Some people may be using PETG and PLA but there are pros and cons to each filament. While both are thermoplastics, one is aesthetically pleasing while the other boasts of impressive mechanical strength. To find out which is which, here are the differences between PLA and PETG.
1. Physical strength
Winner: PETG
While some PLA filaments and blends are meant to reinforce them, PLA, in general, is not typically known for its mechanical strength. In fact, there’s a reason why PLA is best suited for toys and figurines that won’t be put under stress or heat.
On the other hand, PETG has better physical strength. It can also withstand higher temperatures and harsh elements of the sun and weather, making it a perfect material for outdoor decors and items.
2. Ease of printing
Winner: PLA
PLA is the easiest filament to print with and there is no other filament that can rival it. However, PETG is not far behind. Sure, it is recommended to use a heat bed when printing with it and it may have some oozing and stringing issues from time to time. PETG is still a fairly user-friendly filament.
3. Versatility
Winner: PLA
PLA is the artist’s filament. It can mimic other materials, thanks to special PLA blends. Such examples are: X3D Pro Marble, X3D Pro Blue Marble, X3D Pro Wood, X3D Pro White Marble, X3D Pro Stone, StoneFil - Granite, StoneFil - Pottery Clay, and StoneFil - Terracotta.
PLA can also have different finishes without the need for post-processing. It can appear sparkly, silky, metallic, or gradient. You can check out the sparkly X3D Pro Diamond Series, metallic X3D Pro Silk PLA, and gradient Eryone Rainbow filaments to see what we’re talking about.
PLA also has a wide range of colour options, something that PETG can’t compete with. While PETG’s colour options are not something to laugh about, it can’t hold a candle to PLA where it comes in over 20 colours just under our X3D Pro PLA filament alone.
4. Post-processing
Winner: PLA
If you want to achieve different finishes or glue different 3D-printed parts together, PLA is the best choice for you. PETG can’t stand being glued together. Both can tolerate being painted with acrylics.
5. Price
Winner: BOTH!
PETG is typically more expensive than PLA. Fortunately, X3D has irresistible deals on filaments that make PETG and PLA at the same price! Our X3D Pro PETG is currently on sale while our PLA is just as affordable as ever. Both are priced at $39.95. To make the deal even sweeter, you can buy 4 of any X3D Pro filaments including PLA and PETG and get the cheapest one for free!
PETG vs PLA: Which is better?
In conclusion, print with PLA if you are a beginner who wants to enjoy unlimited creativity when 3D printing. As you build up experience and skills in 3D printing, you can then move on to PETG to create stronger and functional prints.
Part of the fun and challenge of 3D printing is experimenting with different 3D printer filaments. We challenge you to step outside your comfort zone with our wide range of X3D Pro filaments! Take advantage of our Buy 4, get the cheapest free promo this week to try experiment with different filaments.