PLA vs Carbon Fiber PLA
Compare PLA and Carbon Fiber PLA 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
Carbon Fiber PLA
SPLA-CF
Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage
Detailed Comparison
Property
PLA
Carbon Fiber PLA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier S
Family
PLA
PLA
Nozzle Temp
185-235°C
200-230°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
High cooling beneficial
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
Carbon Fiber PLA Strengths
- Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage
- Matte finish, high dimensional accuracy, stiffer (but more brittle)
- Excellent-looking and accurate prints
Considerations
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Carbon Fiber PLA Caveats
- More brittle than PLA
- Typically limited color selection (often black)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA or Carbon Fiber PLA better for 3D printing?
Carbon Fiber PLA is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PLA (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 Carbon Fiber PLA is best for Sharper details, stabilizes cooling, low shrinkage.
What are the temperature differences between PLA and Carbon Fiber PLA?
PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. Carbon Fiber PLA prints at 200-230°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do PLA and Carbon Fiber PLA need an enclosure?
PLA: not needed. Carbon Fiber PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PLA or Carbon Fiber PLA?
Both PLA and Carbon Fiber PLA are beginner-friendly options.