ABS settings for the Prusa MK4
Possible with tweaks
These are tuned starting settings for printing ABS on the Prusa MK4. The Prusa MK4 has a direct-drive extruder and an all-metal hotend, so we set the hotend to 245°C and the bed to 100°C. ABS warps badly without an enclosure and needs ventilation because of fumes.
245°C
Hotend
100°C
Bed
70 mm/s
Speed
0%
Part fan
Recommended ABS profile
| Hotend temperature | 245°C (tower 230–255°C) |
| Bed temperature | 100°C |
| Print speed | 70 mm/s |
| Retraction | 1 mm (direct drive) |
| Part cooling fan | 0% |
| Bed adhesion | Needs hot bed + enclosure; ABS slurry or glue helps. |
| Nozzle | Brass 0.4 mm is fine |
| Difficulty | Advanced |
⚠️ ABS warps without an enclosure and the Prusa MK4 is open-frame. Block drafts, raise the bed temp, and add a brim; for tall parts an enclosure is strongly recommended.
💡 Best uses for ABS: automotive, enclosures, heat-resistant parts.
FAQ
- What temperature should I print ABS on the Prusa MK4?
- Start at 245°C for the hotend and 100°C for the bed, then run a temperature tower across 230–255°C to dial in your exact filament brand.
- What print speed works for ABS on this printer?
- Around 70 mm/s is a safe starting point on the Prusa MK4. This printer can go faster once the profile is tuned, but start conservative for clean walls.
- What retraction should I use?
- Use about 1 mm of retraction (direct drive needs very little). If you see stringing with ABS, raise retraction speed before distance and dry the filament.
- Do I need an enclosure for ABS on the Prusa MK4?
- Yes — ABS really wants an enclosure and the Prusa MK4 is open, so expect warping on large parts without one.