PLA vs ASA
Compare PLA and ASA filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PLA
APolylactic Acid
Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
ASA
AAcrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate
Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
Detailed Comparison
Property
PLA
ASA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier A
Family
PLA
ASA
Nozzle Temp
185-235°C
220-275°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
90-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
recommended
Cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Low to moderate; avoid drafts
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
moderate
Strengths Comparison
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
ASA Strengths
- Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface
- Less warping than ABS; low viscosity enables very high speed printing
- High heat tolerance (~boiling water range)
Considerations
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
ASA Caveats
- Still off-gasses; enclosure/ventilation recommended
- Can still warp; needs tuning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA or ASA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to ASA (Tier A). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal, while ASA is best for Excellent UV resistance (outdoors indefinitely), tough, matte surface.
What are the temperature differences between PLA and ASA?
PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. ASA prints at 220-275°C nozzle / 90-110°C bed.
Do PLA and ASA need an enclosure?
PLA: not needed. ASA: recommended.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PLA or ASA?
PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.