ASA vs PLA

Compare ASA and PLA filaments side-by-side so you can pick the right one for your 3D printing project.

ASA vs PLA: ASA is known for excellent uv resistance (outdoors indefinitely), while PLA is known for easiest to print. PLA is easier to print; ASA prints at higher nozzle temperatures (220-275°C vs 190-220°C). Choose ASA for excellent uv resistance (outdoors indefinitely), or PLA for easiest to print.

Key differences at a glance

Property
ASA
PLA
Nozzle temp
220-275°C
190-220°C
Bed temp
90-110°C
50-60°C
Enclosure needed
Recommended
No
Ease of printing
Moderate
Easy
Moisture sensitivity
moderate
moderate

ASA

A

Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate

Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface

PLA

A

Polylactic 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
190-220°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

Green marks the generally easier or more forgiving option in that row, based on tier, enclosure needs, and moisture sensitivity. It is not always the better choice for a specific job, so weigh it against what your project actually needs.

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

What is the difference between ASA and PLA?
ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed (Recommended enclosure, moderate moisture sensitivity). PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed (No enclosure, moderate moisture sensitivity).
Is ASA or PLA stronger?
Our dataset does not include comparable tensile strength values for both. Qualitatively, ASA is suited to excellent uv resistance (outdoors indefinitely), while PLA is suited to easiest to print.
Which prints at a higher temperature, ASA or PLA?
ASA prints at a higher temperature (220-275°C nozzle vs 190-220°C for PLA).
Is ASA or PLA better for beginners?
PLA is better for beginners: enclosure is no and moisture sensitivity is moderate, vs recommended enclosure and moderate moisture for ASA.
Should I use ASA or PLA for outdoor use?
For outdoor use, ASA is usually the better fit (Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely)). Choose PLA instead when easiest to print.

Other Popular Comparisons

PLA vs PETGPLA vs ABSPETG vs ABSPLA vs Tough PLAABS vs ASAASA vs PETG