PLA vs Nylon PA6
Compare PLA and Nylon PA6 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
Nylon PA6
BPolyamide 6
Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
Detailed Comparison
Property
PLA
Nylon PA6
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier B
Family
PLA
Nylon (PA)
Nozzle Temp
185-235°C
240-290°C
Bed Temp
50-60°C
70-110°C
Enclosure
not needed
required
Cooling
High part cooling usually beneficial
Low to moderate
Moisture Sensitivity
moderate
very 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
Nylon PA6 Strengths
- Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable
- High heat tolerance; low friction for mechanisms
Considerations
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Nylon PA6 Caveats
- Extremely hygroscopic; can waterlog during a print
- Warps strongly; can pull plates off beds
- Over-drying can make it brittle
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA or Nylon PA6 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: PLA is best for Easiest to print, cheap, widely available, fast, good bridges/overhangs, easy support removal, while Nylon PA6 is best for Exceptional strength, very strong layer bonding, flexible and durable.
What are the temperature differences between PLA and Nylon PA6?
PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. Nylon PA6 prints at 240-290°C nozzle / 70-110°C bed.
Do PLA and Nylon PA6 need an enclosure?
PLA: not needed. Nylon PA6: required.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PLA or Nylon PA6?
PLA is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.