Carbon Fiber PETG vs TPU
Compare Carbon Fiber PETG and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Carbon Fiber PETG
SPETG-CF
Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
Carbon Fiber PETG
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier S
Tier S
Family
PETG
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
230-260°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
70-90°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
optional
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
high
Strengths Comparison
Carbon Fiber PETG Strengths
- Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG
- Stiffer than PETG; looks great (glossy walls)
TPU Strengths
- Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
Carbon Fiber PETG Caveats
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Carbon Fiber PETG or TPU better for 3D printing?
Carbon Fiber PETG is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to TPU (Tier S). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Carbon Fiber PETG is best for Greatly improved stability and support quality vs PETG, while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between Carbon Fiber PETG and TPU?
Carbon Fiber PETG prints at 230-260°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do Carbon Fiber PETG and TPU need an enclosure?
Carbon Fiber PETG: optional. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Carbon Fiber PETG or TPU?
Both Carbon Fiber PETG and TPU are beginner-friendly options.