Choosing the right filament is crucial for achieving the best results in 3D printing. Here are the top 10 3D printing filaments in 2024, taking into account material properties, ease of use, and application suitability.
1. Polylactic Acid (PLA)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 190-220°C
- Pros: Easy to print, biodegradable, low warping.
- Cons: Lower strength and heat resistance.
- Best For: Beginners, prototypes, decorative items.
Top Brand: Hatchbox PLA – Known for consistent quality and color variety.
2. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 220-250°C
- Pros: Strong, durable, high heat resistance.
- Cons: High warping, needs a heated bed, emits fumes.
- Best For: Functional parts, enclosures, automotive parts.
Top Brand: eSun ABS+ – Enhanced version with lower warping and better printability.
3. Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 220-250°C
- Pros: Strong, flexible, chemical resistant, low warping.
- Cons: Can string, requires fine-tuning.
- Best For: Functional parts, mechanical components, food containers.
Top Brand: Prusament PETG – High-quality, consistent, and reliable performance.
4. Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 220-250°C
- Pros: Flexible, strong, abrasion-resistant.
- Cons: Difficult to print, requires slow speeds.
- Best For: Flexible parts, phone cases, gaskets.
Top Brand: NinjaTek NinjaFlex – Known for excellent flexibility and durability.
5. Nylon (Polyamide)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 240-260°C
- Pros: Strong, wear-resistant, flexible.
- Cons: Hygroscopic, requires high print temperatures.
- Best For: Functional parts, gears, tool components.
Top Brand: Taulman3D Nylon 645 – Renowned for its strength and versatility.
6. Polycarbonate (PC)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 260-310°C
- Pros: Extremely strong, heat-resistant, transparent.
- Cons: Difficult to print, high warping, requires high temperatures.
- Best For: Mechanical parts, high-strength components, clear prints.
Top Brand: Polymaker PC-Max – Offers excellent strength and printability.
7. Wood-Filled PLA
Features:
- Print Temperature: 190-220°C
- Pros: Aesthetic wood-like finish, easy to print.
- Cons: Brittle, can clog nozzles.
- Best For: Decorative items, artistic projects.
Top Brand: ColorFabb WoodFill – Popular for its realistic wood appearance and easy printability.
8. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Filament
Features:
- Print Temperature: 230-250°C
- Pros: High strength, stiffness, lightweight.
- Cons: Abrasive, requires hardened nozzle.
- Best For: Structural parts, drones, RC cars.
Top Brand: Proto-pasta Carbon Fiber PLA – Excellent strength and ease of use.
9. Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 190-220°C
- Pros: Water-soluble, great for supports.
- Cons: Hygroscopic, can be difficult to store.
- Best For: Support material in dual extrusion printers.
Top Brand: Ultimaker PVA – Reliable and consistent water-soluble filament.
10. High Impact Polystyrene (HIPS)
Features:
- Print Temperature: 230-240°C
- Pros: Easy to print, dissolvable in Limonene, good for supports.
- Cons: Emits fumes, requires good ventilation.
- Best For: Support material, especially with ABS.
Top Brand: Gizmo Dorks HIPS – Known for its reliability and ease of dissolution in Limonene.
Conclusion
These filaments represent the best options for various applications in 2024. When selecting a filament, consider your specific project needs, printer compatibility, and the material properties required. These top brands offer high-quality filaments that ensure reliable and excellent print results.