PLA vs Matte PLA
Compare PLA and Matte 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
Matte PLA
BMatte PLA composite
Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA
Detailed Comparison
Property
PLA
Matte PLA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier B
Family
PLA
PLA
Nozzle Temp
185-235°C
190-220°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
50-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
high
Strengths Comparison
PLA Strengths
- Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal
- Stiff non-composite thermoplastic, good tensile strength
Matte PLA Strengths
- Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA
- More impact-tolerant than many PLAs
Considerations
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Matte PLA Caveats
- Absorbs humidity faster
- More likely to jam/grind
- Semi-flexible (not ideal for many rigid applications)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA or Matte PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Matte PLA (Tier B). 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 Matte PLA is best for Soft/satin surface, hides layer lines, can be sanded/painted/carved more than typical PLA.
What are the temperature differences between PLA and Matte PLA?
PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. Matte PLA prints at 190-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do PLA and Matte PLA need an enclosure?
PLA: not needed. Matte PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PLA or Matte PLA?
Both PLA and Matte PLA are beginner-friendly options.