TPU vs TPE
How TPU and TPE compare, from typical settings across every filament we list.
Short answer
Choose TPU for most flexible parts: it is firmer, tougher, wears better and is easier to print. Choose TPE when you want a softer, stretchier, grippier feel and have a direct-drive printer that can feed very soft filament.
- TPU is easier to print, tougher, more heat resistant and better outdoors.
- TPU and TPE print at about the same temperature at the nozzle.
- TPU and TPE print at about the same temperature on the bed.
- TPE is less dense, so a 1 kg spool holds about 2 m more 1.75 mm filament.
- There are 158 TPU filaments in 945 colours, and 13 TPE filaments in 41 colours.
At a glance
Our rating, out of 5| TPU | TPE | |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of printing | Easier to print | |
| Toughness | Tougher | |
| Stiffness | ||
| Heat resistance | More heat resistant | |
| Outdoor and UV | Better outdoors | |
| Flexibility | ||
| Setup | Dry before printing | Dry before printing |
| TPU | TPE | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | Thermoplastic polyurethane | Thermoplastic elastomer |
| Filaments listed | 158 | 13 |
| Brands | 70 | 9 |
| Colours | 945 | 41 |
| Nozzle temperature | 210–240 °C | 210–240 °C |
| Bed temperature | 30–60 °C | 30–60 °C |
| Density | 1.21 g/cm³ | 1.20 g/cm³ |
| Length of 1 kg (1.75 mm) | about 344 m | about 346 m |
| Max drying temperature | 70 °C | 60 °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
7 brands make both TPU and TPE.
TPU vs TPE questions
What is the difference between TPU and TPE?
TPE is the broad family of rubber-like plastics, and TPU is one type within it. In practice, filaments sold as TPU are firmer and tougher, and filaments sold as TPE are softer and stretchier.
Which is easier to print?
TPU, especially firm grades around 95A. Soft TPE buckles more easily, so it needs slow printing, a direct-drive extruder and little or no retraction.
Which is better for phone cases?
TPU around 95A. It grips, absorbs drops and holds its shape.
Which is softer?
Usually TPE. Check the Shore A hardness on the spool: lower numbers are softer, whatever the material is called.