SainSmart

Very good value + generally consistent; strong TPU reputation with mixed PLA/PETG QC

Tier B

SainSmart is a Tier B brand: solid value with generally consistent quality, but some batch-to-batch variability has been reported. We rate them this way because of multiple filament review sites and amazon spreads rank sainsmart tpu among the best 95a options for strength and printability versus ninjaflex and bowden cr-10 failure reports and amazon qc complaints on diameter and moisture keep the broader lineup at solid b, not a. Materials available from SainSmart include PLA, PETG, TPU 95A, GT-3 High-Speed TPU, ABS, and Wood PLA. In day-to-day printing, SainSmart stands out for: clear petg widely used as a go-to petg despite milky-not-crystal appearance. Spools typically run $18-$28 per kilogram.

Why Tier B?

  • Multiple filament review sites and Amazon spreads rank SainSmart TPU among the best 95A options for strength and printability versus Ninjaflex
  • Bowden CR-10 failure reports and Amazon QC complaints on diameter and moisture keep the broader lineup at solid B, not A

Pros

  • GT-3 TPU marketed for up to 500mm/s on high-speed printers
  • Clear PETG widely used as a go-to PETG despite milky-not-crystal appearance
  • Cardboard spool options on newer PLA lines
  • Large Amazon review volume with majority 4-5 star TPU ratings

Cons

  • TPU fails on Bowden without slow speeds and extruder mods
  • Amazon reviews cite QC problems on diameter and moisture in some lots
  • Limited color selection on PETG versus Hatchbox or eSUN

Additional Notes

  • Best known in community for TPU; dry flexible spools before high-speed GT-3 use

SainSmart Filament FAQ

What materials does SainSmart make?

SainSmart produces filament in the following materials: PLA, PETG, TPU 95A, GT-3 High-Speed TPU, ABS, Wood PLA. Each material is suited to different print applications - check our material database for printing temperatures and specs.

What tier is SainSmart filament rated?

SainSmart is rated Tier B by Filament Cheat Sheet because of multiple filament review sites and amazon spreads rank sainsmart tpu among the best 95a options for strength and printability versus ninjaflex and bowden cr-10 failure reports and amazon qc complaints on diameter and moisture keep the broader lineup at solid b, not a.

Is SainSmart good for beginners?

SainSmart can work for beginners, especially given the price point. Just be aware that some batch variability has been reported, so a temperature tower print is a good first step.

What are the pros and cons of SainSmart filament?

Pros of SainSmart: GT-3 TPU marketed for up to 500mm/s on high-speed printers; Clear PETG widely used as a go-to PETG despite milky-not-crystal appearance; Cardboard spool options on newer PLA lines; Large Amazon review volume with majority 4-5 star TPU ratings. Considerations: TPU fails on Bowden without slow speeds and extruder mods; Amazon reviews cite QC problems on diameter and moisture in some lots; Limited color selection on PETG versus Hatchbox or eSUN.

How much does SainSmart filament cost?

SainSmart filament typically costs between $18 and $28 per kilogram, depending on the material and color. Specialty composite or engineering-grade materials sit at the upper end of that range.

Where can I buy SainSmart filament?

SainSmart filament is widely available on Amazon and from major 3D printing retailers. Look for the specific material (e.g. PLA) when buying to ensure correct print settings.