PLA vs PETG: A No-Nonsense Guide for Your First Ten Spools

PLA and PETG will cover about 90% of what most people print. The trick is knowing which one to reach for before you hit slice.

When PLA wins

Decorative prints, miniatures, prototypes, anything that lives indoors. It prints fast, forgives a so-so first layer, and gives crisp detail.

When PETG wins

Functional parts, anything near heat or sunlight, and parts that need to flex a little before they snap. Expect some stringing — dry it and slow down your travel moves.