TPU vs PCTG
How TPU and PCTG compare, from typical settings across every filament we list.
- TPU is more flexible; PCTG is easier to print and stiffer.
- PCTG typically prints about 20 °C hotter at the nozzle.
- PCTG typically prints about 35 °C hotter on the bed.
- TPU is less dense, so a 1 kg spool holds about 6 m more 1.75 mm filament.
- There are 158 TPU filaments in 945 colours, and 26 PCTG filaments in 151 colours.
At a glance
Our rating, out of 5| TPU | PCTG | |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of printing | Easier to print | |
| Toughness | ||
| Stiffness | Stiffer | |
| Heat resistance | ||
| Outdoor and UV | ||
| Flexibility | More flexible | |
| Setup | Dry before printing | No enclosure or special setup needed |
| TPU | PCTG | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Thermoplastic polyurethane | Polycyclohexylenedimethylene terephthalate glycol |
| Filaments listed | 158 | 26 |
| Brands | 70 | 13 |
| Colours | 945 | 151 |
| Nozzle temperature | 210–240 °C | 230–260 °C |
| Bed temperature | 30–60 °C | 70–90 °C |
| Density | 1.21 g/cm³ | 1.23 g/cm³ |
| Length of 1 kg (1.75 mm) | about 344 m | about 338 m |
| Max drying temperature | 70 °C | – |
Temperatures are medians across each material's filaments, rounded to 5 °C. Always check the maker's settings for a specific filament.
Brands that make both
10 brands make both TPU and PCTG.