PCL vs TPU
Compare PCL and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PCL
BPolycaprolactone
Very low-temp printing (~100C); softens in warm water; can be heat-formed
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
PCL
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier S
Family
PCL
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
60-110°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
30-45°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Minimal
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
low
high
Strengths Comparison
PCL Strengths
- Very low-temp printing (~100C); softens in warm water; can be heat-formed
- Useful for prosthetics/fitment via hairdryer reshaping
- Can be used like an adhesive; similar to Shapelock/InstaMorph pellets
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
PCL Caveats
- Not actually PLA despite branding
- Low-temp / waxy nature limits use cases; poor adhesion for many glues
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 PCL or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PCL (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PCL is best for Very low-temp printing (~100C); softens in warm water; can be heat-formed, while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between PCL and TPU?
PCL prints at 60-110°C nozzle / 30-45°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do PCL and TPU need an enclosure?
PCL: not needed. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PCL or TPU?
Both PCL and TPU are beginner-friendly options.