PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is the most common 3D printing material in the world: easy to print, biodegradable, produced from renewable sources (corn starch), available in hundreds of colors and finishes. On Strato3D you will find over 170 PLA filaments from the best selected brands: Bambu Lab, Polymaker, Prusament, eSUN, Sunlu, Sakata3D, Anycubic, Creality.
When to use PLA
- Prototypes and models: PLA is the first choice for any prototype, plastic, conceptual model.
- Aesthetic prints: gifts, objects, decorations - PLA colors are the most vibrant and brilliant.
- Model making and cosplay: armor, decorative parts, miniatures, collectible figurines.
- Education: first choice in all schools - easy, safe, low emissions.
- High-speed prints: with Bambu Lab, Creality K1/K2, Prusa Core printers, PLA prints up to 500 mm/s.
Technical characteristics
- Nozzle temperature: 190-220 °C (210-230 °C for high-speed PLA).
- Bed temperature: 50-60 °C - sometimes no heating is needed.
- Shrinkage: minimal (~0.3%) - ideal for parts that must maintain dimensions.
- Mechanical resistance: high rigidity, but fragile. Not for parts subject to impacts or prolonged mechanical stress.
- Thermal resistance: up to 60 °C. Above this, it softens - not for hot environments (car in the sun, dishwasher).
- Biodegradability: industrially compostable, not at room temperature.
Brands you can find on Strato3D
The best PLA filaments on the market selected for quality and consistency between batches: Bambu Lab, Polymaker (Panchroma, PolyLite, PolyTerra), Prusament, Sakata3D (850 and 700 XXL series), eSUN, Sunlu, Creality, Anycubic.
Frequently asked questions
Should PLA be dried before printing? Generally no, but if stored poorly for months, it can absorb moisture and create bubbles during printing. In that case, dry in a dehydrator for 4 hours at 45 °C.
Is it resistant to outdoor conditions and sun? No, PLA is not UV-resistant. For outdoor use, use ASA or PETG.
Is it food-safe? The base material is, but FDM printing creates unsafe micro-cavities. For food use, consult food-safe filaments.
PLA or PLA+ (PLA Plus)? PLA+ is an enhanced formulation: more impact-resistant and higher heat resistance (60-70 °C). It costs 20-30% more but is more versatile.