What is the most used filament in 3D printing?
08 Aug 2025
What is the most used filament in 3D printing?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is by far the most widely used 3D printing filament, especially among hobbyists, educators, and beginners.
Why PLA Dominates the Market
1. Beginner-Friendly
- Prints at relatively low temperatures (190-220°C)
- No heated bed required (though recommended)
- Minimal warping and shrinkage
- Forgiving of printing mistakes
2. Safety and Convenience
- Produces minimal odor during printing
- Non-toxic and food-safe variants available
- Can be printed in enclosed or open spaces
- No need for special ventilation
3. Environmental Appeal
- Made from renewable resources (corn starch, sugarcane)
- Biodegradable under industrial composting conditions
- Appeals to environmentally conscious users
4. Versatility
- Available in countless colors and specialty variants
- Good surface finish and detail reproduction
- Easy to post-process (sand, paint, glue)
- Wide compatibility with most FDM printers
Market Share Considerations
While exact market share data varies, industry estimates suggest:
PLA's Limitations
Despite its popularity, PLA has drawbacks:
- Lower heat resistance (starts softening around 60°C/140°F)
- More brittle than ABS or PETG
- Not suitable for automotive or high-temperature applications
- Can degrade in direct sunlight over time
The Professional Perspective
While PLA dominates consumer and educational markets, professional and industrial applications often favor:
- ABS for automotive and electronic housings
- PETG for medical and food applications
- Specialty materials for specific engineering requirements
PLA's combination of ease of use, safety, environmental friendliness, and versatility makes it the go-to choice for the majority of 3D printing applications, cementing its position as the most used filament in the 3D printing world.
