Home/PETG vs TPU
Side-by-side · manufacturer-sourced
PETG vs TPU — settings & when to use which
A side-by-side of recommended print settings and practical trade-offs between PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane), from the manufacturer data this site is built on.
| PETG | TPU | |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle temp | 220–260°C | 210–230°C |
| Bed temp | 55–90°C | 25–60°C |
| Enclosure | Helpful | Not needed |
| Part cooling | low | medium |
| Moisture sensitivity | medium | high |
| Heat resistance | Moderate | Varies by grade; generally modest |
Swipe the table sideways to see every column
- Functional/mechanical parts
- Outdoor parts (better UV/weather than PLA)
- Food-adjacent and watertight prints
- Brackets, fixtures, enclosures
- Gaskets, seals, vibration dampers
- Phone cases and grips
- Flexible hinges and bumpers
- Wearables
FAQ
Should I print in PETG or TPU?
PETG: The practical step up from PLA: tougher, more temperature- and chemical-resistant, and still printable without an enclosure. TPU: Flexible, rubber-like filament for gaskets, phone cases, and dampers. In short, PETG runs cooler (220–260 °C, enclosure helpful) and TPU runs hotter (210–230 °C, no enclosure needed).
Is TPU stronger than PETG?
PETG heat resistance: Moderate. Glass transition ~75–80 °C — handles a warm car better than PLA but is not for high heat. TPU heat resistance: Varies by grade; generally modest. Chosen for flexibility, not heat resistance.