Kea Modelling
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Kea Modelling — 3D Printing Materials — PLA, PETG & TPU Available in Auckland

We print in three FDM materials: rigid PLA, tough PETG and flexible TPU. Here's everything you need to know to choose the right one for your project.

Not sure which to choose? Get in touch and we'll advise you.

PLA

Most popular

Polylactic Acid. The go-to material for most 3D printing jobs. Rigid, precise, and available in a huge range of colours. Easy to post-process.

✓ Excellent dimensional accuracy
✓ Widest colour selection
✓ Easy to sand and paint
✓ Biodegradable (plant-based)
✓ Crisp surface finish

Ideal for

Models, prototypes, decorative items, props, low-stress mechanical parts

Avoid for

Parts left in hot cars, direct outdoor sun exposure, high-impact applications

PETG

Best for functional parts

Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol. Tougher and more heat-resistant than PLA. The right choice when parts need to handle real-world stress.

✓ Impact and stress resistant
✓ Heat tolerant up to ~80°C
✓ Good UV and outdoor stability
✓ Slightly flexible (snap-fit friendly)
✓ Food-safe options available

Ideal for

Mechanical parts, enclosures, outdoor use, snap-fit components, electronics housings

Avoid for

Parts requiring very tight tolerances, applications needing a perfectly matte finish

TPU

Flexible & grippy

Thermoplastic Polyurethane (95A shore hardness). A rubber-like material that bends, squashes and springs back. Choose it when a part needs to grip, seal, cushion or survive being dropped.

✓ Flexible and elastic — returns to shape
✓ Absorbs shock and vibration
✓ Grippy, non-slip surface
✓ Abrasion and impact resistant
✓ Resists oils and greases

Ideal for

Gaskets and seals, bumpers and feet, grips, phone and device cases, cable strain reliefs, wearables

Avoid for

Rigid or load-bearing parts, tight tolerances, very fine detail, parts larger than 180 × 180 × 180 mm. TPU prints slowly, so it costs more than PLA or PETG.

Side-by-Side Comparison

PropertyPLAPETGTPU
RigidityHighMedium-highLow (rubbery)
Impact resistanceMediumHighExcellent
Heat tolerance~60°C~80°CModerate
Outdoor UV stabilityPoorGoodFair
FlexibilityBrittleSlightly flexibleVery flexible
Colour rangeExtensiveWideLimited
Surface finishExcellentVery goodGood (slightly soft)
Post-processingEasy (sand/paint)ModerateHard (can't sand)
Max part size330 × 320 × 325 mm330 × 320 × 325 mm180 × 180 × 180 mm
Price$$$$

Common Questions

What is the difference between PLA, PETG and TPU?

PLA is rigid, precise, and available in the most colours — best for models, prototypes, and decorative items. PETG is tougher, more heat-resistant, and better for functional parts that need to handle stress or outdoor conditions. TPU is flexible and rubber-like — it bends, squashes and springs back, so it suits parts that need to grip, seal, cushion or survive being dropped.

Which material should I use for functional parts?

PETG is generally the better choice for rigid functional parts. It handles temperatures up to ~80°C, is impact resistant, and has some flexibility. If the part needs to flex, seal or absorb impact — a gasket, bumper, grip or protective case — choose TPU. For decorative or low-stress parts, PLA works great.

When should I choose TPU?

Choose TPU when the part needs to be soft or flexible: seals and gaskets, feet and bumpers, grips and handles, phone and device cases, cable strain reliefs, watch straps and wearables, or anything that has to take repeated knocks without cracking. If the part needs to hold a precise shape under load, PLA or PETG will do better.

Why does TPU cost more, and why is the size limit smaller?

TPU has to be printed slowly so the flexible filament feeds cleanly, so each part takes several times longer on the printer, and the filament itself costs more. We print it on a dedicated direct-feed printer, which limits TPU parts to 180 × 180 × 180 mm (PLA and PETG go up to 330 × 320 × 325 mm).

Is PLA or PETG better for outdoor use?

PETG is better for outdoor use. PLA can warp or soften in direct sunlight (temperatures above ~60°C), while PETG is more UV stable and heat tolerant. TPU copes with outdoor use too, but lighter colours can yellow over time in strong sun.

Can I get my part printed in a specific colour?

Yes — we stock a wide range of colours for PLA and PETG, and a smaller selection for TPU. You can choose a colour when uploading your STL on the homepage. If you need a very specific colour, request a custom colour and we'll do our best to match it.

Ready to get a quote?

Upload your STL file and select your preferred material. Get an instant price in under 5 seconds.

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3D printing, design review and product design from our Mt Eden, Auckland workshop, delivered NZ-wide.

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