PLA vs PLA+: Understanding the Key Differences
PLA is the most popular 3D printing filament, but PLA+ (or PLA Pro) promises better performance. What's the real difference, and is it worth the upgrade?
What is PLA?
Polylactic Acid (PLA) is a biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch. It's the go-to filament for beginners because it prints easily at low temperatures (190-220°C) without requiring a heated enclosure. PLA offers good dimensional accuracy and produces minimal warping.
What is PLA+?
PLA+ is an enhanced version of PLA that incorporates additives — typically TPU, ABS-like polymers, or other impact modifiers — to improve its mechanical properties. The exact formulation varies by manufacturer, but the goal is the same: better strength and durability without sacrificing printability.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Tensile Strength: PLA+ typically offers 20-30% higher tensile strength
- Impact Resistance: PLA+ is noticeably less brittle and absorbs impacts better
- Print Temperature: PLA+ requires slightly higher temps (200-230°C)
- Surface Finish: Standard PLA often has a slightly glossier finish
- Price: PLA+ costs 15-25% more than standard PLA
When to Use PLA
- Prototypes and visual models
- Decorative items that won't face stress
- Low-cost production runs
- Educational settings and classrooms
When to Use PLA+
- Functional parts requiring durability
- Snap-fit assemblies and mechanical components
- Outdoor applications (slightly better UV resistance)
- Parts that need to withstand drops or impacts
Shop Quality Filaments
At InnoStation 3D, we stock a wide range of PLA and PLA+ filaments from leading brands like eSUN and Polymaker. Our PLA+ comes in over 40 colors with consistent diameter tolerance of ±0.02mm for reliable printing every time.
Need ultra-smooth matte finishes? Check out our PLA Matte collection — perfect for display models and aesthetic prints where layer lines need to disappear.