Best 3D Printer Filament for Beginners
PLA+ is a toughened version of PLA. It prints almost as easily but is less brittle, so it handles knocks, snap-fits and light mechanical loads better. For beginners and everyday functional prints, PLA+ is the best all-round choice.
Filaments ranked by difficulty
| Filament | Difficulty | Best use |
|---|---|---|
| PLA | Beginner | Models & prototypes |
| PLA+ | Beginner | Functional prototypes |
| ABS | Intermediate | Functional & heat-exposed parts |
| PETG | Intermediate | Outdoor & durable parts |
| TPU | Advanced | Flexible & impact parts |
Starting settings for PLA+
| Setting | Value |
|---|---|
| Filament diameter | 1.75 mm |
| Nozzle temperature | 200 – 225 °C |
| Bed temperature | 0 – 60 °C |
| Printing speed | 40 – 60 mm/s |
Check the label on your spool for brand-specific values and print a small test first.
First-print checklist
- Level the bed and clean it with isopropyl alcohol
- Dial in the first layer. Most beginner failures start here
- Print a small, simple model before a long one
- Keep the spool sealed when not printing, especially in the monsoon
- Change one setting at a time when troubleshooting
Common beginner mistakes
- Starting with ABS or TPU, which need more tuning
- Printing too fast before the first layers stick
- Leaving spools open in humid weather
- Buying a very cheap, inconsistent spool and blaming the printer
Where to start
A 1 kg spool of PLA+ in black or white is a good first buy. Compare brands from ₹780, and see our full filament comparison.
Frequently asked questions
Is PLA+ better than PLA for beginners?
PLA+ prints with similar settings but is tougher and less brittle, so prints survive handling better. Standard PLA is also beginner-friendly.
Do I need a heated bed for PLA+?
A heated bed at 50–60 °C helps the first layer stick on most printers, although PLA+ can print with a bed from 0 °C.
How many spools should I buy first?
One 1 kg spool is usually enough to learn on. Buy a second colour once your first prints are reliable.