TPE vs PLA
Compare TPE and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
TPE
FGeneric TPE filament
Versatile 3D printing filament
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
TPE
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier F
Tier A
Family
Flexible
PLA
Nozzle Temp
200-230°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
30-50°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
TPE Strengths
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
TPE Caveats
- Drive gears can squash it; hard to dial extrusion
- Print quality tends to be poor/runny
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 TPE or PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to TPE (Tier F). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: TPE is best for various applications, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between TPE and PLA?
TPE prints at 200-230°C nozzle / 30-50°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do TPE and PLA need an enclosure?
TPE: not needed. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: TPE or PLA?
Both TPE and PLA are beginner-friendly options.