HIPS vs PETG

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

HIPS vs PETG: HIPS is known for impact-tolerant, while PETG is known for tougher than pla. PETG is easier to print; HIPS is less moisture-sensitive; PETG prints at higher nozzle temperatures (230-250°C vs 220-250°C). Choose HIPS for impact-tolerant, or PETG for tougher than pla.

Key differences at a glance

Property
HIPS
PETG
Nozzle temp
220-250°C
230-250°C
Bed temp
90-110°C
70-90°C
Enclosure needed
Recommended
Optional
Ease of printing
Moderate
Moderate
Moisture sensitivity
low
moderate

HIPS

B

High Impact Polystyrene

Impact-tolerant, low density, good for wearables/props

PETG

A

Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified

Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use

Detailed Comparison

Property
HIPS
PETG
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
PS
PETG
Nozzle Temp
220-250°C
230-250°C
Bed Temp
90-110°C
70-90°C
Enclosure
recommended
optional
Cooling
Low cooling
Moderate cooling; too much cooling can hurt layer adhesion
Moisture Sensitivity
low
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

HIPS Strengths

  • Impact-tolerant, low density, good for wearables/props
  • Often used as soluble support for ASA/ABS (limonene)

PETG Strengths

  • Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
  • Good clarity and low friction among easy-to-print materials

Considerations

HIPS Caveats

  • Often positioned as support material, but usable standalone

PETG Caveats

  • Overhangs/bridges sag; supports can be hard to remove
  • Absorbs water fairly quickly

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between HIPS and PETG?
HIPS prints at 220-250°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed (Recommended enclosure, low moisture sensitivity). PETG prints at 230-250°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed (Optional enclosure, moderate moisture sensitivity).
Is HIPS or PETG stronger?
Our dataset does not include comparable tensile strength values for both. Qualitatively, HIPS is suited to impact-tolerant, while PETG is suited to tougher than pla.
Which prints at a higher temperature, HIPS or PETG?
PETG prints at a higher temperature (230-250°C nozzle vs 220-250°C for HIPS).
Is HIPS or PETG better for beginners?
Both are similarly approachable: HIPS (recommended enclosure, low moisture) and PETG (optional enclosure, moderate moisture).
Should I use HIPS or PETG for impact-tolerant?
For impact-tolerant, HIPS is usually the better fit (Impact-tolerant). Choose PETG instead when tougher than pla.

Other Popular Comparisons

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