PETG Filament vs Nylon: Which One to Choose?

While PETG filament vs nylon are strong and tough thermoplastic materials available for 3D printing, each possesses unique advantages and disadvantages depending on the end application. So whether you are looking for flexibility, chemical resistance, or ease of printing, knowing the difference between PETG and nylon filament will set you on the right path. 

Industrial Applications

Both nylon and PETG filaments have found use in numerous industries where their mechanical properties serve their purposes well.

• PETG is a modified form of PET, FDA-approved for food contact, and it is widely used in food packaging, water bottles, and medical tools, as it can withstand sterilization processes. 
• Nylon is an extremely versatile material suitable for textiles, automotive components, and industrial applications due to its strength and heat resistance. Parts that require toughness and flexibility are where nylon shines.

Material Properties Comparison PETG Filament vs Nylon

Strength

When comparing tensile strength, there is a similarity in mechanical properties of nylon and PETG filament. The tensile strength of standard PETG is about 50 MPa, a little higher than nylon, which falls in the range of 40-45 MPa. Another consideration to keep in mind is that reinforced blends of nylon can trump PETG in strength.

Durability

Nylon attracts a considerable amount of durability because of its semi-crystalline structure, which allows it to bear mechanical abuse and environmental stress properly. PETG, by contrast, is durable but not quite as resistant to repeated impact such as nylon.

Flexibility

The results of flexural modulus testing show nylon filament has superior flexibility to PETG. The flexural modulus for nylon is 450,000 psi versus 300,000 psi for PETG, making nylon more appropriate for applications that require impact resistance. 

Hygroscopicity (Moisture Absorption)

Both nylon and PETG absorb moisture, although nylon is much more hygroscopic. If not stored properly, simply laying nylon out for 48 hours will allow it to absorb sufficient moisture to spoil prints. PETG is not as touchy as nylon but, when stored, should be kept in an airtight container along with some desiccant. 

Odor: Safety

These materials do not have a strong smell, but caprolactam fumes from nylon can irritate. Caprolactam is considered non-toxic, but it’s best practice to print in a well-ventilated area when using nylon.

Printing Ease: PETG vs Nylon Filament

Printing Temperature

• PETG prints at temperatures of 220-250°C, whereas the heated bed is optional between 50-75°C. 
• Nylon requires printing temperatures of 240-260°C and a heated bed at 60-80°C. It is suggested to use an all-metal hotend for nylon.

Bed Adhesion and Warping PETG Filament vs Nylon

PETG is easy to handle with slight warping, and a glue stick or blue painter’s tape would usually suffice for adhesion. In contrast, nylon warps considerably and a heated bed, adhesives, or even enclosure, is suggested to counteract the shrinking.

Support & Post-Processing

Both provide support utilizing HIPS support material, which dissolves in limonene. That said, manual support removal using nylon poses some difficulties due to its toughness. In contrast, post-processing of PETG presents no trouble, whereas nylon shows high wear resistance.

Cost Comparison

PETG is cheaper, with a price ranging from $20 to $30 per kilogram. Nylon is usually priced between $30 and $60 per kg, while premium blends may run up to $80 per kg.

Which Filament is the Better One? PETG Filament vs Nylon?

Considering ease of printing and price, PETG is better, being suitable for beginners and general-use parts. For applications, however, requiring high strength, impact resistance, and heat resistance, nylon yields superior results. The final decision between nylon versus PETG is contingent solely on the specific needs of your job and your 3D printing experience.