Carbon Fiber PETG vs PLA
Compare Carbon Fiber PETG and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Carbon Fiber PETG
SPETG-CF
Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
Carbon Fiber PETG
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier S
Tier A
Family
PETG
PLA
Nozzle Temp
230-260°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
70-90°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
optional
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Carbon Fiber PETG Strengths
- Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG
- Stiffer than PETG; looks great (glossy walls)
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
Carbon Fiber PETG Caveats
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carbon Fiber PETG or PLA better for 3D printing?
Carbon Fiber PETG is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PLA (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Carbon Fiber PETG is best for Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between Carbon Fiber PETG and PLA?
Carbon Fiber PETG prints at 230-260°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do Carbon Fiber PETG and PLA need an enclosure?
Carbon Fiber PETG: optional. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Carbon Fiber PETG or PLA?
Both Carbon Fiber PETG and PLA are beginner-friendly options.