PLA vs PETG vs TPU: which should you choose?

PLA prints crisply and cleanly, with sharp detail and a smooth finish. It is stiff and strong enough for most household and desk objects, display models, school projects and prototypes.

Its weakness is heat: PLA can soften and bend if left somewhere hot, such as a car dashboard in the sun or near a heat source.

PETG is more flexible and impact-resistant than PLA, so it is less likely to snap. It tolerates more heat and moisture, which makes it a better choice for functional parts, clips that flex, outdoor or kitchen-adjacent items and enclosures for electronics that get warm.

PETG’s surface can show slightly more stringing and a glossier finish than PLA, and fine details are a little less crisp.

TPU (95A) bends and springs back like hard rubber. It grips, cushions knocks and seals, which suits bumpers, grips, gaskets, feet for furniture or devices, and phone cases.

It prints more slowly than PLA or PETG and costs more per gram, so it is usually the dearest of the three. Very fine details come out a little softer.

Choose PLA for: display models, figurines, organisers, prototypes, school and hobby projects.

Choose PETG for: functional brackets and mounts, clips and snap fits, parts near warmth or moisture, electronics enclosures.

Choose TPU for: parts that must be soft, grip or cushion: bumpers, grips, gaskets, feet and cases.

Not sure? PLA is the safe default. If your part will take knocks or get warm, choose PETG; if it must be soft and bendy, choose TPU.

Replacing something that broke? See replacement parts for finding a model and choosing its material.

Available colours are shown live when you configure your print, based on the filament Tomo actually has in stock, so you only choose what can be made. PETG costs a little more per gram than PLA, and TPU a little more again (example prices).

3D-printed parts are not certified for food contact, medical, electrical, pressure-bearing or safety-critical use. Please choose a certified product for those purposes.