Silk PLA vs PLA
Compare Silk PLA and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Silk PLA
BShiny PLA
Very shiny for show pieces
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
Silk 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
moderate
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Silk PLA Strengths
- Very shiny for show pieces
- Supports can be easier to remove
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
Silk PLA Caveats
- Weaker than PLA
- Can puff/popcorn and jam (especially with hot-air intake or multi-material single-nozzle)
- Can 'trash' AMS/MMU
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 Silk PLA or PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Silk PLA (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Silk PLA is best for Very shiny for show pieces, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between Silk PLA and PLA?
Silk PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do Silk PLA and PLA need an enclosure?
Silk PLA: not needed. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Silk PLA or PLA?
Both Silk PLA and PLA are beginner-friendly options.