SpoolIndex

The Filament Price Index

Updated July 22, 2026

PLA+ vs PLA: What's the Difference and Which Should You Buy?

PLA+ (or PLA Plus) is a modified version of standard PLA with improved toughness and layer adhesion. We break down the real differences, compare prices, and help you decide which is right for your prints.

Material Guide
If you have shopped for filament recently, you have seen "PLA+" and "PLA Plus" labels alongside standard PLA. The name suggests an upgrade, but the reality is more nuanced. PLA+ is not a single standard — it is a marketing term that covers various PLA formulations with additives to improve specific properties. What Is PLA+? PLA+ is standard PLA mixed with additives to address two of PLA's main weaknesses: brittleness and poor layer adhesion. Manufacturers add proprietary blends of impact modifiers, crystallization agents, and sometimes small amounts of other polymers (like PETG or TPU) to create a filament that is: - Tougher and less brittle than standard PLA - Better layer-to-layer adhesion - Slightly higher temperature resistance (typically 60–70 °C vs 55–60 °C for standard PLA) - Less prone to cracking or snapping under stress However, PLA+ is still PLA at its core. It is not as tough as PETG or ABS. It still becomes soft in a hot car. And it is not suitable for high-temperature or outdoor applications without protection. PLA+ vs Standard PLA: Key Differences The differences between standard PLA and PLA+ are subtle but meaningful in practice: Impact resistance: PLA+ is 2–4x tougher than standard PLA in drop tests. A PLA+ part can survive drops that would shatter standard PLA. This is the biggest practical advantage. Layer adhesion: PLA+ bonds layers more effectively, reducing the risk of layer splitting under stress. This makes PLA+ a better choice for functional parts that experience mechanical load. Print quality: Standard PLA often produces slightly better surface finish and sharper detail, because it cools and solidifies faster. PLA+ can be slightly softer during printing, which can reduce sharp edge definition on very small features. Ease of printing: Both print at nearly identical settings (200–220 °C nozzle, 55–65 °C bed). PLA+ may need slightly slower cooling (less fan) to maximize layer adhesion, but most printers can run the same profile for both materials. Cost: Standard PLA is $14–20/kg. PLA+ is $16–25/kg — a premium of 15–25%. The price gap has been shrinking as PLA+ has become more popular. Temperature resistance: PLA+ holds its shape about 5–10 °C higher than standard PLA (60–70 °C vs 55–60 °C). Neither is safe in a hot car or direct sunlight. When to Use Standard PLA Standard PLA is still the right choice for many prints: - Decorative models, figurines, and display pieces - Prototypes where appearance matters more than strength - Draft prints and test-fit parts - Prints with very fine details or sharp corners - When budget is the primary concern - When you need the widest color selection When to Use PLA+ Reach for PLA+ when the part needs to survive real-world handling: - Functional brackets, clips, and mounts - Parts that will be handled or dropped - Mechanical parts under moderate load - Gifts or products that need durability - Any print where layer adhesion failure would be a problem - Parts that bridge the gap between desk ornaments and functional use Best PLA+ Brands eSUN PLA+ The most popular PLA+ on the market. Consistent quality, excellent diameter tolerance (±0.03 mm), and easy to print on standard profiles. Available in 40+ colors. eSUN's PLA+ prints at 200–215 °C and produces matte finish that hides layer lines well. The 5-pack and 10-pack bundles offer the best value. Polymaker PolyTerra PLA More of a "PLA with enhancements" than a traditional PLA+, PolyTerra focuses on improved toughness and matte aesthetics. It has a unique chalky finish that photograph well. Prices are competitive with standard PLA, making it a strong all-around choice. Overture PLA+ Overture's PLA+ formulation includes added polymers for improved impact resistance. Prints at 200–220 °C with good dimensional accuracy. Their 4-pack bundles offer solid value. Overture PLA+ is slightly glossier than eSUN's offering. Inland PLA+ Micro Center's house brand PLA+, manufactured by eSUN. The same quality as eSUN PLA+ at a lower price point ($15–18/kg). Available in 20+ colors. A great budget option if you live near a Micro Center or can order online. Sunlu PLA+ A very affordable PLA+ that prints well after minor tuning. The $12–15/kg pricing is hard to beat. May require slightly higher nozzle temperatures (215–225 °C) and slower speeds than premium PLA+ brands. Good for high-volume printing where per-spool cost matters most. The Verdict If you are buying one filament to cover all your needs, get PLA+. The marginal price premium of $3–5 per spool is worth it for dramatically improved toughness and fewer broken parts. Keep standard PLA on hand for decorative prints, test runs, and projects where cosmetic finish is the top priority. For most hobbyists, a 2:1 or 3:1 ratio of PLA+ to standard PLA is a good rule of thumb. You will reach for PLA+ for functional parts and standard PLA for display pieces, and both will serve you well.

FAQ

Can I use the same print settings for PLA and PLA+?
Generally yes. PLA+ prints at 200–220 °C (nozzle) and 55–65 °C (bed) — the same range as standard PLA. You may need to reduce part cooling fan to 50–80% for PLA+ to maximize layer adhesion. Print speed can remain the same.
Is PLA+ stronger than PETG?
No. PETG is significantly stronger, tougher, and more impact-resistant than any PLA+ formulation. PLA+ is stronger than standard PLA but still well below PETG and ABS in mechanical properties. If you need real strength, use PETG or ABS.
Is PLA+ food-safe?
Like all PLA variants, PLA+ is not certified food-safe. The additives and colorants in PLA+ are even less studied than standard PLA. Do not use PLA+ for food-contact items, utensils, or cutting boards.
Does PLA+ print with a different finish?
PLA+ from many brands (eSUN, Inland) produces a slightly matte finish compared to standard PLA's gloss. PolyTerra has a distinct chalky, matte finish. If gloss is important, check brand-specific reviews for finish appearance before buying.
Can I mix PLA and PLA+ in the same print?
Yes — PLA and PLA+ are chemically compatible and can be used together in multi-material prints or filament swaps. For best results, keep the nozzle temperature within the range that suits both materials (typically 205–215 °C).
PLA+ is worth the upgrade for any part that needs to survive real use. The small price premium buys significantly better layer adhesion and impact resistance without changing your print workflow. For decorative prints and prototypes, standard PLA remains a perfectly good choice at a lower cost. Browse our current deals on PLA and PLA+ filament to find the best prices on both materials for your next project.

Related