11 materials by strength, flexibility, heat/chemical resistance, price and ease of use
Last updated: 2026
| Material | Strength | Flexibility | Heat resistance | Chemical resistance | Price/kg | Ease of use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | Medium (60 MPa) | Low | Low (55-60°C) | Low | ~€15-25 | Very easy |
| ABS | Medium to high (40 MPa) | Medium | Medium (95-105°C) | Medium | ~€18-28 | Medium (warping) |
| PETG | Medium to high (50 MPa) | Medium | Medium (75-85°C) | Good | ~€18-28 | Easy |
| TPU | Medium (30-60 MPa) | Very high | Medium (80-100°C) | Good | ~€25-40 | Medium (flexible) |
| Nylon (PA) | High (70-85 MPa) | High | High (150-180°C) | Very good | ~€30-60 | Hard (moisture) |
| PC | Very high (55-75 MPa) | Medium | High (140-150°C) | Good | ~€35-60 | Hard (warping) |
| PEEK | Exceptional (100+ MPa) | Low | Very high (250°C+) | Excellent | ~€250-600 | Very hard |
| UV Resin (standard) | Medium (40-65 MPa) | Low (brittle) | Low (50-70°C) | Low | ~€25-50/L | Easy (toxic) |
| PA12 (SLS) | High (45-50 MPa) | Medium | High (170°C) | Very good | ~€40-75 | Industrial |
| Ti6Al4V | Exceptional (900+ MPa) | Low | Very high (600°C+) | Excellent | ~€400-1,000 | Industrial |
| 316L (stainless) | Very high (500+ MPa) | Medium | Very high (800°C) | Excellent | ~€100-300 | Industrial |
Among metals, Ti6Al4V (900+ MPa) and 316L stainless steel (500+ MPa). Among filaments, PEEK (100+ MPa), followed by Nylon (70-85 MPa) and PC (55-75 MPa). PLA is 60 MPa but brittle on impact.
PLA is easier to print and cheaper (~€15-25/kg) but brittle and heat-resistant only to 55-60°C. PETG takes more heat (75-85°C), is tougher and has good chemical resistance: better for functional parts outdoors or in contact with liquids.
PEEK (250°C+) and metals (Ti6Al4V 600°C+, 316L up to 800°C). Among affordable filaments, Nylon (150-180°C) and PC (140-150°C). PLA is the least heat resistant (55-60°C).
PLA: very easy, no warping, no enclosure needed. PETG is also easy. ABS and PC are hard due to warping; Nylon is moisture-sensitive.