Matte PLA vs ASA
Compare Matte PLA and ASA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Matte PLA
BMatte PLA composite
Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Property
Matte PLA
ASA
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
PLA
ASA
Nozzle Temp
190-220°C
220-275°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
90-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
recommended
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Matte PLA Strengths
- Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA
- More impact-tolerant than many PLAs
ASA Strengths
- Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
- Less warping than ABS; low viscosity enables very high speed printing
- High heat tolerance (~boiling water range)
Considerations
Matte PLA Caveats
- Absorbs humidity faster
- More likely to jam/grind
- Semi-flexible (not ideal for many rigid applications)
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matte PLA or ASA better for 3D printing?
ASA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Matte PLA (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Matte PLA is best for Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA, while ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface.
What are the temperature differences between Matte PLA and ASA?
Matte PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed.
Do Matte PLA and ASA need an enclosure?
Matte PLA: not needed. ASA: recommended.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Matte PLA or ASA?
Matte PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.