PETG vs ABS: a comparison for 3D printing

When printing

PETG prints at 230 to 250 °C on a bed at around 70 to 80 °C, shrinks little and does not need an enclosed chamber. ABS needs a nozzle at around 240 to 260 °C, a bed at 100 °C and an enclosed chamber, because it shrinks and warps strongly. ABS also gives off unpleasant fumes, and PETG far fewer.

Properties of the finished part

PETG is tough, resistant to moisture and chemicals, and holds its layers well. It is a little softer and under load is more likely to bend than break. ABS is harder, copes better with temperature (it softens at around 100 °C, PETG at around 80 °C, see glass transition) and can be sanded, glued with a solvent and smoothed with acetone (acetone smoothing). PETG is harder to sand and glue, and acetone does not dissolve it.

Neither lasts forever in the sun, and ASA is better for outdoor use.

What we do

We print PETG (€9 per kg, material share only) and we do not print ABS. For most functional parts, such as brackets, covers, more watertight boxes and components for damp places, PETG is a suitable choice. But if you need heat resistance above 80 °C, it will not be enough. In that case write to us at jakub.novak@boostello.com.

You can also compare PLA and PETG.

How to choose

Do you want something cheap, smooth and strong with no extra demands? PETG. Do you need heat around 100 °C, sanding and finishing? ABS, which another workshop makes. You will see the price of PETG right after uploading a model.

Typical uses

• Covers and boxes for indoors. PETG: cheap, strong, easy to print.
• Parts for damp places and chemicals. PETG: it does not soak up water and withstands many cleaning products.
• Parts for an engine bay. ABS: it withstands more heat. Not with us.
• Parts that need sanding and gluing. ABS glues better with solvents, while PETG needs a different adhesive.