Nylon PA6 vs PLA
Compare Nylon PA6 and PLA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
Nylon PA6
BPolyamide 6
Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
Detailed Comparison
Property
Nylon PA6
PLA
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier A
Family
Nylon (PA)
PLA
Nozzle Temp
240-290°C
185-235°C
Bed Temp
70-110°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
required
not needed
Cooling
Low to moderate
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moisture Sensitivity
very high
moderate
Strengths Comparison
Nylon PA6 Strengths
- Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
- High heat tolerance; low friction for mechanisms
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Considerations
Nylon PA6 Caveats
- Extremely hygroscopic; can waterlog during a print
- Warps strongly; can pull plates off beds
- Over-drying can make it brittle
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 Nylon PA6 or PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Nylon PA6 (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: Nylon PA6 is best for Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable, while PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal.
What are the temperature differences between Nylon PA6 and PLA?
Nylon PA6 prints at 240-290°C nozzle / 70-110°C bed. PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do Nylon PA6 and PLA need an enclosure?
Nylon PA6: required. PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: Nylon PA6 or PLA?
PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.