PETG vs ASA
How PETG and ASA compare, from typical settings across every filament we list.
Short answer
Choose ASA for parts that face strong sun or heat all year: it is the most UV-stable common filament and stays rigid to around 95–100 °C. Choose PETG for general outdoor and functional parts when you want easy printing with no enclosure or fumes.
- PETG is easier to print; ASA is more heat resistant and better outdoors.
- ASA typically prints about 15 °C hotter at the nozzle.
- ASA typically prints about 20 °C hotter on the bed.
- ASA is less dense, so a 1 kg spool holds about 62 m more 1.75 mm filament.
- There are 276 PETG filaments in 2,348 colours, and 109 ASA filaments in 638 colours.
At a glance
Our rating, out of 5| PETG | ASA | |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of printing | Easier to print | |
| Toughness | ||
| Stiffness | ||
| Heat resistance | More heat resistant | |
| Outdoor and UV | Better outdoors | |
| Flexibility | ||
| Setup | No enclosure or special setup needed | Needs an enclosure, Needs ventilation |
| PETG | ASA | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Polyethylene terephthalate glycol | Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate |
| Filaments listed | 276 | 109 |
| Brands | 103 | 66 |
| Colours | 2,348 | 638 |
| Nozzle temperature | 220–250 °C | 235–260 °C |
| Bed temperature | 70–90 °C | 90–110 °C |
| Density | 1.27 g/cm³ | 1.07 g/cm³ |
| Length of 1 kg (1.75 mm) | about 327 m | about 389 m |
| Max drying temperature | 65 °C | 85 °C |
Temperatures are medians across each material's filaments, rounded to 5 °C. Always check the maker's settings for a specific filament.
Brands that make both
61 brands make both PETG and ASA; these have the most of each.
PETG vs ASA questions
Is ASA or PETG better for outdoor use?
ASA for long-term use in strong sun; it keeps its colour and strength for years. PETG is fine outdoors for many parts, especially out of direct sun, and is much easier to print.
Does ASA need an enclosure when PETG does not?
Yes. ASA shrinks as it cools and warps without warm, still air, so an enclosure is recommended. PETG warps very little and prints well on open printers.
Which is more heat resistant?
ASA, at around 95–100 °C compared with around 70–80 °C for PETG. That makes ASA the safer choice for car parts and anything near heat.
Which is safer to print indoors?
PETG. ASA gives off styrene-based fumes and needs good ventilation or a filtered enclosure.