Silk PLA vs TPU
Compare Silk PLA and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Silk PLA
BShiny PLA
Very shiny for show pieces
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
Silk 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
moderate
high
Strengths Comparison
Silk PLA Strengths
- Very shiny for show pieces
- Supports can be easier to remove
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
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
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 Silk PLA or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) 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 TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between Silk PLA and TPU?
Silk PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do Silk PLA and TPU need an enclosure?
Silk PLA: not needed. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Silk PLA or TPU?
Both Silk PLA and TPU are beginner-friendly options.