Choosing the Right Material

Different projects require different materials. This guide helps you choose the best 3D printing material based on your requirements.

Material	Strength	Heat	Flexibility	Detail	Cost
PLA	★★★	★★	★	★★★★	$
ABS	★★★★	★★★★	★★	★★★	$$
PETG	★★★★	★★★	★★★	★★★	$$
TPU	★★★	★★★	★★★★★	★★	$$$
Resin	★★	★★	★	★★★★★	$$$

When to Use Each Material

Prototypes, decorative items, models.

Functional parts, automotive, enclosures.

Food containers, outdoor use, chemical resistance.

Phone cases, gaskets, flexible parts.

Miniatures, jewelry, dental, fine detail.

ABS and PETG are similar in strength. PETG has better layer adhesion. For impacts, TPU absorbs energy best.

PLA is the most affordable option. It is great for prototypes where properties arent critical.

Resin printing achieves the finest detail (25-50 microns vs 100-200 microns for FDM).