Whether you’re brand new to 3D printing or already have a few projects under your belt, choosing the right filament can feel a bit confusing. From beginner-friendly options to more advanced materials, each one behaves differently and comes with a set of challenges. Knowing what to expect before you start can save you time, reduce failed prints, and help you get better results overall.

Why Is It Called a Filament?

Have you ever wondered why it’s called “filament” in the 3D printing world? The word simply means “thread” or “fine strand,” and that’s exactly what the material looks like, a thin, continuous string of printing material neatly wound onto a spool.

Filament Types

ABS

One of the original 3D printing filaments and still a favourite among experienced makers is the impact-resistant filament ABS. It stands out for its excellent strength and impressive heat resistance, making it suitable for functional parts that might be exposed to warmer temperatures. It’s tough, durable, and can handle more mechanical stress than PLA or PETG. You can easily smooth ABS filaments with acetone for a professional-looking finish, and they dissolve well in acetone if you need to glue or post-process parts. 

However, they do come with a few challenges. They have a noticeable smell while printing, tend to warp if not printed in a heated enclosure, and work best for those with prior experience. Despite these quirks, the ABS filament remains popular for printing detailed, large objects, automotive parts, and items that need real-world durability.

PLA

This is the go-to starter option for most beginners, and for good reason. Made from corn starch, it’s biodegradable and prints beautifully with minimal fuss. It delivers solid mechanical properties, works for both small, detailed models and larger prints, and comes in an array of colours. The downside? It doesn’t handle heat or direct sunlight very well, so it’s not the best pick for outdoor projects.

PLA+

Think of this as an upgraded version of regular PLA. It prints at a slightly lower temperature (around 195°C), which makes it excellent for bridging and tricky overhangs. It’s more flexible when stressed, flows better, and is more forgiving if your cooling isn’t perfect. Many people also love the smooth matte finish it gives. If you use 3D pens, this is a strong contender too. There are even recycled versions available now.

PETG

A real all-rounder that many printers eventually fall in love with. It’s basically a modified version of the plastic used in water bottles, but much less brittle and easier to work with. PETG offers good toughness, decent heat resistance, and prints large objects reliably. It’s often recommended for beginners who want something stronger than PLA without jumping into the headaches of ABS.

ASA

This option is similar in strength and toughness to the filament ABS. It’s also an outstanding choice for outdoor projects, automotive parts, and functional prototypes that will see sunlight or rain. It’s dimensionally stable and easy to post-process with sandpaper or acetone.

ABS-T

A tougher, enhanced version of the ABS 3D filament with added MMA for extra strength and shine. It’s great for smaller, high-performance parts, but like standard ABS, it benefits from a closed printing chamber and is generally better suited to more experienced users.

Key Things to Consider When Buying

When you’re picking out a new spool of ABS filament, there are a few important things to keep in mind, so it works well with your printer and your project. First, check the diameter. Most printers use either 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm, so make sure you get the right size. 

You’ll also want to pay attention to the recommended nozzle temperature, bed temperature, and how much the material shrinks as it cools. Some filaments are more forgiving, while others (like ABS) can be trickier and may need an enclosed printer to prevent cracking or warping. Once you understand what your printer can handle and what your print needs, choosing the right filament becomes much easier.

Another thing many new 3D printer owners don’t think about is the smell. While some materials are almost odourless, others can get unpleasant when heated up. Materials like ABS, ABS-T, PC/ABS, PaJet, and most resins often give off a strong, chemical-like smell during printing. On the other hand, everyday materials such as standard PLA and PETG are usually much milder and rarely cause any issues.

If you’re planning to print with these stronger-smelling materials, ventilation is crucial. Always run your printer in a well-ventilated room and avoid staying right next to it for long periods while it’s operating. It’s also a smart idea to keep food and drinks far away from your printing area, as the last thing you want is tiny particles or fumes landing on your snacks.