PLA vs PETG vs ABS: Filament Comparison and Cost Difference
Choosing a filament is not only about strength or looks, it is also a cost question. Materials have different densities, so even at the same price per kg the print volume you get from 1 kg changes. This guide compares the five most common materials in one table.
Comparison table
| Material | Density (g/cm³) | Volume per kg (cm³) | Nozzle (°C) | Bed (°C) | Enclosure | Standout trait | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA | 1.24 | 806 | 190–220 | 0–60 | Not needed | Rigid, easy to print; weak to heat | Easy |
| PETG | 1.27 | 787 | 230–250 | 70–85 | Not needed | Tough, resists moisture and chemicals | Medium |
| ABS | 1.04 | 962 | 230–260 | 90–110 | Recommended | Heat resistant, sandable | Hard |
| ASA | 1.07 | 935 | 240–260 | 90–110 | Recommended | UV resistant, for outdoors | Hard |
| TPU | 1.21 | 826 | 210–235 | 30–60 | Not needed | Flexible, abrasion resistant | Medium–hard |
How density affects cost
A part's weight is its volume times density. The same part weighs differently in different materials:
Grams = volume (cm³) × density (g/cm³) × fill ratio
Example: a 20 cm³ fully solid part is 24.8 g in PLA and 20.8 g in ABS. At the same $20 per kg that is $0.50 in PLA versus $0.42 in ABS. Real filament prices differ, but a less dense material means "more print per kilo".
PLA: for beginners and display parts
The easiest material to print. Ideal for models, figures, prototypes and decorative parts at home. Its weak point is heat: it starts to soften at roughly 55–60 °C and can deform in a closed car in summer.
PETG: tough and an easy middle ground
Tougher and more flexible than PLA, and resistant to water and many chemicals. It can string a little and its higher bed temperature raises consumption slightly. A common choice for mechanical parts, covers and outdoor use.
ABS and ASA: heat and outdoors
ABS resists heat better (about 95–100 °C), can be sanded and painted, and its surface can be smoothed with acetone vapor. It tends to warp and needs an enclosure, and it gives off fumes so ventilation matters. ASA is similar but also resists UV, which is why it is preferred for outdoor parts.
TPU: flexible parts
Used for gaskets, bumpers and phone cases. It prints slowly, so for the same weight the print time, and therefore electricity cost, is higher.
Practical rules for cost
- Display and general-purpose parts: PLA.
- Mechanical load, moisture or outdoors: PETG or ASA.
- Parts that must withstand heat: ABS, ASA or PETG (depending on the temperature).
- Flexible parts: TPU.
- To compare costs with your own prices, use several filament profiles in the calculator.
Frequently asked questions
Which filament should a beginner start with?
PLA: it prints at low temperatures, needs no enclosure, does not warp and is the easiest material to tune. It is enough until you need a heat-resistant or flexible part.
Is PETG or ABS stronger?
Both are tougher than PLA against impact. ABS handles heat better but warps and needs an enclosure. PETG is easier to print and resists moisture and chemicals. For most uses PETG is a practical middle ground.
At the same price, which filament is cheaper per print?
At the same price per kg, the less dense material gives more volume. ABS and ASA give roughly 16–19% more volume per kg. In reality prices per kg differ, so calculate with your own prices.
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