PLA vs Wood PLA
Compare PLA and Wood 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
Wood PLA
BPLA + sawdust
Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips
Detailed Comparison
Property
PLA
Wood PLA
Tier Rating
Tier A
Tier B
Family
PLA
PLA
Nozzle Temp
185-235°C
180-220°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
Wood PLA Strengths
- Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips
- Pleasant tactile 'hardwood-like' feel; varnish can help
Considerations
PLA Caveats
- Creeps under sustained load
- Poor heat resistance, UV degradation, can shatter on drops
- Not great for sanding/gluing/painting/touch-ups
Wood PLA Caveats
- Prints inconsistently (spurts/sputters), especially when humid
- Absorbs humidity easily
- Weaker than PLA
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA or Wood PLA better for 3D printing?
PLA is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to Wood 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 Wood PLA is best for Convincing woodgrain effect with visible chips.
What are the temperature differences between PLA and Wood PLA?
PLA prints at 185-235°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed. Wood PLA prints at 180-220°C nozzle / 50-60°C bed.
Do PLA and Wood PLA need an enclosure?
PLA: not needed. Wood PLA: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PLA or Wood PLA?
Both PLA and Wood PLA are beginner-friendly options.