Soft TPU vs ASA
Compare Soft TPU and ASA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Soft TPU
CLow durometer TPU (~80A)
Very flexible
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Property
Soft TPU
ASA
Tier Rating
Tier C
Tier A
Family
Flexible
ASA
Nozzle Temp
200-220°C
220-275°C
Bed Temp
30-50°C
90-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
recommended
Cooling
Low cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Soft TPU Strengths
- Very flexible
ASA Strengths
- Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
- Less warping than ABS; low viscosity enables very high speed printing
- High heat tolerance (~boiling water range)
Considerations
Soft TPU Caveats
- Can tangle around drive gear
- Uncomfortable for wearables (doesn't breathe; gets sweaty)
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Soft TPU or ASA better for 3D printing?
ASA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Soft TPU (Tier C). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Soft TPU is best for Very flexible, while ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface.
What are the temperature differences between Soft TPU and ASA?
Soft TPU prints at 200-220°C nozzle / 30-50°C bed. ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed.
Do Soft TPU and ASA need an enclosure?
Soft TPU: not needed. ASA: recommended.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Soft TPU or ASA?
Soft TPU is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.