Matte PLA vs PLA
Compare Matte PLA and PLA 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
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
Matte PLA
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
PLA
PLA
Nozzle Temp
190-220°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
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
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
Matte PLA Caveats
- Absorbs humidity faster
- More likely to jam/grind
- Semi-flexible (not ideal for many rigid applications)
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 Matte PLA or PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA 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 PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between Matte PLA and PLA?
Matte PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do Matte PLA and PLA need an enclosure?
Matte PLA: not needed. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Matte PLA or PLA?
Both Matte PLA and PLA are beginner-friendly options.