Choosing the right 3D filament can significantly affect the quality, strength, and overall success of your prints—especially when juggling materials like PLA, PETG, and ABS. With so many brands on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones to trust. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or a 3D printing beginner, selecting a reliable filament source helps you save time, money, and frustration.
TL;DR
Good PLA brands include Hatchbox, Prusament, and Overture, loved for their print reliability and color options. PETG choices like eSun, Polymaker, and MatterHackers PRO offer strength and clarity without being too finicky. ABS brands such as Duramic 3D, MG Chemicals, and Inland offer durability and consistency, ideal for high-heat applications. Your choice should depend on your end-use, printer setup, and budget.
Understanding the Basics: PLA, PETG, and ABS
Before diving into the brands, it’s useful to understand the core differences between these three common thermoplastics used in FDM 3D printing:
- PLA (Polylactic Acid): Easy to print, biodegradable, and best suited for non-functional parts like models, decorative items, and prototypes.
- PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): Tough and slightly flexible, PETG offers better temperature and chemical resistance than PLA while remaining relatively easy to print.
- ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): Strong, temperature-resistant, and widely used in industrial settings. It requires high printing temps and good ventilation because it emits toxic fumes.
Best PLA Filament Brands
Hatchbox
Hatchbox has long been a favorite among hobbyists for its affordability and high-quality spools. It’s known for consistent diameter tolerance and vibrant color options. Whether you’re building Prototypes or artistic models, this brand offers excellent adhesion and reliable performance.
Prusament
Manufactured by Prusa Research, Prusament undergoes strict in-house quality control. It provides ultra-precise spool measurements and detailed material traceability through QR codes. While somewhat pricier, the filament’s reliability justifies the cost for mission-critical prints.
Overture
Solid value and wide compatibility make Overture PLA one of the most accessible choices. Their spools come with built-in print beds and are vacuum-sealed, minimizing moisture issues. It’s available in a wide range of colors and types, including Matte and Silk variations.
Top PETG Filament Brands
eSun
Known for offering both quality and affordability, eSun PETG is a solid middle-ground choice. It’s relatively easy to print with minimal warping and good layer adhesion. Many users report its PETG printing as close to PLA in ease—perfect for intermediate users.
Polymaker
Polymaker PolyLite PETG provides excellent optical clarity and a balanced toughness that’s great for mechanical parts and enclosures. It has minimal stringing when properly dialed in and is widely used in functional prototypes and robotics.
MatterHackers PRO Series
The PRO Series PETG by MatterHackers is tailored toward professional users looking for consistent output. Available in a range of colors, it melts smoothly and maintains shape better than cheaper alternatives. It’s often bundled with slicing profiles for optimal performance.
Recommended ABS Filament Brands
Duramic 3D
Duramic 3D ABS is a go-to for users looking for a dependable and affordable filament for stronger, high-temperature applications. Its vacuum-sealed packaging with desiccants ensures minimal moisture, preventing extrusion issues during storage.
MG Chemicals
MG Chemicals offers industrial-strength ABS filament with high impact resistance and precision winding for reliable feeding. It performs well in heated enclosures and is a favorite for printing mechanical parts that require durability.
Inland
For budget users, Inland ABS performs admirably, especially when you want quality results without breaking the bank. While it can be slightly trickier to tune in than premium brands, its affordability and availability make it a favorite at stores like Micro Center.
What to Consider When Choosing a Filament Brand
Even within the same material type, filament from different brands can behave very differently. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting the right brand for your projects:
- Diameter Consistency: Look for brands that guarantee tight manufacturing tolerances—typically ±0.02mm.
- Moisture Resistance: Filament exposed to humidity can cause bubbles, stringing, and weak layers. Brands that properly vacuum-seal with desiccants offer better print results.
- Printing Support: Some brands provide optimized slicer profiles or detailed material sheets, making them easier to dial in for perfect prints.
- Color and Specialty Options: Whether you’re looking for translucent PETG or marble-effect PLA, broader catalogs make experimentation easier.
Tips for Storing and Using Filaments
No matter how good a brand is, improper storage can ruin your filament and your prints. Moisture is the biggest enemy, especially for PETG and ABS.
- Store in airtight containers with silica gel packets.
- Use filament dryers for spools that have absorbed moisture.
- Label opened spools with the date of unsealing.
- Keep track of temperature ranges and print settings for each brand and type.
The Verdict: Matching Brands to Your Printing Goals
For those diving into general-purpose printing, PLA is the breeze you need—opt for Hatchbox or Prusament if quality is a priority. Moving into stronger and more rugged parts? PETG from eSun or Polymaker hits the sweet spot between usability and strength. For end-use durable or heat-resistant parts, ABS from Duramic 3D or MG Chemicals can give you the performance you demand—just ensure your printer is up to the task.
Ultimately, much of filament selection boils down to your specific printing goals, available budget, and the capabilities of your 3D printer. Don’t be afraid to experiment with smaller spools from different brands to find your perfect match.
Final Thoughts
High-quality filament can take your 3D printing from frustrating to flawless. With the wide array of PLA, PETG, and ABS filament brands on the market, knowing the reliable players saves time and minimizes failed prints. Whether you’re designing artistic models, functional gadgets, or precise engineering parts, a good filament brand is the foundation of your 3D printing success. And remember—always keep an eye out for deals and sample packs to try before you commit long-term!
