Matte PLA vs TPU
Compare Matte PLA and TPU 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
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
Matte PLA
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier S
Family
PLA
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
190-220°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
high
high
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
TPU Strengths
- Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
Matte PLA Caveats
- Absorbs humidity faster
- More likely to jam/grind
- Semi-flexible (not ideal for many rigid applications)
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Matte PLA or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) 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 TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between Matte PLA and TPU?
Matte PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do Matte PLA and TPU need an enclosure?
Matte PLA: not needed. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Matte PLA or TPU?
Both Matte PLA and TPU are beginner-friendly options.