If you’re new to 3D printing or even a seasoned maker looking to choose the best filament, you’ve probably asked this common question: ABS vs PLA – which filament is better for 3D printing?
In this complete, beginner-friendly guide, we will explore both materials in detail, comparing their strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases. Whether you’re printing miniatures, functional prototypes, or durable parts, this guide will help you decide the right material for your next 3D print.
What is PLA?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. It’s one of the most popular filaments for 3D printing, especially for beginners.
Key Characteristics:
- Easy to print
- Low warping
- No heated bed required
- Environmentally friendly
- Brittle under stress
Printing Temperature: 190°C – 220°C
Bed Temperature: Not always needed (but 50°C – 60°C helps)
What is ABS?
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a petroleum-based thermoplastic known for its toughness and impact resistance. It’s widely used in industries like automotive and toys (like LEGO).
Key Characteristics:
- High strength and durability
- Resistant to high temperatures
- Requires a heated bed
- Prone to warping and cracking
- Emits strong fumes while printing
Printing Temperature: 220°C – 250°C
Bed Temperature: 90°C – 110°C
Enclosure Recommended: Yes
PLA vs ABS: Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Let’s break it down with a side-by-side look:
| Feature | PLA | ABS |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Printing | ✅ Very Easy | ❌ Requires experience |
| Print Warping | ✅ Low | ❌ High (needs enclosure) |
| Strength | ❌ Brittle | ✅ Strong & Tough |
| Heat Resistance | ❌ Low (~60°C) | ✅ High (~100°C) |
| Surface Finish | ✅ Smooth | ✅ Smooth (sandable) |
| Eco-Friendliness | ✅ Biodegradable | ❌ Petroleum-based |
| Odor During Printing | ✅ Mild | ❌ Strong/Fumes |
| Best Use Case | Visual models, toys, prototypes | Durable parts, enclosures, mechanical use |
Best Uses of PLA
PLA is the go-to material for:
- Beginners learning 3D printing
- Decorative models and miniatures
- Rapid prototyping
- Educational and school projects
- 3D printed toys or display items
Why choose PLA? It’s forgiving and user-friendly. It doesn’t warp easily and works on most 3D printers without modification.
Best Uses of ABS
ABS is better suited for:
- Functional mechanical parts
- Automotive parts and tools
- Enclosures and protective housings
- Items exposed to higher temperatures
- Durable prototypes and stress-tested models
Why choose ABS? It performs well in high-stress environments. Its strength and heat resistance make it ideal for real-world applications.
Printing Tips: PLA
- Print in a well-ventilated area
- Use a glue stick or painter’s tape for bed adhesion
- Store in a dry, cool place (PLA is hygroscopic)
- Perfect for fast prints with fewer failures
Printing Tips: ABS
- Use an enclosure to maintain temperature and avoid warping
- Print in a ventilated space due to fumes
- Apply ABS slurry or adhesive for better bed adhesion
- Avoid drafts and sudden temperature changes during prints
Environmental Impact: PLA vs ABS
PLA is biodegradable and derived from renewable sources, which makes it more environmentally friendly. It also produces less harmful emissions during printing.
ABS, being petroleum-based, is not biodegradable. It releases fumes (Styrene) that can be harmful in poorly ventilated spaces.
For eco-conscious users or educational purposes, PLA is a better choice.
Cost Comparison
PLA is generally cheaper and more widely available than ABS.
| Filament Type | Avg Price (1kg Spool) |
| PLA | $15 – $25 |
| ABS | $20 – $30 |
The price difference isn’t huge, but PLA offers more value to beginners because of lower setup costs (no heated bed/enclosure needed).
Surface Finishing
Both PLA and ABS can achieve smooth finishes, but they differ in post-processing:
- PLA: Can be sanded, painted, or smoothed with heat. Fragile under stress.
- ABS: Easily sanded and smoothed using acetone vapor, offering a professional look.
If you’re aiming for a polished finish with minimal effort, ABS wins here.
Durability & Lifespan
- ABS can withstand physical abuse, heat, and exposure to sunlight better than PLA.
- PLA may degrade faster over time, especially in hot or humid environments.
For long-lasting prints, especially for outdoor or mechanical use, ABS is better.
Is ABS or PLA Better for Miniatures?
PLA is more suitable for detailed miniatures, figurines, and visual models due to its low print failure rate and cleaner layer lines.
However, if you need tougher miniatures that can handle wear and tear, ABS might be worth the extra effort.
Which Filament Should You Choose?
Ask yourself these questions:
- Am I a beginner? Choose PLA.
- Do I have an enclosure and a heated bed? Then you can try ABS.
- Do I need strength and heat resistance? ABS is your friend.
- Is eco-friendliness important? PLA wins.
- Do I care about fumes or indoor air quality? PLA is safer.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Property | PLA | ABS |
| Easy to Use | ✅ | ❌ |
| Durability | ❌ | ✅ |
| Print Quality | ✅ | ✅ |
| Eco Friendly | ✅ | ❌ |
| Needs Heated Bed | ❌ | ✅ |
| Warping Risk | ❌ Low | ✅ High |
| Post-Processing | Moderate | Excellent |
Final Verdict
Both PLA and ABS have their place in 3D printing. PLA is perfect for beginners, artistic projects, and eco-friendly applications. ABS, on the other hand, is a professional-grade filament for durable, high-performance parts.
If you’re just starting or printing for fun, go with PLA. If you want to print real-world, functional items that last, ABS is worth mastering.
Pro Tip: Many modern printers now support both materials well. So, try both and see what works best for your needs!