PVA vs TPU
Compare PVA and TPU filaments side-by-side. See which one is best for your 3D printing project.
PVA
BPolyvinyl Alcohol
Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing)
TPU
SThermoplastic Polyurethane
Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
Detailed Comparison
Property
PVA
TPU
Tier Rating
Tier B
Tier S
Family
Water-soluble supports
Flexible
Nozzle Temp
180-220°C
200-240°C
Bed Temp
45-60°C
30-60°C
Enclosure
not needed
not needed
Cooling
Moderate cooling
Moderate cooling
Moisture Sensitivity
extreme
high
Strengths Comparison
PVA Strengths
- Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing)
- Cleaner overhangs and internal channels
TPU Strengths
- Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible
- Great for combat robots, tactical/rough-use parts
- Rubber-like parts (gaskets, grips, bumpers, wheels)
Considerations
PVA Caveats
- Very moisture sensitive; quickly becomes unusable if left out
- Slower printing; can clog if wet or overheated
- Requires careful pairing (supports must adhere to the model material but still release/dissolve well)
TPU Caveats
- Slow printing; retraction can cause jams (especially in Bowden setups)
- Stringing is common
- Very moisture sensitive; wet TPU prints poorly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PVA or TPU better for 3D printing?
TPU is generally rated higher (Tier S) compared to PVA (Tier B). However, the best choice depends on your specific needs: PVA is best for Dissolvable support for complex geometry (especially with PLA/PETG depending on pairing), while TPU is best for Perfect layer adhesion; extremely impact resistant; nearly indestructible.
What are the temperature differences between PVA and TPU?
PVA prints at 180-220°C nozzle / 45-60°C bed. TPU prints at 200-240°C nozzle / 30-60°C bed.
Do PVA and TPU need an enclosure?
PVA: not needed. TPU: not needed.
Which is more beginner-friendly: PVA or TPU?
Both PVA and TPU are beginner-friendly options.