PLA vs ABS 3D Printing
PLA and ABS are the two most common FDM filaments. PLA is easy to print, rigid and biodegradable; ABS is tougher and heat-resistant but harder to print and prone to warping.
| PLA | ABS | |
|---|---|---|
| Printability | Very easy; no enclosure needed | Warps; needs a heated bed + enclosure |
| Strength | Rigid but more brittle | Tougher, better impact resistance |
| Heat resistance | Softens ~60 °C | Holds to ~100 °C |
| Finishing | Glossy; sands/paints well | Matte; can be acetone-smoothed |
| Best for | Prototypes, display models, low-stress parts | Functional, automotive, heat-exposed parts |