ELEGOO vs Polymaker: 3d Printing Filaments Compared by Specs
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When you compare ELEGOO vs polymaker 3d printing filament, you are looking at two distinct material choices for your printer. Both brands offer 1.75mm diameter spools with a net weight of 1kg. They share universal compatibility with standard FDM printers. The main difference lies in the polymer type. ELEGOO provides standard PLA for easy, odorless printing with a glossy finish. Polymaker offers ASA, which is engineered for outdoor durability and high heat resistance.
Key differences
| Aspect | ELEGOO 1.75mm Grey PLA Filament (1kg) | Polymaker ASA 1.75mm Filament (1kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | PLA | ASA |
| Surface Finish | Glossy | not listed |
| Dimensional Accuracy | +/- 0.02 mm | not listed |
| Heat Resistance | not listed | Up to 100˚C (212°F) |
| UV Resistance | not listed | UV & Weather Resistant |
| Recommended Nozzle Temp | not listed | 250˚C |
Which one should you choose?
Choose ELEGOO 1.75mm Grey PLA Filament (1kg) if
- You need a filament that is odorless and easy to print with for indoor projects.
- You want a glossy surface finish and tight dimensional tolerance for detailed models.
- You are printing with standard settings and do not require high heat resistance.
Choose Polymaker ASA 1.75mm Filament (1kg) if
- You are making parts that will face outdoor weather or direct sunlight.
- You need functional prototypes or mechanical parts that must withstand high temperatures.
- You require high toughness and impact resistance for durable real-world applications.
Verdict: Choose ELEGOO PLA if you prioritize ease of use, low warping, and a smooth glossy look for general hobbyist projects. Select Polymaker ASA if your prints need to survive outdoor conditions or endure mechanical stress and heat. The right choice depends entirely on whether your priority is printability or physical durability.
ELEGOO PLA vs Polymaker ASA Specs
Material Type
The ELEGOO filament is made from PLA, a thermoplastic known for its ease of use and low melting temperature. It is odorless during printing and offers a glossy surface finish. Polymaker offers ASA filament, which combines the properties of ABS with added weather resistance. ASA is UV-resistant and less prone to environmental stress cracking. This makes Polymaker’s material better suited for outdoor applications like RC planes or car accessories. ELEGOO’s PLA is ideal for indoor projects where odor and simplicity are priorities. The choice depends entirely on your intended environment and project type.
Heat Resistance
ELEGOO lists a lower melting temperature typical for PLA but does not provide a specific maximum service temperature in the published data. Polymaker specifies that its ASA filament can withstand temperatures up to 100˚C (212°F). This high heat resistance makes Polymaker’s filament suitable for functional applications and mechanical parts that may experience thermal stress. If your project requires durability in warm environments, Polymaker provides the necessary thermal stability. ELEGOO’s PLA may deform under higher heat conditions. For heat-intensive use cases, Polymaker offers a clear technical advantage.
Dimensional Accuracy
ELEGOO guarantees strict tolerances with a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm for its 1.75 mm diameter filament. This precision ensures smoother and more stable printing processes. Polymaker lists a filament diameter of 1.75 mm but does not publish a specific tolerance value in the provided specifications. While both products aim for consistency, ELEGOO provides explicit data on dimensional precision. This transparency helps you plan for high-detail prints where layer uniformity is critical. Polymaker’s lack of stated tolerance data leaves this aspect less defined by the manufacturer.
Mechanical Properties
Polymaker ASA offers high toughness and impact resistance, sharing properties with ABS filament. It provides strong and durable layer adhesion, making it suitable for functional prototypes, brackets, housings, and tools. ELEGOO PLA is described as easy to use with great fluidity but does not list specific mechanical strength metrics. PLA is generally more brittle than ASA. If you need parts that can withstand physical stress or impact, Polymaker’s ASA is the superior choice. ELEGOO is better for non-functional models where toughness is not required.
Surface Finish
ELEGOO PLA provides a glossy surface finish out of the box. This aesthetic quality is often preferred for decorative items and visual prototypes. Polymaker does not specify a surface finish type in its published data, though ASA typically offers a semi-gloss to matte appearance depending on printing settings. If a shiny, polished look is your priority, ELEGOO delivers that result directly. Polymaker’s finish may require post-processing or specific settings to achieve similar aesthetics. For immediate glossy results, ELEGOO holds the advantage.
Which 3D Filament Should You Choose
Beginners seeking easy, low-odor prints
The ELEGOO PLA filament is ideal for newcomers. It features a low melting temperature and produces no odor during printing. The glossy finish and minimal warping ensure smooth results. With strict dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm, you get consistent layers. The vacuum-sealed packaging protects against moisture, preventing clogs and bubbles for reliable, hassle-free printing.
Users needing durable outdoor functional parts
Choose Polymaker ASA for projects exposed to the elements. This filament offers UV and weather resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications like car accessories. It withstands temperatures up to 100°C and provides high impact resistance. The strong, durable nature of ASA ensures your functional prototypes and mechanical parts remain intact under stress and environmental conditions.
Printers requiring high heat tolerance
Polymaker ASA handles higher temperatures than standard PLA. It withstands heat up to 100°C, which is critical for parts near engines or in warm environments. The material combines rigidity with toughness, ensuring reliable layer adhesion. If your prints need to maintain structural integrity under thermal stress, this ASA filament provides the necessary mechanical properties for real-world durability.
The products compared
ELEGOO 1.75mm Grey PLA Filament (1kg)
Best for: Standard PLA prints needing tight tolerances
- Material Type
- PLA
- Filament Diameter
- 1.75mm
- Net Weight
- 1kg
- Dimensional Accuracy
- ±0.02mm
- Surface Finish
- Glossy
- Printing Technology
- FDM
View on Amazon: ELEGOO 1.75mm Grey PLA Filament (1kg) Affiliate link
This ELEGOO PLA filament offers 1.75 mm diameter with +/- 0.02 mm dimensional accuracy. It provides a glossy surface finish and is designed for low warp and shrinkage. The material is dried and vacuum sealed to prevent clogging. It works with most 1.75 mm FDM 3D printers. You get a 1 kg spool with a large inner diameter for easy feeding. This option suits users seeking consistent layer bonding and smooth extrusion for their prints.
Pros
- Dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm ensures stable printing.
- Glossy surface finish provides a high-quality look.
- Vacuum sealed packaging protects against moisture.
- Large spool inner diameter allows for easy feeding.
Cons
- Limited to PLA material type only.
- 1 kg spool size is smaller than bulk 4 kg or 10 kg options.
- Grey color is a single choice without multi-pack variety.
Good fit if
- You need reliable dimensional accuracy for precise parts.
- You want a glossy finish for display models.
- You use standard 1.75 mm FDM printers.
Skip if
- You require PETG or ABS material properties.
- You prefer matte or textured surface finishes.
- You need bulk 10 kg spools for large projects.
Verdict: ELEGOO PLA Filament 1.75mm Grey 1KG delivers tight tolerances and a glossy finish for reliable FDM printing. It fits users who prioritize dimensional consistency and moisture protection for standard PLA projects.
Polymaker ASA 1.75mm Filament (1kg)
Best for: outdoor functional parts
- Material Type
- ASA
- Filament Diameter
- 1.75mm
- Net Weight
- 1 kg
- Max Print Speed
- 50mm/s
- Size
- 1KG
- Application
- Functional Parts
View on Amazon: Polymaker ASA 1.75mm Filament (1kg) Affiliate link
This Polymaker ASA filament offers UV and weather resistance, making it suitable for outdoor applications like RC planes and car accessories. It withstands temperatures up to 100°C and provides high toughness. The 1.75mm diameter ensures compatibility with most printers. You get a 1kg spool for functional prototypes and durable mechanical parts that require reliable layer adhesion.
Pros
- UV and weather resistant for outdoor use
- Withstands temperatures up to 100°C
- High toughness and impact resistance
- Strong and durable layer adhesion
Cons
- Requires an enclosed printer for large parts to prevent warping
- Standard ABS-like settings needed, not beginner-friendly
- Only available in 1.75mm diameter
Good fit if
- You need parts for outdoor exposure
- You require high heat resistance
- You print functional mechanical components
Skip if
- You lack an enclosed printer
- You prefer low-temperature printing
- You need flexible materials
Verdict: Polymaker ASA 1.75mm White 1KG is ideal for users needing durable, weather-resistant parts for outdoor or functional use. It suits those with enclosed printers who need high heat tolerance.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ELEGOO 1.75mm Grey PLA Filament (1kg) | Polymaker ASA 1.75mm Filament (1kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Material Type | PLA | ASA |
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm | 1.75mm |
| Net Weight | 1kg | 1 kg |
| Max Print Speed | not stated | 50mm/s |
| Dimensional Accuracy | ±0.02mm | not stated |
| Surface Finish | Glossy | not stated |
| Printing Technology | FDM | not stated |
| Compatible Material | PLA | ASA |
| Color | Grey | 115 - 1.75mm White (Hex Code: #Dbd7d6) |
| Size | 1KG | 1KG |
| Application | not stated | Functional Parts |
| Weight | 2.2 pounds | 2.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | not stated | 7.87 × 7.87 × 2.36 inches |
| Model | not stated | PF01002 |
Frequently asked questions
Is ELEGOO PLA filament suitable for outdoor projects?
No. The ELEGOO filament is made from PLA, which is not designed for outdoor use. It lacks the weather resistance needed for exterior applications. For outdoor functional parts, you should choose Polymaker ASA instead. ASA provides the durability and environmental stability required for items exposed to the elements.
Does Polymaker ASA require an enclosed printer?
Yes. Polymaker ASA is ideal for users with enclosed printers. It offers high heat tolerance and is designed for durable, weather-resistant parts. An enclosed environment helps manage the printing process for this material, ensuring better results for functional components that need to withstand stress and temperature changes.
What is the spool size for these filaments?
Both brands offer 1kg spools. The ELEGOO PLA filament comes in a 1kg size. The Polymaker ASA filament also comes in a 1kg size. This standard weight provides a consistent amount of material for your printing projects, allowing you to estimate usage based on the 1.75mm diameter and net weight.
Which filament is better for beginners?
ELEGOO PLA is better for beginners. It is ideal for newcomers seeking easy, low-odor prints. The material features a low melting temperature and produces no odor during printing. The glossy finish and minimal warping ensure smooth results. This makes it a reliable choice for standard PLA projects requiring tight tolerances.
What colors are available for these filaments?
ELEGOO offers this PLA in Grey. The Polymaker ASA is available in White. Specific hex codes are provided for the Polymaker color, such as #Dbd7d6. These color options allow you to match your prints to specific aesthetic needs or functional requirements while maintaining the structural properties of the chosen material type.
Can I use these filaments in any FDM printer?
Yes. Both filaments have a 1.75mm diameter. This is the standard size for most FDM printers. The ELEGOO PLA and Polymaker ASA spools fit universal compatibility with standard FDM printers. You can load either filament into your machine without needing specialized hardware, provided your printer handles the specific temperature requirements of the material.
Which filament provides a glossy finish?
ELEGOO PLA provides a glossy finish. It delivers tight tolerances and a glossy surface for reliable FDM printing. This aesthetic quality is beneficial for standard PLA projects where visual appeal is important. In contrast, Polymaker ASA focuses on durability and weather resistance, prioritizing functional performance over surface gloss for outdoor parts.