PETG for 3D printing — tough, chemically resistant, water-proof and suitable for outdoors. When to pick PETG over PLA or ABS, with practical advice.
3D printing with PETG — strength and outdoors
Upload a file for a pricePETG is the golden middle between PLA and ABS: as tough as ABS and as easy to print as PLA. It withstands −20 to +75 °C, is not afraid of water and handles the salty Bulgarian winter better than most plastics.
When PETG: outdoor parts (brackets, mounts, terrace decor), functional parts with moderate loads, contact with water, children's toys under heavier use.
Limitations: the surface is glossier and lags behind PLA on fine details; it has a slightly "breathy" look — for premium decor PLA still wins.
PETG or ABS for outdoors?
PETG is easier to print and more UV-resistant; ASA prints in an enclosed chamber and is more temperature-resistant. For most outdoor jobs PETG is enough.
Is PETG printing more expensive?
A little — PETG filament costs more than PLA and prints slower. The difference is 10–30% versus PLA depending on volume.