ASA vs Nylon PA6
Compare ASA and Nylon PA6 filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Nylon PA6
BPolyamide 6
Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
Detailed Comparison
Property
ASA
Nylon PA6
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier B
Family
ASA
Nylon (PA)
Nozzle Temp
220-275°C
240-290°C
Bed Temp
90-110°C
70-110°C
Enclosure
recommended
required
Cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Low to moderate
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
very high
Strengths Comparison
ASA Strengths
- Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
- Less warping than ABS; low viscosity enables very high speed printing
- High heat tolerance (~boiling water range)
Nylon PA6 Strengths
- Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
- High heat tolerance; low friction for mechanisms
Considerations
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Nylon PA6 Caveats
- Extremely hygroscopic; can waterlog during a print
- Warps strongly; can pull plates off beds
- Over-drying can make it brittle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASA or Nylon PA6 better for 3D printing?
ASA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Nylon PA6 (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface, while Nylon PA6 is best for Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable.
What are the temperature differences between ASA and Nylon PA6?
ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed. Nylon PA6 prints at 240-290°C nozzle / 70-110°C bed.
Do ASA and Nylon PA6 need an enclosure?
ASA: recommended. Nylon PA6: required.
Which is more beginner-friendly: ASA or Nylon PA6?
Neither is particularly beginner-friendly - both typically require an enclosure.