Battle of the Filaments: A Comparative Analysis of Popular PLA Brands

Published on 21 February 2024 at 21:21
Elegoo Filament Bundle

Are you ready to dive into the world of 3D printing filaments? Among the vast array of options available, PLA (Polylactic Acid) remains one of the most popular choices for 3D printing enthusiasts.

But with so many brands claiming to offer the best PLA filament, how do you know which one to choose?

Fear not! In this post, we'll conduct a thorough comparison of some of the most prominent PLA filament brands on the market, providing you with valuable insights to help you make an informed decision for your next printing project.

1. Hatchbox PLA

  • Price: $20 - $30 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Extensive range of vibrant colors
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.03mm
  • Printing Temperature: 180°C - 220°C
  • Bed Temperature: 25°C - 60°C

Hatchbox is renowned for its consistent quality and reliability. With a wide selection of colors and a reasonable price point, it's a favorite among many 3D printing enthusiasts.

2. Overture PLA

  • Price: $20 - $25 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Rich assortment of colors
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.05mm
  • Printing Temperature: 190°C - 220°C
  • Bed Temperature: 25°C - 60°C

Overture PLA filament offers excellent printability and is known for its low odor during printing. It's a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

3. eSUN PLA+

  • Price: $25 - $35 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Limited but includes popular basic colors
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.02mm
  • Printing Temperature: 205°C - 225°C
  • Bed Temperature: 60°C - 80°C

eSUN PLA+ filament is revered for its enhanced strength and durability compared to standard PLA. It's a favorite for functional prints that require extra toughness.

4. AmazonBasics PLA

  • Price: $15 - $20 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Moderate selection of colors
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.05mm
  • Printing Temperature: 190°C - 220°C
  • Bed Temperature: 25°C - 60°C

AmazonBasics offers PLA filament at an unbeatable price point, making it an attractive option for beginners and budget-conscious makers. While it may not have the widest color range, it provides reliable performance for everyday printing needs.

5. SUNLU PLA

  • Price: $20 - $25 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Diverse range of colors and specialty filaments
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.02mm
  • Printing Temperature: 190°C - 220°C
  • Bed Temperature: 60°C - 70°C

SUNLU PLA filament is highly regarded for its consistency and precision. With a plethora of color options and specialty filaments like silk PLA, it caters to a wide range of creative projects.

 

6. ELEGOO PLA

  • Price: $13 - $20 per kilogram
  • Color Variety: Diverse range of colors and specialty filaments
  • Diameter: 1.75mm
  • Tolerance: +/- 0.02mm
  • Printing Temperature: 190°C - 220°C
  • Bed Temperature: 45°C - 60°C

Conclusion:

When it comes to choosing the right PLA filament for your 3D printing needs, it ultimately boils down to your specific requirements and budget. Whether you prioritize color variety, print quality, or affordability, there's a PLA filament brand out there to suit your needs. Experimenting with different brands can also be a fun way to discover which one works best for your unique projects. So go ahead, unleash your creativity, and start printing!