Choosing between pla vs pla+ is one of the most common decisions facing 3D printing users. Both materials offer excellent print quality, low odor, and compatibility with nearly all desktop FDM printers. Yet the wrong choice can result in parts that fail prematurely or cost more than necessary. This guide walks through the key decision factors so you can confidently select the right filament for every project.
PLA vs PLA+: At a Glance
| Factor | Standard PLA | PLA+ |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Printing | Excellent, very forgiving | Very good, requires minor tuning |
| Cost per kg | $15-25 | $20-35 |
| Strength | Adequate for static loads | Higher tensile and flexural strength |
| Toughness | Brittle, shatters on impact | Ductile, absorbs impact well |
| Finition de la surface | Matte to semi-gloss | Semi-gloss to glossy |
| Options de couleur | Extensive range available | Good but slightly fewer options |
| Heat Resistance | Low, deforms above 55°C | Slightly better, up to 60°C |
PLA vs PLA+ by Use Case
For Beginners Learning 3D Printing
Standard PLA wins for learners. Its forgiving temperature range and low stringing tendency mean fewer failed prints and less frustration. New users should master bed leveling, temperature control, and slicer settings on standard PLA before upgrading. The material cost savings during the learning phase, when print failures are common, are significant.
For Functional Prototypes and Mechanical Parts
PLA+ is the clear winner here. Functional prototypes need to survive handling, assembly, and sometimes modest load testing. PLA+ can withstand drops, clips, and snap-fit assembly that would cause standard PLA to crack. The improved layer adhesion also means threaded inserts and self-tapping screws hold more securely in PLA+ parts.
For Production Tools and Jigs
Manufacturing jigs, assembly fixtures, and alignment tools benefit from PLA+ durability. These parts experience repeated use and occasional impacts, and replacing a broken fixture can halt production. PLA+ typically lasts 3-5 times longer than standard PLA in these applications.
For Decorative and Display Models
Standard PLA is the better choice for shelf pieces, architectural models, and decorative objects. These parts experience no mechanical stress, so the extra toughness of PLA+ adds cost without benefit. Standard PLA also offers a wider range of specialty colors, silks, and translucent options for aesthetic projects.
For Educational Settings
Schools and makerspaces should stock both materials. Standard PLA handles the majority of student projects efficiently. Keep a few spools of PLA+ for projects where students build functional mechanisms, such as robotic grippers, gear assemblies, and structural frames that will be handled repeatedly.
PLA vs PLA+: Cost-Benefit Analysis
The typical price premium for PLA+ is 30-40% per kilogram. When does this premium pay for itself? Consider these scenarios:
- One failed functional part replaced: If a standard PLA bracket fails and causes downtime costing more than the price difference between one spool of standard PLA and one spool of PLA+, the upgrade pays for itself on the first failure prevented
- Customer returns: If you sell 3D printed products, a single return or negative review due to breakage costs far more than switching to PLA+ for your entire production
- Time savings: PLA+ prints at comparable speeds to PLA on most printers, so there is no time penalty for using the stronger material
Why Choose Nylon Plastic for Your 3D Printing and Engineering Plastic Needs
With over 10 years of experience in engineering plastics, Nylon Plastic supplies high-performance materials to B2B clients worldwide. Our product range covers nylon (PA6, PA66, PA12), POM, PEEK, and 3D printing filaments including PLA, PLA+, and PETG. Every batch is tested for diameter tolerance (±0.03mm), moisture content, and mechanical properties before shipping.
- ISO 9001 certified manufacturing facilities
- Bulk supply with competitive B2B pricing
- Technical support for material selection and printing parameters
- Fast global shipping from multiple warehouses
- Custom material formulation available for OEM projects
Lire la suite
- PLA vs PLA: Understanding the Different PLA Filament Grades
- PLA+ vs PLA: Strength, Heat Resistance and Print Quality Compared
- 3D Printing Materials Comparison
Questions fréquemment posées
Is PLA+ just regular PLA with different marketing?
No. While there is no formal ASTM or ISO standard for “PLA+,” legitimate PLA+ filaments contain measurable additives that improve mechanical properties, especially impact resistance and elongation. Independent testing by channels like CNC Kitchen has confirmed that PLA+ consistently outperforms standard PLA in toughness metrics. However, the magnitude of improvement varies by brand, so verify manufacturer claims against third-party test data.
Can I use PLA+ in a printer without a heated bed?
Yes. Like standard PLA, PLA+ does not require a heated bed for successful printing. A room-temperature build plate with painters tape, PEI, or BuildTak surface will provide adequate adhesion. That said, a heated bed at 50-60°C improves first-layer consistency and reduces the risk of corner lifting on larger prints.
Does PLA+ require a filament dryer more than standard PLA?
PLA+ tends to absorb moisture at a similar or slightly faster rate than standard PLA due to the additive modifications. If you live in a humid climate (relative humidity above 60%), a filament dryer is recommended for both materials. Store both in sealed containers with desiccant when not in use. Drying temperature of 45-50°C works for both.
Which is better for outdoor use: PLA or PLA+?
Neither is ideal for outdoor use. Both degrade under UV exposure and lose strength at temperatures above 55-60°C. PLA+ provides marginally better performance due to improved impact resistance, but for genuine outdoor applications consider ASA (UV-resistant), PETG (moderate UV resistance), or nylon (high toughness and temperature resistance).
