However, PLA+ filament usually yields a better first layer than normal PLA because of the more precise manufacturing techniques used to make this material. Furthermore, according to FilamentPM, PLA+ filament is more consistent, material-wise, than normal PLA filament, so first-layer adhesion issues are much less frequent. Flexibility PLA is an environmentally friendly and recyclable high-quality plastic. With this material you can easily print objects in any shape, in detail. PLA filament is stronger and shinier than ABS and you do not need a heated bed for a high-quality result. Below, I’ve made a table listing some of the popular PLA and PLA+ filaments with their respective costs: PLA Filaments: PLA is widely considered the most environmentally friendly 3D printing filament. PLA+ filaments tend to be less biodegradable and environmentally friendly than regular PLA options because of the different additives used to make this material. However, compared to oil-based materials like ABS, PLA+ is still a very environmentally-friendy option.

Of course, it’s worth noting that the typical print speed of PLA is 60 mm/s, so you probably won’t get up to 80 or 100 mm/s, but having the ability to do so when time is running out is always nice.ABS is one of the most widely-used plastics in the world, and it’s especially popular for 3D printing due to its high durability and heat resistance. However, if you’re printing any functional part and still want a very effortless printing experience, PLA+ is for you! This enhanced version of PLA boasts many improved mechanical properties, including higher thermal resistance, tensile strength, impact resistance, and dimensional accuracy. It even yields smoother prints! You should try to keep your PLA and PLA+ filaments away from humid environments to maximize the quality of your prints. I recommend using a filament dry box to store your filament, but because both of these materials aren’t super hygroscopic, it might not be necessary if your 3D printer is already located in a dry environment. Post-Processing The filament has a diameter of 1.75mm and an ideal print temperature of 210°C. In addition, the filament does not shrink during cooling and with this ultra-strong PLA you will hardly suffer from warping. For best results, print with a heated bed at a temperature between 60°C and 80°C. But, if your 3D printer doesn’t have an enclosure, I strongly suggest avoiding ABS as printing in an open-air environment almost always yields low-quality or failed prints. PETG

With higher heat resistance, you won’t have to worry about parts melting or deforming under the heat of the sun. So whether you’re 3D printing car dashboard decorations or a part for your outdoor porch, you should always choose PLA+ over standard PLA when the part will face heat. Ease of Printing This PLA Tough filament from REAL combines the ease of use of PLA with the excellent mechanical properties of ABS!PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a thermoplastic polymer made from renewable resources such as corn starch, sugarcane, or other starch-rich crops. It is commonly used as a 3D printing filament for a variety of reasons, including: Overall, PLA+ is a type of PLA marketed to reflect the material’s superior properties, and it’s a great option for printing functional models that require more strength. Source: u/holydeltawings on Reddit. The PLA+ part on the right looks slightly glossier, and with no stringing on the top that the PLA part has. PLA vs PLA+: The Differences PLA is known for being a very non-toxic material that’s generally food-safe and produces very little fumes. According to Xometry, PLA+ is also not toxic, but obviously, the additives used in a PLA+ filament vary from manufacturer to manufacturer so this might not always be true. Carbon Fiber - An extremely useful material, carbon fiber can be added to PLA to give it more resistance to impact and prolonged loads, making it much stronger than PLA on its own. Can PLA be recycled? It’s important to note that different companies each have their own unique PLA+ formula with a distinct set of additives, meaning different PLA+ filaments will perform differently. For example, some PLA+ filaments might contain TPU to make prints more impact-resistant, while others might contain other additives that increase rigidity.