PLA (polylactic acid) filament is a compostable thermoplastic that does not emit harmful fumes when heated. It has a lower melting point than ABS and does not require a heated build platform for printing. PLA is less flexible, more brittle, and less prone to warping than ABS. It is suitable for high-speed printing and is used for building consumer products or toys.

TPE/TPU (thermoplastic elastomer/urethane) filament is more elastic than ABS, PLA, PETG, and nylon filaments and is used for creating flexible objects in a 3D printer. Objects made with TPE can typically be stretched to twice their original length without permanent deformation. Also known as thermoplastic rubber, TPE should be printed at slow speeds to prevent the material from binding in the extruder. TPE filament is used to make household appliances, automotive parts, kid’s toys, medical supplies, weather seals, electrical insulation, and shoe soles.

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) filament resists impacts, has moderate flexibility, and is stronger than PLA filament. It has a high melting point and requires a heated build platform to prevent uneven shrinkage, layer distortion, or warping. ABS filament is petroleum-based and emits toxic fumes when heated. It is used for building moving parts, automotive components, and electronic housings.

Nylon filament (also called polyamide filament) is a flexible, lightweight, and wear-resistant material that is stronger and less brittle than ABS and PLA filament. Nylon filament requires a heated build platform for printing and emits toxic fumes when heated. It is used for creating various consumer products, tools, mechanical components, machine parts, structural parts, and containers.

PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) filament does not emit harmful odors when heated for printing and is completely recyclable. It is more wear-resistant and flexible than PLA and easier to print than ABS. It is also unlikely to warp during printing. PETG filament requires a heated build platform for printing and is used to create objects such as protective parts, mechanical components, and food containers.

TPU (thermoplastic urethane) filament is more elastic than ABS, PLA, PETG, and nylon filaments and is used for creating flexible objects in a 3D printer.

Silk 3D filament is strong, stiff, and accurate. It is used with CR series FDM 3D printers.