The Best 3D Printing Filaments
Since their invention, 3D printers have inspired possibilities across almost every field imaginable, from medical and product design applications to large-scale architectural and industrial uses. And as the machines have become smaller and more economically accessible, this method of production is becoming increasingly more viable for personal use at home. And if 3D printing is on your horizon, you'll need some filament to make your creation. We wanted to recommend only the best 3D filaments, so we made sure to pick options that featured fair prices, cool colors, and reliably uniform compositions. One of our favorites came from Overture since their vast array of color options contains nothing but high-quality PETG filaments at a bargain price. But if you want to add a bit of a sparkle to your creations, we recommend going with CC3D's metallic filaments. There's a lot to unpack here, so let's dive right in.
Overture PETG 3D Printing Filament
Keep it rolling
Whether you’re an experienced printer or a newcomer looking to step up your game, we encourage you to check out this selection from Overture. Not only do the options offer a range of color possibilities, but they also come in a sturdy spool for easy feeding. Another very popular 3D printing material, PETG is known for its strength and weather resistance. PETG is also used when transparency is desired and is popular for printing items such as bottles and face shields. Although PLA is slightly more cost-effective and is known to print complicated forms more precisely, every designer knows the material choice is a project-by-project decision, and PETG is a great filament to have on hand.
Pros:
- The final product is surprisingly durable once dried, so it’s great for making weatherproof tools and parts.
- This PETG filament is virtually free of bubbles, so it’s less likely to clog your machine.
Cons:
- This filament is made out of PETG, so it may be slightly more expensive than PLA options.
CC3D Silk 3D Printing Filament
Silky smooth
Once you have a solid library of filaments on hand, you may be ready to browse the market for something a little flashier. That’s when we recommend this silk PLA filament by CC3d. This metallic filament is compatible with more FDM 3D printers, and it’s available in a slew of exciting, metallic colors. It’s also available at a similar cost to your basic PLA options. Oftentimes, designers spend hours in post-production, sanding, polishing, or painting their printed items, but this silk PLA completely eliminates the need. Most filaments take a little tinkering to find the right print temperature and this one is known to be a little temperamental, but once you find the sweet spot, the silky PLA finish is sure to impress.
Pros:
- The unique look of the final product makes this a great option for modelers and toymakers.
- Even though the color is unique and flashy, it’s roughly the same price as comparable dull-colored options.
Cons:
- It may take more time to experiment with to find the ideal print temperature for your specific climate and machine.
Amolen PLA 3D Printing Filament
Glow up and up
Almost everything is cooler when it glows in the dark, and this PLA 3D printer filament by Amolen proves it. Available in several dazzling colors, this amazing filament is sure to light up a room. Like other glow-in-the-dark products, the filament is an off-white shade when it’s not glowing. This product is undoubtedly fun, exciting, and experimental, and it’s a great filament for making gifts and toys. When it comes to glow-in-the-dark filaments, something to consider if you’re printing large quantities is that it has the potential to wear down standard brass-printing nozzles.
Pros:
- The glow-in-the-dark colors are great for toys, but they’re also handy for printing tools. With a glow-in-the-dark tool, you won’t lose it easily.
- The range of color choices offers greater room for experimentation.
Cons:
- The glow-in-the-dark color comes at a bit of a higher price than your typical PLA filament.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common materials used for 3D printing filament?
Some of the most common 3Dprinting filament materials are ABS, PLA, PETG, nylon, wood, and metal. The ABS, PLA, and PETG are primarily hard plastic blends that offer a cheap and durable filament solution for 3D printer enthusiasts of all experience levels. Wood, metal, and non-standard filaments offer a more ornamental appearance, and they tend to be more expensive by virtue of their complex material blends.
What temperature setting should I use for 3D printing?
Temperature settings vary both by the type of 3D printer being used and the material selected. You should always check the manufacturer’s recommended settings for printing as well as storage. Even then, though, fluctuations can occur due to temperature, humidity, and other factors that become easier to anticipate with experience.
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