HIPS vs TPU

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

HIPS vs TPU: HIPS is known for impact-tolerant, while TPU is known for excellent layer adhesion. TPU is easier to print; HIPS is less moisture-sensitive; HIPS prints at higher nozzle temperatures (220-250°C vs 200-240°C). Choose HIPS for impact-tolerant, or TPU for excellent layer adhesion.

Key differences at a glance

Property
HIPS
TPU
Nozzle temp
220-250°C
200-240°C
Bed temp
90-110°C
30-60°C
Enclosure needed
Recommended
No
Ease of printing
Moderate
Easy
Moisture sensitivity
low
high

HIPS

B

High Impact Polystyrene

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

TPU

S

Thermoplastic Polyurethane

Excellent layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; highly durable

Detailed Comparison

Property
HIPS
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier S
Family
PS
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
220-250°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
90-110°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
recommended
not needed
Cooling
Low cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
low
high

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)

TPU Strengths

  • Excellent layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; highly durable
  • Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
  • Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)

Considerations

HIPS Caveats

  • Often positioned as support material, but usable standalone

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

What is the difference between HIPS and TPU?
HIPS prints at 220-250°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed (Recommended enclosure, low moisture sensitivity). TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed (No enclosure, high moisture sensitivity).
Is HIPS or TPU stronger?
Our dataset does not include comparable tensile strength values for both. Qualitatively, HIPS is suited to impact-tolerant, while TPU is suited to excellent layer adhesion.
Which prints at a higher temperature, HIPS or TPU?
HIPS prints at a higher temperature (220-250°C nozzle vs 200-240°C for TPU).
Is HIPS or TPU better for beginners?
Both are similarly approachable: HIPS (recommended enclosure, low moisture) and TPU (no enclosure, high moisture).
Should I use HIPS or TPU for flexible parts?
For flexible parts, TPU is usually the better fit (Excellent layer adhesion). Choose HIPS instead when impact-tolerant.

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