of toughness and usability, PETG filament offers a reliable choice for a variety of 3D printing projects. Whether you're creating functional parts or outdoor accessories, PETG filament delivers the strength and durability you need.

Popular brands for PETG filament include Protomaker Translucent PETG and MatterHackers Pro series PETG.

Flexible filament, also known as TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) filament, is highly flexible and elastic. It is used for creating objects that require rubber-like properties, such as phone cases and shoe soles. Flexible filament is resistant to abrasion and impact, making it suitable for functional parts. However, it can be more challenging to print with flexible filament due to its flexible nature. Specialized extruders or modifications may be required for optimal results. Popular brands for flexible filament include Ataraxia Art and Inland rainbow TPU.

Pros of Flexible Filament:

• Highly flexible and elastic
• Resistant to abrasion and impact
• Suitable for creating objects with rubber-like properties

Cons of Flexible Filament:

• More challenging to print with due to its flexible nature
• May require specialized extruders or modifications for optimal results

"Flexible filament is a game-changer for creating functional and innovative 3D prints. From phone cases to custom gaskets, its rubber-like properties provide endless possibilities. However, mastering the art of printing with flexible filament requires patience and trial-and-error."

Conclusion

Choosing the right 3D printer filament is crucial for achieving the desired results in your 3D printing projects. When comparing different filament types for 3D printing, it's important to consider factors such as ease of use, durability, and specific project requirements.

PLA filament is a popular choice due to its wide availability, affordability, and ease of use. It is suitable for a variety of projects and comes in a wide range of colors and finishes. ABS filament, on the other hand, offers enhanced durability and impact resistance, making it ideal for functional parts. However, it may require additional precautions during printing, such as a heated bed.

PETG filament combines the toughness of ABS with the ease of use of PLA, making it a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor applications. It offers good chemical resistance and UV resistance. When it comes to creating rubber-like objects, flexible filament, or TPU filament, provides the necessary flexibility and elasticity. However, printing with flexible filament requires special considerations and may require modifications to your printer setup.

In conclusion, knowing the different filament types for 3D printing and comparing 3D printer filament brands can help you make an informed decision for your projects. Consider the specific requirements of your printing project, the desired characteristics of the filament, and the recommendations from reliable brands. With the wide range of filament options available, you have the opportunity to unleash your creativity and bring your 3D printing projects to life.