PLA+ filaments for 3D printing
PLA+ offers greater strength and reliability while keeping the same ease of printing as classic PLA. Thanks to its better mechanical strength it is ideal for functional parts, prototypes and models that need to last over time.
At Filamentor we offer the cheapest filaments from the Smart print and Professional lab (Prof. lab) series. You get a material with a consistent diameter and excellent quality for hobby and professional projects at an unbeatable price.
Buying guide
Are you looking for a material that prints as easily as regular PLA but offers noticeably higher mechanical resistance? This PLA+ filament is the ideal solution for mechanically stressed parts where standard material fails due to brittleness. In our selection, you will find tough PLA from established brands like Smart Print and Prof. Lab, and we actively test both materials on our own printers.
Where to use PLA+ filament
Thanks to its modified composition, PLA+ filament is suitable for a wide range of practical projects. You can use it wherever you need to combine high dimensional accuracy with impact resistance.
- Functional prototypes and mechanical parts that need to withstand occasional impacts.
- Jigs, mounting brackets and storage systems for your home workshop.
- Board game pieces and toys that might fall on the floor.
- Large prints where you will appreciate zero warping during cooling.
Recommended print settings
The material does not require any special modifications to your 3D printer. To achieve optimal layer adhesion, we recommend starting at the middle of the given temperature range.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 200 to 230 °C |
| Bed temperature | 0 to 60 °C |
| Enclosure | No (an open printer is ideal) |
| Practical tip | For maximum strength, increase the nozzle temperature to the upper limit and reduce cooling slightly. |
Comparison with standard PLA and PETG
If you are undecided on which material to choose, it is good to know the main differences. Standard PLA is slightly cheaper and offers sharper details, but it is significantly more brittle. It tends to crack upon impact, while PLA+ filament is more likely to bend thanks to its toughness. If you need higher temperature resistance, PLA+ will not help you. The material softens around 55 to 60 °C, which is similar to regular PLA. In that case, we recommend reaching for PETG, which can handle higher temperatures and is suitable for outdoor use. However, PETG is slightly harder to print and can string more.
Frequently asked questions about PLA+
What is the difference between Smart Print and Prof. Lab brands?
The Smart Print brand offers an excellent price-to-performance ratio for a 1 kg spool. The Prof. Lab brand is designed for more demanding applications where you will appreciate strict manufacturing tolerances and a consistent 1.75 mm diameter across the entire spool.
Do I need to dry the material before printing?
Even though PLA+ filament is not an extremely hygroscopic plastic, it will gradually absorb moisture from the open air. If you notice degraded surface quality or hear popping in the nozzle, we recommend drying the spool at 45 °C for a few hours.
Is PLA+ suitable for outdoor use?
We do not recommend this material for permanent placement outdoors or in a car. Although it has excellent mechanical resistance, the low temperature resistance means your prints could warp in the summer sun.
If you want to check out other materials, visit our main category where you will find all filaments neatly in one place. For aesthetic models, you can choose standard PLA filaments, while owners of fast printers will appreciate special HS-PLA for fast printing. We also think of makers on a budget, for whom we have budget-friendly filaments without compromising on quality.