PVA vs PETG
Compare PVA and PETG filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PVA
BPolyvinyl Alcohol
Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing)
PETG
APolyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified
Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
Detailed Comparison
Property
PVA
PETG
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
Water-soluble supports
PETG
Nozzle Temp
180-220°C
215-270°C
Bed Temp
45-60°C
70-90°C
Enclosure
not needed
optional
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Moderate cooling; too much cooling can hurt layer adhesion
Moisture Sensitivity
extreme
moderate
Strengths Comparison
PVA Strengths
- Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing)
- Cleaner overhangs and internal channels
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
PVA Caveats
- Very moisture sensitive; quickly becomes unusable if left out
- Slower printing; can clog if wet or overheated
- Requires careful pairing (supports must adhere to the model material but still release/dissolve well)
PETG Caveats
- Overhangs/bridges sag; supports can be hard to remove
- Absorbs water fairly quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVA or PETG better for 3D printing?
PETG is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to PVA (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PVA is best for Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing), while PETG is best for Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use.
What are the temperature differences between PVA and PETG?
PVA prints at 180-220°C nozzle / 45-60°C bed. PETG prints at 215-270°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed.
Do PVA and PETG need an enclosure?
PVA: not needed. PETG: optional.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PVA or PETG?
Both PVA and PETG are beginner-friendly options.