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3D printing has revolutionized the way we create objects, from simple household items to complex industrial parts. One of the most crucial elements in this process is the filament used. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore some of the best 3D printer filaments available on the market, comparing their features, prices, and overall performance.
The quality of your 3D prints largely depends on the filament you use. A good filament can make the difference between a smooth, precise print and a rough, inaccurate one. Factors such as material composition, diameter consistency, and color quality all play a role in determining the final outcome of your project.
Before diving into our top picks, let's briefly discuss the main types of 3D printer filaments:
In this article, we'll focus primarily on PLA filaments, as they are the most commonly used and beginner-friendly option.
HATCHBOX is a well-known brand in the 3D printing community, and their Black PLA filament is a popular choice among enthusiasts. Priced at approximately £20.99 (subject to change and offers), this 1 KG spool offers excellent value for money. The filament boasts a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03 mm, ensuring consistent extrusion and high-quality prints. Its 1.75mm diameter is compatible with a wide range of 3D printers, making it a versatile option for both beginners and experienced users.
For those looking to add a touch of elegance to their prints, Geeetech's Silk Silver PLA filament is an excellent choice. Priced at around £21.99 (price may vary), this 1kg spool offers a beautiful metallic finish that can elevate the appearance of your 3D prints. The 1.75mm diameter ensures compatibility with most FDM printers, while the silk-like texture provides a smooth and shiny surface finish.
Amazon's in-house brand offers a budget-friendly option with their PLA filament. Priced at approximately £14.43 (subject to change), this 1kg spool of black PLA filament provides good value for those looking to save on materials. While it may not have the same level of precision as some premium brands, it's a solid choice for everyday printing and prototyping.
OVERTURE's Silk Gold PLA filament is perfect for creating eye-catching prints with a luxurious finish. Priced at around £21.99 (price may fluctuate), this 1kg spool offers a clog-free printing experience and a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.05mm. The silk-like sheen adds a premium touch to your 3D printed objects, making it ideal for decorative items and display pieces.
SUNLU's Black PLA filament is a reliable choice for those seeking consistent print quality. Priced at approximately £17.99 (subject to offers and changes), this 1kg spool boasts an impressive dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm. The neatly wound filament ensures smooth feeding and reduces the risk of tangling during printing, making it suitable for long print jobs.
eSUN's PLA+ filament offers enhanced toughness compared to standard PLA, making it suitable for functional parts as well as decorative prints. Priced at around £15.99 (price may vary), this 1kg spool of black filament provides excellent value for its improved properties. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03mm, it ensures consistent extrusion and high-quality prints.
Another offering from SUNLU, this PLA+ filament provides enhanced toughness and improved layer adhesion compared to standard PLA. Priced at approximately £18.99 (subject to change), this 1kg spool of black filament offers a good balance between quality and affordability. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm, it ensures precise and consistent prints.
For those looking for a unique printing material, GIANTARM's transparent PLA filament is an interesting option. Priced at around £14.44 (price may fluctuate), this 1kg spool allows you to create see-through objects or combine with other colors for interesting effects. While the product description doesn't specify the dimensional accuracy, transparent filaments can be particularly useful for certain projects and prototypes.
ERYONE's black PLA filament offers good quality at a competitive price point. At approximately £15.99 (subject to change and offers) for a 1kg spool, it provides a dimensional accuracy of +/-0.03mm, ensuring consistent extrusion and reliable prints. This filament is a solid choice for those looking for a balance between cost and quality.
SUNLU's white PLA+ filament is an excellent choice for those who prefer lighter colored prints. Priced at around £13.99 (price may vary), this 1kg spool offers enhanced strength and toughness compared to standard PLA. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.02 mm, it ensures precise and consistent prints, making it suitable for both decorative and functional parts.
For those looking to create metallic prints, CC3D's Silk Silver PLA filament is an excellent option. Priced at approximately £15.99 (subject to change), this 1kg spool offers a beautiful shiny metallic finish that can add a premium look to your prints. While the product description doesn't specify the dimensional accuracy, silk PLA filaments are known for their smooth surface finish and eye-catching appearance.
OVERTURE's Rock White PLA filament offers a unique texture that mimics the appearance of stone. Priced at around £20.99 (price may fluctuate), this 1kg spool provides a dimensional accuracy of +/-0.03mm, ensuring consistent prints with a rock-like finish. This filament is perfect for architectural models, decorative objects, or any project where you want to achieve a stone-like appearance.
For those looking to add some variety to their prints, Eryone's Silk Dual-Color PLA filament in Blue & Green offers an interesting option. Priced at approximately £15.19 (subject to change and offers), this 1kg spool provides a unique color-changing effect as the print progresses. With a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03mm, it ensures consistent extrusion while adding a visually striking element to your 3D prints.
Rounding out our list is AMZ3D's black PLA filament. Priced at around £17.99 (price may vary), this 1kg spool offers a good balance between cost and quality. While the product description doesn't specify the dimensional accuracy, AMZ3D is known for producing reliable filaments suitable for a wide range of 3D printing applications.
When selecting a filament for your 3D printing projects, consider the following factors:
To get the best results from your chosen filament, keep these tips in mind:
Choosing the right 3D printer filament can significantly impact the quality and success of your projects. Whether you're looking for standard PLA, enhanced PLA+, or specialty filaments with unique finishes, there's an option out there to suit your needs. By considering factors such as material properties, printer compatibility, and your specific project requirements, you can select the best filament to bring your 3D printing ideas to life.
Remember, the prices mentioned in this article are approximate and subject to change. Always check the current pricing and any available offers before making a purchase. Happy printing!
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