ASA vs PLA
Compare ASA and PLA 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
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
ASA
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier A
Family
ASA
PLA
Nozzle Temp
220-275°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
90-110°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
recommended
not needed
Cooling
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
moderate
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)
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ASA or PLA better for 3D printing?
ASA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to PLA (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between ASA and PLA?
ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do ASA and PLA need an enclosure?
ASA: recommended. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: ASA or PLA?
PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.