Soft TPU vs PLA
Compare Soft TPU and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Soft TPU
CLow durometer TPU (~80A)
Very flexible
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
Soft TPU
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier C
Tier A
Family
Flexible
PLA
Nozzle Temp
200-220°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
30-50°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Low cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Soft TPU Strengths
- Very flexible
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
Soft TPU Caveats
- Can tangle around drive gear
- Uncomfortable for wearables (doesn't breathe; gets sweaty)
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 Soft TPU or PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA 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 PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between Soft TPU and PLA?
Soft TPU prints at 200-220°C nozzle / 30-50°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do Soft TPU and PLA need an enclosure?
Soft TPU: not needed. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Soft TPU or PLA?
Both Soft TPU and PLA are beginner-friendly options.