Choosing between ABS and Polycarbonate? Here is how they stack up on the properties that matter, plus a clear pick for each situation. ABS: ABS warps badly without an enclosure and needs ventilation because of fumes. Polycarbonate: Polycarbonate is one of the strongest filaments but needs high temps and an all-metal hotend.
Short answer: Polycarbonate wins on more categories overall (4 of 6), but the right choice depends on the part — see the recommendations below.
Head-to-head
Property profile overlaid
ABSPolycarbonate
The larger the shape on an axis, the stronger that material is on that property. Where one shape sits outside the other, that material wins that trait.
| Property | ABS | Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | 70 | 95 |
| Heat resistance | 75 | 95 |
| Flexibility | 35 | 45 |
| Durability | 80 | 95 |
| Ease of printing | 40 | 25 |
| Detail / finish | 65 | 60 |
Print settings compared
| Setting | ABS | Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Hotend | 245°C (230–255) | 275°C (260–300) |
| Bed | 100°C | 110°C |
| Speed | 50 mm/s | 35 mm/s |
| Enclosure | Recommended | Recommended |
| Nozzle | Brass OK | Brass OK |
| Difficulty | Advanced | Advanced |
| Typical price / kg | ~$22 | ~$50 |
Which should you pick?
You are a beginner or need clean, easy prints
Pick ABS
Pick ABS
The part will live outdoors or get hot
Pick Polycarbonate
Pick Polycarbonate
The part must survive drops and stress
Pick Polycarbonate
Pick Polycarbonate
You need the part to flex or absorb shock
Pick Polycarbonate
Pick Polycarbonate
Reviewed 2026-08-18. Scores are relative guidance, not lab data.