Carbon Fiber PLA vs PETG
Compare Carbon Fiber PLA and PETG filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Carbon Fiber PLA
SPLA-CF
Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage
PETG
APolyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified
Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
Detailed Comparison
Property
Carbon Fiber PLA
PETG
Tier Rating
Tier S
Tier A
Family
PLA
PETG
Nozzle Temp
200-230°C
215-270°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
70-90°C
Enclosure
not needed
optional
Cooling
High cooling beneficial
Moderate cooling; too much cooling can hurt layer adhesion
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Carbon Fiber PLA Strengths
- Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage
- Matte finish, high dimensional accuracy, stiffer (but more brittle)
- Excellent-looking and accurate prints
PETG Strengths
- Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
- Good clarity and low friction among easy-to-print materials
Considerations
Carbon Fiber PLA Caveats
- More brittle than PLA
- Typically limited color selection (often black)
PETG Caveats
- Overhangs/bridges sag; supports can be hard to remove
- Absorbs water fairly quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carbon Fiber PLA or PETG better for 3D printing?
Carbon Fiber PLA is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PETG (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Carbon Fiber PLA is best for Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage, while PETG is best for Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use.
What are the temperature differences between Carbon Fiber PLA and PETG?
Carbon Fiber PLA prints at 200-230°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. PETG prints at 215-270°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed.
Do Carbon Fiber PLA and PETG need an enclosure?
Carbon Fiber PLA: not needed. PETG: optional.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Carbon Fiber PLA or PETG?
Both Carbon Fiber PLA and PETG are beginner-friendly options.