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What differs among PLA, ABS, PETG, and PC? Which materials suit prototypes vs functional parts? How to choose resin vs filament—all in one place.

PLA / ABS / PETG / PC GuidePrototype Material GuideMaterial Safety Data

Key materials by process

FDM

Strong, practical parts

PLAABSPETGPCTPU
SLA

Ultra-fine, smooth surfaces

StandardToughClearFlexible
DLP

Complex fine detail

StandardToughClearFlexible

Popular Guide

Which is right: PLA, ABS, PETG, or PC?

The four FDM filaments compared most often—strength, heat resistance, post-processing, and recommended uses.

Read the comparison guide Materials for housings & cases Materials for heat- & impact-resistant parts

FDM materials (filament)

PLA

Polylactic acid (PLA)

FDM Logic

Key properties

  • Plant-based (corn, sugarcane); biodegradable and eco-friendly
  • Low shrink/warp—easy to print, beginner-friendly
  • Lightweight with a clean surface finish
  • Lower heat and impact resistance than ABS or PETG

Typical applications

  • Prototypes & displays
  • Education & graduation projects
  • Packaging
  • Low-load parts & interiors

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene

FDM Logic

Key properties

  • Excellent impact, durability, and heat resistance
  • Great for sanding, painting, bonding, and welding
  • Watch fumes and shrink while printing; ventilation needed

Typical applications

  • Cases & housings
  • Automotive & appliance parts
  • Assembly & functional tests
  • Tooling & jigs

PETG

Glycol-modified PET thermoplastic with improved durability, clarity, and processability

FDM Logic

Key properties

  • Combines PLA and ABS strengths—stiffness, impact, heat
  • Clear / translucent grades available
  • Food- and medical-contact grades exist
  • Moisture management required

Typical applications

  • Functional parts & protective cases
  • Medical / food-related structures
  • Outdoor & weather-resistant uses
  • Clear covers & windows

PC

Polycarbonate

FDM Logic

Key properties

  • Top-tier impact resistance and stiffness among FDM materials
  • Heat deflection around 110–130°C—higher than ABS
  • Clear grades available; good dimensional stability
  • High print temperature and shrinkage—needs tuned equipment and dry filament

Typical applications

  • Mechanical & functional parts in hot environments
  • Electrical / electronic housings
  • Clear covers & lighting parts
  • Jigs & fixtures

TPU

Thermoplastic polyurethane

FDM Logic

Key properties

  • Rubber-like flex and elasticity (Shore A tens to ~90)
  • Abrasion-, oil-resistant; absorbs impact
  • Needs careful feed and print settings

Typical applications

  • Grips, bushings, gaskets
  • Seals & tubing
  • Wearables & protectors
  • Shock-absorbing pads

Popular Guide

How do Standard, Tough, Clear, and Flexible resins differ?

Which resin fits visual prototypes, functional tests, clear parts, or flexible parts—organized by search-style questions.

Read the resin comparison guide Materials for transparent parts Materials for precision models & figurines

Resin materials (SLA · DLP)

Standard

Standard resin

SLADLP

Key properties

  • Smooth surface and excellent detail
  • Wide color range; relatively economical
  • Lower impact/strength than Tough or engineering grades

Typical applications

  • Visual prototypes & design validation
  • Jewelry & fashion accessories
  • Masters for silicone molds
  • Dioramas & figurines

Tough

Tough resin

SLADLP

Key properties

  • High impact and tensile strength for functional tests
  • Suited to screws, fastening, and assembly
  • Higher cost and density than Standard

Typical applications

  • Fit & function testing
  • Cases & housings
  • Tooling & jigs
  • Small-run functional parts

Clear

Clear resin

SLADLP

Key properties

  • High transparency and visibility
  • Near glass-like clarity after polish/coat
  • May discolor with UV or heat

Typical applications

  • Light covers & lens housings
  • Glass / window substitutes
  • Inspection & observation windows
  • Medical & lab equipment

Flexible

Flexible resin

SLADLP

Key properties

  • Rubber-like toughness and deformation
  • Good for snaps, grips, and press-fits
  • Hardness varies with cure and storage

Typical applications

  • Silicone mold / press pads
  • Grips & case inserts
  • Wearables & protectors
  • Sealing & cushioning

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