PETG vs PLA: Which is Right for You?

By Admin | Jan 5, 2026

3D printing enthusiasts often ask: "Is PETG really worth the extra hassle?" While PLA is the king of ease-of-use, PETG offers superior heat resistance. But what about the cost? Let’s compare price per kg and per gram so you can budget accurately.

What is the price difference?

In 2026, the price gap has narrowed significantly. Historically, PETG was 20-30% more expensive than PLA. Today:

• PLA (Standard): $15 - $22 per kg
• PETG (Standard): $16 - $25 per kg

For most budget brands like Sunlu or eSun, the difference is often less than $2 per roll.

Material	Typical price/kg	Cost per gram
PLA	$15–22	$0.015–0.022
PETG	$16–25	$0.016–0.025

Printability and Settings

One hidden cost of PETG is **failed prints**. PETG is notorious for stringing and bed adhesion issues if not tuned correctly.

• PLA: Prints at 190-210°C. Bed 60°C. Very forgiving.
• PETG: Prints at 230-250°C. Bed 70-80°C. Needs dry filament.

Conclusion

If you are printing decorative parts (toys, statues), stick to **PLA**. It's cheaper, has better detail, and comes in more colors.

If you need functional parts that might sit in a hot car, **PETG** is mandatory. The slight cost increase is worth the durability.

Want the exact cost for your model? Use our calculator to see cost per gram, electricity, and Etsy profit.