POM vs PETG
Compare POM and PETG filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
POM
FAcetal / Delrin / Polyoxymethylene
Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts)
PETG
APolyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified
Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
Detailed Comparison
Property
POM
PETG
Tier Rating
Tier F
Tier A
Family
POM
PETG
Nozzle Temp
220-260°C
215-270°C
Bed Temp
90-120°C
70-90°C
Enclosure
required
optional
Cooling
Low cooling
Moderate cooling; too much cooling can hurt layer adhesion
Moisture Sensitivity
low
moderate
Strengths Comparison
POM Strengths
- Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts)
- Low friction, wear parts, gears, bushings
PETG Strengths
- Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use
- Good clarity and low friction among easy-to-print materials
Considerations
POM Caveats
- Near-zero bed adhesion; requires mechanical anchoring to bed surface
- Layer splitting; needs heated enclosure and very slow printing
- Heat decomposition can release formaldehyde (high hazard)
- Often outclassed by nylon for printable low-friction parts
PETG Caveats
- Overhangs/bridges sag; supports can be hard to remove
- Absorbs water fairly quickly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is POM or PETG better for 3D printing?
PETG is generally rated higher (Tier A) compared to POM (Tier F). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: POM is best for Very low friction, stiff, easy to machine (in CNC contexts), while PETG is best for Tougher than PLA, higher temp tolerance, more durable in real-world use.
What are the temperature differences between POM and PETG?
POM prints at 220-260°C nozzle / 90-120°C bed. PETG prints at 215-270°C nozzle / 70-90°C bed.
Do POM and PETG need an enclosure?
POM: required. PETG: optional.
Which is more beginner-friendly: POM or PETG?
PETG is more beginner-friendly as it doesn't require an enclosure.