Wood PLA vs ASA
Compare Wood PLA and ASA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Wood PLA
BPLA + sawdust
Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Property
Wood PLA
ASA
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
PLA
ASA
Nozzle Temp
180-220°C
220-275°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
90-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
recommended
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Moisture Sensitivity
high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Wood PLA Strengths
- Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips
- Pleasant tactile 'hardwood-like' feel; varnish can help
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
Wood PLA Caveats
- Prints inconsistently (spurts/sputters), especially when humid
- Absorbs humidity easily
- Weaker than PLA
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wood PLA or ASA better for 3D printing?
ASA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Wood PLA (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Wood PLA is best for Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips, while ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface.
What are the temperature differences between Wood PLA and ASA?
Wood PLA prints at 180-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed.
Do Wood PLA and ASA need an enclosure?
Wood PLA: not needed. ASA: recommended.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Wood PLA or ASA?
Wood PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.