PLA vs PETG: cost compared
PETG costs slightly more per part and needs a hotter bed. You get heat and water resistance in return. PLA stays the cheaper, easier choice for indoor decor.
| PLA | PETG | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per 100 cm³ of solid part | $2.48 | $2.79 |
| Example print (preset) | $6.70 | $7.27 |
| Typical spool price | $15–25 per kg | $18–28 per kg |
| Density | about 1.24 g/cm³ | about 1.27 g/cm³ |
| Nozzle / bed | 190–220 °C / 50–60 °C | 220–250 °C / 70–85 °C |
| Enclosure | Not needed | Optional |
Typical published ranges and mid-range prices. Example prints use each page's calculator preset. Cost per volume accounts for density: a lighter filament gives more parts per kilogram.
Choose PLA for
Indoor decor, prototypes, fastest setup
- It softens around 55–60 °C, so avoid products for hot cars or dishwashers.
- Its UV resistance is limited for outdoor items.
Choose PETG for
Functional parts, warm rooms, light outdoor use
- It can bond too strongly to smooth PEI. Use a release agent.
What changes the comparison
- At $20/kg, every 100 g of PLA costs about $2.00.
- Low bed temperature keeps the electricity cost low, usually only a few cents an hour.
- Its density is slightly higher than PLA's, so the same model weighs a bit more.
- A hotter bed adds a little to the per-hour power cost.
More comparisons
Know your cost. Now check the demand.
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