TPU vs ASA
Compare TPU and ASA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Property
TPU
ASA
Tier Rating
Tier S
Tier A
Family
Flexible
ASA
Nozzle Temp
200-240°C
220-275°C
Bed Temp
30-60°C
90-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
recommended
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
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)
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
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is TPU or ASA better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to ASA (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible, while ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface.
What are the temperature differences between TPU and ASA?
TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed. ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed.
Do TPU and ASA need an enclosure?
TPU: not needed. ASA: recommended.
Which is more beginner-friendly: TPU or ASA?
TPU is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.