Embark on your 3D printing journey with confidence by discovering the very best PLA 3D printers filament available today. This comprehensive guide cuts through the noise, offering in-depth reviews of top-performing PLA filaments that deliver exceptional print quality, ease of use, and incredible value. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting out, understanding the nuances of different PLA formulations can elevate your creations from good to truly outstanding, ensuring your projects shine with vibrant colors and impressive detail.
Navigating the vast landscape of 3D printer filament can be a daunting task, but our mission is to simplify your decision-making process. We’ve rigorously tested and analyzed a wide array of PLA options to bring you a curated selection that meets the highest standards for reliability and performance. From achieving flawless first layers to producing intricate geometries with stunning surface finishes, this buying guide will equip you with the knowledge to choose the perfect PLA filament to bring your most ambitious 3D printing ideas to life.
Before we get to our review of the best pla 3d printers filament, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
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Understanding PLA Filament for Your 3D Printer
PLA, or Polylactic Acid, stands as one of the most popular and accessible materials for 3D printing, making it a frequent topic for those seeking the best pla 3d printers filament. Derived from renewable resources like corn starch and sugarcane, PLA is a biodegradable thermoplastic polyester. This eco-friendly characteristic, combined with its ease of use, has propelled PLA to the forefront of Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) 3D printing.
One of PLA’s primary advantages is its low melting point and minimal warping. Unlike many other filaments, PLA prints at relatively low temperatures, reducing the risk of nozzle clogs and ensuring a more consistent extrusion process. This characteristic makes it an ideal choice for beginners and hobbyists who are still familiarizing themselves with the intricacies of 3D printing technology.
The resulting prints from PLA filament are known for their excellent detail and smooth surface finish. It offers a good balance between rigidity and flexibility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from decorative objects and prototypes to functional parts that don’t require extreme durability or heat resistance. The wide array of colors and finishes available further enhances its versatility.
While PLA is relatively easy to print, it’s important to note its limitations. It has a lower heat resistance compared to materials like ABS, meaning prints can deform if exposed to prolonged high temperatures. However, for most common indoor applications, PLA remains an outstanding and highly recommended filament choice.
5 Best Pla 3D Printers Filament
eSUN PLA+ Filament – 1.75mm, 1kg Spool, Silk Rainbow
eSUN PLA+ filament consistently delivers exceptional print quality, making it a go-to choice for both beginners and experienced makers. The PLA+ formulation offers improved strength and impact resistance compared to standard PLA, reducing the likelihood of brittle prints. The Silk Rainbow color is particularly stunning, producing a smooth, iridescent finish that shifts beautifully under different lighting conditions, perfect for decorative items, cosplay, and eye-catching prototypes.
The consistency of diameter and extrusion from this filament is a significant advantage. It feeds smoothly through the nozzle without clogs, leading to reliable and repeatable prints. The spool itself is well-packaged and easy to handle, and the adhesion to build plates, especially PEI sheets, is excellent. For anyone looking to elevate their PLA prints with a touch of visual flair and increased durability, this eSUN Silk Rainbow PLA+ is a highly recommended option.
Hatchbox PLA Filament – 1.75mm, 1kg Spool, True White
Hatchbox is a name synonymous with quality and reliability in the 3D printing filament market, and their True White PLA is no exception. This filament is known for its pristine white color, which is consistent throughout the spool and ideal for creating clean, professional-looking prints. Whether you’re printing functional parts, architectural models, or prototypes that require a neutral base for painting, this True White PLA provides a perfect canvas.
The printability of Hatchbox PLA is superb. It exhibits excellent layer adhesion, minimal warping, and a smooth surface finish straight off the build plate. The diameter accuracy is consistently within tight tolerances, ensuring a clog-free printing experience. For users seeking a dependable, high-quality white PLA that offers excellent value and predictable results, Hatchbox True White is an outstanding selection that rarely disappoints.
Overture PLA Filament – 1.75mm, 1kg Spool, Pink Purple Chameleon
Overture’s Pink Purple Chameleon PLA filament offers a truly captivating aesthetic, transforming prints with a dynamic color shift that transitions between vibrant pinks and deep purples. This dual-color effect is mesmerizing and adds a unique artistic element to any project, making it ideal for figurines, artistic creations, and anything that benefits from a touch of otherworldly charm. The color change is smooth and well-defined, offering a visually engaging experience.
Beyond its striking appearance, this Overture PLA filament performs admirably in terms of print quality. It extrudes consistently, resulting in clean layers and good adhesion to the print bed. The filament is strong enough for most common 3D printing applications, and the easy-to-manage spool ensures a hassle-free printing process. For creators looking to add a conversation-starting color to their repertoire without compromising on printability, Overture’s Pink Purple Chameleon PLA is a fantastic choice.
Amolen PLA Filament – 1.75mm, 1kg Spool, Wood Filled PLA
Amolen’s Wood Filled PLA filament is a unique material that allows you to achieve prints with a distinct wooden texture and appearance, opening up a world of creative possibilities. This filament incorporates fine wood particles, which not only give prints a natural, wood-like grain but also a subtle woody scent during printing. It’s perfect for crafting decorative items, custom furniture prototypes, small wooden models, and anything where a rustic, natural aesthetic is desired.
The printability of Amolen’s Wood Filled PLA is surprisingly good, though it requires a few considerations. A larger nozzle size (0.5mm or greater) is recommended to prevent clogs, and printing at slightly lower temperatures can improve results. Despite these minor adjustments, the filament extrudes smoothly, and the resulting wood-like texture is highly convincing. For makers who want to experiment with natural materials and create prints with a tactile, organic feel, this Amolen Wood Filled PLA is an innovative and rewarding filament to explore.
Proto-Pasta PLA Filament – 1.75mm, 1kg Spool, HTPLA – Matte Black Iron (Fe) – High Temp PLA
Proto-Pasta’s HTPLA Matte Black Iron filament is a premium option for those seeking enhanced material properties and a sophisticated aesthetic. This filament is infused with iron particles, giving prints a heavy, metallic feel and a unique matte black finish that closely resembles cast iron. The “High Temp” designation means it can be annealed after printing to achieve significantly higher heat deflection temperatures, making it suitable for functional parts exposed to elevated temperatures.
The print quality is exceptional, with excellent layer adhesion and minimal stringing. The iron infusion provides a satisfying heft to prints, and the matte black appearance is elegant and professional. While it requires careful handling due to its abrasive nature (a hardened steel nozzle is strongly recommended), the ability to anneal the prints for increased thermal resistance sets this filament apart. For engineers, industrial designers, or anyone needing robust parts with a premium metallic look and improved thermal performance, Proto-Pasta’s HTPLA Matte Black Iron is a top-tier choice.
Why You Need PLA 3D Printer Filament
PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is the lifeblood of your 3D printer. Without it, your machine is essentially a sophisticated paperweight. This versatile and biodegradable thermoplastic is the most popular material for hobbyists and professionals alike due to its ease of use, low toxicity, and wide range of applications. From creating prototypes and educational models to crafting decorative items and functional parts, PLA filament makes digital designs tangible.
The necessity of purchasing PLA filament stems from its consumable nature. Much like ink for an inkjet printer or toner for a laser printer, 3D printer filament is used up during the printing process. Each layer deposited by your 3D printer utilizes a small amount of filament, and as your creations grow, so does the demand for your chosen material. This means that to continue bringing your 3D printing ideas to life, a regular supply of filament is absolutely essential.
Furthermore, the quality of the filament directly impacts the quality of your prints. Using poor-quality filament can lead to issues such as inconsistent extrusion, weak layer adhesion, clogging of the print nozzle, and ultimately, failed prints. This is why investing in good quality filament is crucial for achieving successful and satisfying results. Finding the best PLA 3D printers filament can significantly enhance your 3D printing experience, producing smoother surfaces and more durable objects.
Beyond basic functionality, the availability of a wide array of PLA filament colors and types opens up a world of creative possibilities. Whether you need a specific color to match a design, a flexible PLA for a unique application, or even wood-filled or metal-infused PLA for aesthetic appeal, purchasing different filaments allows you to expand the capabilities and artistic expression of your 3D printing projects.
Choosing the Right PLA Filament: A Deep Dive
Selecting the ideal PLA filament goes beyond just picking a color. Several key characteristics dictate its performance and suitability for your projects. Understanding these nuances will help you avoid frustration and achieve superior print quality. Factors such as filament diameter consistency, temperature range, and extrusion flow rate are paramount.
Consistency in filament diameter is crucial. Even minor variations can lead to extruder jams or inconsistent layer adhesion, resulting in weakened prints. Reputable manufacturers invest in precise manufacturing processes to ensure their filaments adhere to tight tolerances. Similarly, the recommended printing temperature range provided by the manufacturer is not just a guideline; it’s a carefully calibrated parameter for optimal melting and bonding of the plastic.
Beyond diameter and temperature, consider the filament’s inherent properties. Some PLAs are formulated for enhanced toughness, while others offer increased flexibility or biodegradability. For intricate models, look for filaments known for their smooth extrusion and minimal stringing. Conversely, for functional parts, durability and impact resistance might be your primary concerns.
Troubleshooting Common PLA Printing Issues
Even with the best PLA filament, you might encounter occasional printing hiccups. Understanding common problems and their solutions is an essential skill for any 3D printing enthusiast. Most issues stem from incorrect printer settings, environmental factors, or minor filament inconsistencies.
Stringing, often described as fine threads of plastic between printed parts, is a frequent offender. This can usually be mitigated by fine-tuning retraction settings on your printer, increasing travel speed, or slightly lowering the printing temperature. Ensure your filament is also properly dried, as moisture absorption can exacerbate stringing.
Layer adhesion problems, where layers don’t bond well, can lead to weak prints that easily delaminate. This is often caused by printing too cool, insufficient extrusion, or printing too quickly for the material to properly melt and fuse. Conversely, warping, where the corners of your print lift off the build plate, can be a sign of printing too hot, poor bed adhesion, or drafts in the printing environment.
Advanced PLA Applications and Customization
While PLA is celebrated for its ease of use, its potential extends far beyond basic prototyping. With the right approach, you can achieve stunning results and even customize its properties for specialized applications. This involves delving into advanced slicer settings and exploring the diverse world of specialty PLA filaments.
Specialty PLAs offer a range of unique characteristics. You’ll find wood-filled PLAs that give prints a natural, wood-like texture and appearance, metal-filled PLAs that mimic the look and feel of metals, and even glow-in-the-dark or color-changing variants. These can elevate your prints from functional objects to artistic creations.
Furthermore, mastering advanced slicer settings allows for significant control over print quality and appearance. Experimenting with different layer heights, infill patterns, and print speeds can dramatically impact the strength, detail, and surface finish of your PLA prints. Some slicers even offer features like coasting and wiping, which can further reduce stringing and blobs.
The Environmental Impact and Future of PLA Filament
PLA (Polylactic Acid) has gained significant traction in the 3D printing community largely due to its perceived environmental friendliness. Derived from renewable resources like corn starch and sugarcane, it offers a more sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. However, a deeper understanding of its lifecycle is important.
While PLA is biodegradable, its decomposition process requires specific industrial composting conditions. In a typical landfill, it will still take a considerable amount of time to break down. Therefore, responsible disposal and recycling practices remain crucial for minimizing its environmental footprint. Seeking out industrial composting facilities or exploring local recycling programs are vital steps.
The future of PLA filament likely involves continued innovation in its production and applications. Researchers are exploring more efficient and sustainable sourcing methods for its raw materials and developing new PLA blends with enhanced properties like improved heat resistance and durability. As the 3D printing industry grows, so too will the demand for eco-conscious filament options, with PLA poised to remain a leading contender.
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide to PLA 3D Printer Filament
Choosing the right PLA filament is crucial for achieving successful and satisfying 3D prints. With a vast array of options available, from standard PLA to specialized blends, navigating the market can feel overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider, ensuring you select the best PLA 3D printers filament for your projects and elevate your 3D printing experience.
Quality and Purity of the Filament
The foundation of a good print lies in the quality and purity of the PLA filament itself. High-quality PLA is manufactured with minimal impurities, ensuring a consistent diameter and smooth extrusion. Impurities can lead to clogs in your nozzle, inconsistent layer adhesion, and ultimately, failed prints. Reputable manufacturers invest in stringent quality control processes to guarantee a pure and reliable product, resulting in cleaner prints and a longer lifespan for your 3D printer’s components.
When evaluating the quality, look for filaments that are consistently round with no visible defects. The color should be uniform throughout the spool. Furthermore, the chemical composition of the PLA should be consistent, as variations can affect its printing temperature, bed adhesion, and mechanical properties. Investing in well-known brands with a proven track record for quality assurance is often a wise decision, as they are more likely to deliver a product that meets high standards.
Diameter Consistency and Tolerance
The diameter of your PLA filament is a critical factor that directly impacts extrusion. Most 3D printers are calibrated for specific filament diameters, typically 1.75mm or 2.85mm. A filament with tight diameter tolerances will extrude more predictably, leading to more accurate and dimensionally stable prints. If the filament’s diameter varies significantly, your extruder might over- or under-extrude, causing issues like stringing, gaps in layers, or rough surfaces.
Manufacturers often specify the diameter tolerance of their filaments, usually expressed as a range (e.g., ±0.02mm). A smaller tolerance indicates greater consistency. It’s advisable to choose filaments with the tightest possible tolerances to minimize extrusion variability. You can also test the diameter of your filament at various points along its length using calipers to verify its consistency before committing to a large spool.
Brand Reputation and Customer Reviews
In the crowded world of 3D printing filament, brand reputation serves as a valuable indicator of reliability and performance. Established brands that have been in the industry for a while have often refined their manufacturing processes and gained valuable feedback from the 3D printing community. Their commitment to quality is usually reflected in consistent product performance and excellent customer support.
Before making a purchase, take the time to research brands and read customer reviews. Look for feedback on print quality, ease of printing, adhesion, and any common issues reported by users. Websites, forums, and social media groups dedicated to 3D printing are excellent resources for gathering this information. Brands with consistently positive reviews are more likely to provide a satisfactory printing experience.
Color and Finish Options
While functionality is paramount, the aesthetic appeal of your 3D prints can also be a significant consideration. PLA filaments come in an astonishing variety of colors, from vibrant primaries to subtle pastels, and even unique finishes like metallic, wood-fill, glow-in-the-dark, and marble. The specific color and finish you choose will depend on the intended application of your printed object.
When selecting a color, consider its visual impact and how it will appear under different lighting conditions. For functional parts, matte or neutral colors might be preferred, while for decorative items, vibrant or specialty finishes can add a unique touch. Some filaments also offer different finishes like silk, which provides a glossy, metallic sheen, or matte, which offers a more subdued, non-reflective surface. Experimenting with different colors and finishes can open up new creative possibilities for your prints.
Printing Temperature and Bed Adhesion
PLA is known for its ease of printing, but different formulations and brands can have slightly varying optimal printing temperatures and bed adhesion requirements. Understanding these parameters is essential for achieving successful prints without warping or delamination. Most manufacturers provide recommended nozzle and bed temperatures on the filament’s packaging or spool label.
It’s crucial to experiment with these recommended temperatures to find the sweet spot for your specific 3D printer and environment. A slight adjustment in nozzle temperature can significantly impact layer adhesion and surface finish. Similarly, proper bed adhesion is vital for preventing prints from detaching during the printing process. This can be achieved through various methods like using a heated bed, applying adhesion promoters, or selecting the appropriate build surface.
Strength, Durability, and Brittleness
While standard PLA is generally considered a rigid and somewhat brittle material, its mechanical properties can vary slightly depending on the specific formulation and additives used by the manufacturer. For prints that require some degree of impact resistance or flexibility, you might need to look beyond basic PLA. Some PLA blends incorporate other materials to enhance their toughness and reduce brittleness.
If your project demands higher strength or durability, consider PLA+ or PLA Pro filaments, which are engineered to be stronger and less prone to breaking than standard PLA. These filaments are ideal for functional parts that might experience stress or require more resilience. Always check the filament’s specifications for information on its tensile strength, impact resistance, and elongation at break to ensure it meets the demands of your intended application.
FAQs
What is PLA filament and why is it a popular choice for 3D printing?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane. Its popularity stems from its ease of use, affordability, and wide range of available colors and finishes. PLA requires lower printing temperatures compared to other filaments, making it forgiving for beginners and less likely to warp during the printing process.
The combination of its user-friendly nature, environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness makes PLA an excellent starting point for anyone venturing into 3D printing. It’s well-suited for a variety of applications, from prototyping and educational projects to decorative items and hobbyist creations.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing PLA filament?
When selecting PLA filament, consider the brand’s reputation for quality and consistency. Look for filaments with tight diameter tolerances, as variations can lead to inconsistent extrusion and print failures. The color and finish of the filament are also important, depending on your aesthetic preferences and the intended use of your printed objects.
Additionally, investigate the specific formulation of the PLA. Some brands offer enhanced PLA with properties like increased strength, flexibility, or UV resistance. Checking user reviews and filament testing websites can provide valuable insights into filament performance and help you make an informed decision.
Are there different types of PLA filament, and how do they differ?
While standard PLA is the most common, there are various specialized PLA formulations available. These can include PLA+ (enhanced PLA) which offers improved layer adhesion and impact resistance, and PLA Silk which provides a glossy, smooth finish resembling silk. You’ll also find wood-filled PLA for a natural wood-like appearance, metal-filled PLA for a metallic sheen, and even glow-in-the-dark or color-changing PLAs.
Each type of PLA has unique properties that can affect print settings and the final appearance of your prints. Understanding these differences will allow you to choose the best PLA for your specific project requirements and desired aesthetic outcome.
What are the typical printing temperatures and bed adhesion methods for PLA?
PLA generally prints well with a nozzle temperature ranging from 190°C to 220°C. The optimal temperature can vary slightly between brands and even specific filament batches, so it’s always recommended to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines. For bed adhesion, PLA doesn’t strictly require a heated bed, but a temperature of around 50°C to 60°C can significantly improve first-layer adhesion and prevent warping.
Common bed adhesion methods for PLA include using a PEI sheet, painter’s tape, or a glue stick. Many users find a PEI sheet provides excellent adhesion without needing additional substances. If using a glass bed, a thin layer of glue stick or hairspray can be effective. Ensuring your print bed is clean and level is crucial for successful PLA prints.
How does filament quality affect print quality with PLA?
The quality of your PLA filament has a direct and significant impact on the quality of your 3D prints. High-quality filament typically has consistent diameter, minimal impurities, and proper moisture control, all of which contribute to smoother extrusion, reduced stringing, and fewer layer adhesion issues.
Conversely, low-quality PLA can lead to a host of problems, including clogs, inconsistent extrusion, rough surface finishes, weak layer adhesion, and overall poor print detail. Investing in reputable brands and checking reviews can help you avoid these frustrating issues and achieve the best possible results from your 3D printer.
What are some common printing problems with PLA and how can they be resolved?
Stringing, where thin strands of filament are left between printed parts, is a common issue with PLA. This can often be resolved by adjusting retraction settings (increasing retraction distance and speed) and ensuring the filament is dry. Another frequent problem is poor layer adhesion, which can be caused by printing at too low a temperature or inadequate cooling.
Warping, though less common with PLA than with other filaments, can still occur. Ensuring good bed adhesion with the appropriate settings and materials, and printing in an environment with minimal drafts, can help prevent warping. If your prints appear rough or inconsistent, it might be an indication of filament quality issues or a need for printer calibration, such as PID tuning for your hotend.
What are the best brands of PLA filament for beginners and experienced users?
For beginners, brands like Hatchbox, Eryone, and Overture are consistently praised for their reliability, ease of use, and good value. These brands offer consistent quality and are readily available, making them excellent choices for those new to 3D printing. They generally perform well with default printer settings.
Experienced users might explore brands like Prusa Research (known for their high-quality filament that complements their printers), eSUN (offering a wide range of specialized PLAs), and MatterHackers (providing advanced filaments and excellent customer support). These brands often cater to users looking for specific properties, advanced materials, or the highest possible print quality.
Final Verdict
Navigating the world of 3D printing materials can be a daunting task, but by understanding the unique properties and applications of PLA, you’re well on your way to achieving exceptional results. Our comprehensive review of the best PLA 3D printers filament aims to empower you with the knowledge to make an informed decision, ensuring your projects benefit from the ease of use, vibrant color options, and eco-friendly nature that PLA offers. Whether you’re a hobbyist creating intricate models, an educator demonstrating scientific principles, or a designer prototyping functional parts, selecting the right PLA filament is paramount to translating your digital vision into tangible reality with precision and reliability.
Ultimately, the quest for the best PLA 3D printers filament is about finding a material that aligns with your specific needs, budget, and printing objectives. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different brands and formulations to discover your personal favorites. With the insights gained from our reviews and buying guide, you are now equipped to elevate your 3D printing endeavors, confidently choosing filaments that deliver outstanding quality, consistent performance, and a truly satisfying printing experience.