PLA vs TPU: Rigid Parts or Rubber Like Ones
These two do different jobs. PLA makes rigid parts and is the easiest filament to print. TPU makes flexible, rubber like parts such as phone cases, gaskets, bumpers and feet. Choose by whether the part needs to bend, then expect TPU to print slower and need a little more setup.
PLA vs TPU Prices Right Now
PLA
TPU
PLA currently averages 22% less per kg than TPU.
PLA and TPU Side by Side
| Property | PLA | TPU |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 190-220°C | 210-230°C |
| Bed temperature | 40-60°C | 30-60°C |
| Enclosure | Not needed | Not needed |
| Drying | 50-55°C, 4-8h | 65-75°C, 8-10h |
| Heat resistance | ~55°C | varies by grade |
| Difficulty | Easy | Intermediate |
| Best for | everyday prototypes, models, and indoor parts that won't face heat or heavy stress | flexible, rubber-like parts such as phone cases, gaskets, and vibration dampers |
Settings are starting points. The full settings cheat sheet covers every material.
When to Choose PLA
PLA is for rigid parts: models, prototypes, brackets and decor. It prints fast, holds fine detail and works on any printer.
When to Choose TPU
TPU is flexible and very tough. It stretches, squashes and springs back, which makes it the go to for phone cases, gaskets, vibration dampers, bumpers, grips and wheels.
Most common TPU is around 95A shore hardness, a firm rubber; softer grades bend more but are harder to print.
Printing Differences
TPU prints best slowly, often at a fraction of PLA speeds, and works best on a direct drive extruder, since the soft filament can buckle in a long Bowden tube. It also strings and absorbs moisture, so dry it before printing.
PLA needs none of that care.
Cost Differences
TPU costs noticeably more per kilogram than PLA. The live prices on this page show where the two stand right now.
Cheapest PLA and TPU Spools
PLA vs TPU FAQ
Can any printer print TPU?
Most can print 95A TPU slowly. Direct drive extruders handle it much better than Bowden setups, and softer TPU grades usually need direct drive.
Is TPU stronger than PLA?
TPU is far tougher and almost impossible to snap, but it is flexible, so it cannot replace PLA where a part must stay rigid.
Why does my TPU string so much?
Usually moisture or too much heat. Dry the spool, lower the temperature a little and keep retraction short.