If you've spent any time using an FDM 3D printer, you must be familiar with PLA filament- it's by far one of the most popular materials out there. But here's the thing: not all PLA filaments are created equal. Some offer better strength, smoother finishes, or brighter colors, while others might leave you frustrated with clogs or poor results.
That's why finding the best PLA filament for your 3D printing projects can make a huge difference. In this guide, we'll break down why PLA is such a favorite, highlight the top PLA filament options for 2025, and share practical tips to help you get the best prints every time.
Why Choose PLA for 3D Printing?
Whether you're just starting with 3D printing or have been doing it for a while, PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is probably one of the first materials you'll reach for-and there's a good reason for that!
First off, PLA is cheap, super user-friendly, and works great with nearly any FDM 3D printer. It doesn't need a heated bed (though it helps), and it prints well at relatively low temperatures. That means fewer headaches when setting up your printer and more consistent results.
It's also great for detailed prints. PLA cools quickly, so it's excellent for capturing fine details and sharp edges, giving your projects a clean, professional look. Plus, it comes in a ton of colors and specialty options-glow-in-the-dark, silk finishes, and wood-infused varieties-so you can really get creative.
Another big bonus? PLA is eco-friendly. It's made from renewable resources like cornstarch or sugarcane, and it's biodegradable under the right conditions. Unlike some other filaments, PLA emits minimal fumes during printing, making it more pleasant to work with, especially in enclosed spaces.
7 Best PLA Filaments of 2025
With so many brands and options on the market, finding the best PLA filament for 3D printing can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Don't worry; we've done the research for you. Here are the 7 best 3D printer PLA filaments of 2025 that stand out for their exceptional quality, unique features, and value for money:
1. AnkerMake PLA+ Filament ($27.99/kg)
If you're looking for the best PLA+ filament that delivers glossy, smooth prints every time with excellent adhesion, the AnkerMake PLA+ filament is a top-notch choice. Certified by the AnkerMake Speed Lab, this filament has been validated through over 12 months of rigorous testing. It's designed to handle printing speeds of up to 500 mm/s without compromising on quality.
Made from eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, this best 1.75 mm PLA filament offers a glossy, smooth finish, making your models stand out with flawless quality. Plus, with a high adhesion rate and a low shrinkage rate of just 0.33%, you can achieve precision prints that stick to the plate perfectly.
What's Good:
- High-quality glossy finish
- Handles high-speed printing up to 500 mm/s
- Excellent bed adhesion minimizes warping
- Eco-friendly and non-toxic bio-material
- Durable and resistant
2. MatterHackers Build PLA ($20.87/kg)
Looking for the best quality PLA filament that excels in post-processing? MatterHackers Build PLA is an excellent choice for projects requiring sanding, painting, or other finishing techniques. With good dimensional accuracy and a diameter consistently within the sweet zone, this filament holds together well using superglue and even takes putty and Bondo without complaint. It's a go-to choice for large projects like cosplay armor or swords.
What's Good:
- Easier to sand than most PLA
- Prints well
- Holds paint well with proper priming
3. Flashforge Burnt Titanium PLA ($25.99/kg)
If you're looking for a stunning visual effect in your 3D printed creations, the Flashforge Burnt Titanium PLA from the Adored Chameleon Filament Series is a must-try. This color-changing material responds to different light and angles, concealing layer lines and creating a gorgeous purple-blue-green hue that resembles heated metal. It's easy to print with, emits minimal odor, and is clog-free and bubble-free for a smooth printing experience.
What's Good:
- Gorgeous color shifts
- Hides layer lines well
- Easy to print with
4. Overture Multikilogram PLA ($19.33/kg)
For your large-scale 3D printing needs, Overture's multikilogram is a high-quality PLA filament to consider, and its spools offer a solution to reduce filament runout and ensure consistent color throughout your project. With advanced CCD cameras and closed-loop controls, Overture guarantees a filament diameter of 1.75mm with a tolerance of +/- 0.02mm. The clog-free and bubble-free design, along with meticulous winding and manual inspection, ensures a smooth and hassle-free printing experience.
What's Good:
- Reduces filament runout
- Dimensionally accurate
- Recyclable reel
- Wide color selection
5. Inland Shimmer PLA ($24.99/kg)
If you're the type of 3D printing enthusiast who loves beautiful, eye-catching materials, Inland Shimmer PLA is a must-have. This composite PLA material features a shimmering appearance that hides layer lines and creates stunning printed objects. With low shrinkage, good rigidity, and no need for a heated print bed, this filament is easy to work with and delivers gorgeous results.
What's Good:
- Gorgeous color
- Shimmer hides layer lines
- Easy to print with
6. Elegoo Rapid PLA Plus ($15.99/kg)
When speed is a priority for your 3D printing projects, Elegoo Rapid PLA Plus is an excellent choice. With enhanced fluidity and rapid melting, this filament allows for printing speeds up to 600mm/s without compromising quality. This is one of the best PLA plus filaments that features high flexural modulus and elongation at break, making it resistant to brittleness and cracking. The precise production process guarantees a consistent filament diameter of 1.75mm with an adequate tolerance of +/- 0.02mm.
What's Good:
- Prints extremely well at high speeds
- Cost-effective
- Enhanced strength and toughness
7. CookieCad Mint Chip ($34.95/kg)
For a unique and eye-catching look, CookieCad Mint Chip PLA filament is a fantastic option. This green, glossy filament with black flecks creates marbled designs perfect for dragons, toys, and anything else you can imagine. It's compatible with most 3D printers and pens that take 1.75mm filament and feeds consistently without clogging or jamming issues. The color of this good PLA filament resembles mint chocolate chip ice cream and is sure to make you smile while printing.
What's Good:
- Beautiful, unique color
- Small family business
- High-quality, consistent printing
What to Look for in the Best PLA Filament
When shopping for the best PLA filament for your 3D printing needs, always look for the following key factors:
- Diameter Consistency: The best PLA filaments have consistent diameter throughout the spool. Why does this matter? An inconsistent diameter can cause clogs, uneven extrusion, or even failed prints. Look for filaments with a tolerance of ±0.03 mm or less for reliable results.
- Print Quality:Not all PLA is created equal when it comes to print quality. Options from best PLA filament brands like AnkerMake produce smooth, glossy finishes with minimal warping and stringing. Read reviews and look for filaments that consistently deliver excellent surface detail and dimensional accuracy.
- Adhesion and Shrinkage:Good PLA 3D printer filaments stick well to the print bed and have low shrinkage rates, which means fewer issues like warping or detachment during printing. This is especially important if you're working on large or intricate prints.
- Color and Finish Options:Whether you're after vibrant colors, matte finishes, or specialty styles like silk or glow-in-the-dark, the variety of colors and finishes can make a big difference in your projects. Choose a filament that offers the look you want to bring your designs to life.
- Strength and Durability:Standard PLA is strong enough for most decorative and functional prints, but if you need extra toughness, look for PLA+ options. These are modified versions of PLA that offer better impact resistance and less brittleness.
- Compatibility: Always check that the filament matches your 3D printer's specifications. Most PLA filaments have a diameter of 1.75 mm, but some printers use 2.85 mm. Also, consider the recommended print temperature and bed settings to ensure a smooth experience.
Practical Tips for Getting the Most Out of PLA Filaments
To maximize the performance and quality of your PLA prints, follow these helpful suggestions:
- Storage: Keep PLA filament in a cool, dry place, most preferably in an airtight container with desiccant. Proper filament storage prevents moisture absorption, which can lead to poor print quality and potential nozzle clogs.
- Temperature Calibration: Experiment with temperature settings to find the optimal printing temperature for your specific PLA filament. The right temperature ensures smooth extrusion and good layer adhesion without causing stringing or other defects.
- Bed Preparation: Use a clean build plate and consider applying a thin layer of glue stick or hairspray to improve first-layer adhesion. This step helps prevent warping and ensures your prints stick properly to the build surface.
- Post-Processing: Take advantage of PLA's sandability to achieve smooth surfaces on your prints. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and progressively move to finer grits for a polished finish. You can also paint PLA prints easily for added customization.
Conclusion
As we've seen, almost every 3D printing enthusiast relies on PLA, and for good reason-it's easy to use, versatile, and great for most projects. By exploring our PLA filament reviews for 2025 and learning what to look for, like diameter consistency, shrinkage rates, and strength, you're well on your way to finding the best PLA filament for your needs. Don't forget to apply the practical tips we've shared to make the most of your PLA filament-you'll be amazed at how it can elevate your results.
FAQs about PLA Filament
What is the best PLA filament to use?
One of the best PLA filaments to use is AnkerMake PLA+ Filament. It's reliable, easy to work with, and delivers high-quality prints with a smooth, glossy finish. Plus, it's eco-friendly, durable, and designed for high-speed printing, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced users.
Can I mix PLA and PLA+?
Mixing PLA and PLA+ filaments is generally not recommended. Although both are made from the same base material, they have different properties and characteristics. PLA+ is designed to be stronger and more heat-resistant than standard PLA. Mixing the two may lead to inconsistent print quality, as they have different optimal printing temperatures and settings. It's best to stick with one type of filament for a single print to ensure the best results.
Does PLA weaken over time?
PLA is known to be biodegradable, but the rate of degradation is relatively slow under normal storage conditions. When stored in a cool, dry place away from direct UV rays, PLA filament and printed parts can last for several years without significant weakening. However, exposure to moisture, high temperatures, and UV light can accelerate the degradation process.
