Polycarbonate vs PETG
Compare Polycarbonate and PETG filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Polycarbonate
BPC
Very tough and stiff; doesn't shatter like PLA
PETG
APolyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified
Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
Detailed Comparison
Property
Polycarbonate
PETG
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
PC
PETG
Nozzle Temp
260-310°C
215-270°C
Bed Temp
90-120°C
70-90°C
Enclosure
required
optional
Cooling
Low cooling
Moderate cooling; too much cooling can hurt layer adhesion
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Polycarbonate Strengths
- Very tough and stiff; doesn't shatter like PLA
- High heat resistance (~150C softening region)
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
Polycarbonate Caveats
- Often overkill and high effort for typical use
PETG Caveats
- Overhangs/bridges sag; supports can be hard to remove
- Absorbs water fairly quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Polycarbonate or PETG better for 3D printing?
PETG is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Polycarbonate (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Polycarbonate is best for Very tough and stiff; doesn't shatter like PLA, while PETG is best for Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use.
What are the temperature differences between Polycarbonate and PETG?
Polycarbonate prints at 260-310°C nozzle / 90-120°C bed. PETG prints at 215-270°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed.
Do Polycarbonate and PETG need an enclosure?
Polycarbonate: required. PETG: optional.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Polycarbonate or PETG?
PETG is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.