Quick Answer
Polymaker PolyMax PLA is the best PLA+ filament for 2025. It offers 9x the impact resistance of standard PLA while maintaining easy printability. For budget buyers, Overture PLA Pro delivers 80% of the strength at half the price.
What is PLA+ Filament?
PLA+ (also known as PLA Pro, PLA Plus, or Tough PLA) is an enhanced version of standard PLA that offers significantly improved mechanical properties. Through proprietary additives and modified polymer chains, PLA+ provides better impact resistance, layer adhesion, and overall durability.
In 2025, the best PLA+ filament options have become even more refined, with formulations that rival PETG for functional parts while retaining PLA's easy printability. Whether you're creating tool handles, mechanical parts, or durable prototypes, PLA+ is the ideal material. All of our top picks are readily available in the US with competitive pricing and fast domestic shipping.
TL;DR — Quick Summary
Polymaker PolyMax PLA wins for best overall PLA+ in 2025.
- 1Best Overall: Polymaker PolyMax PLA
- 2Best Value: Overture PLA Pro ($19.99/kg)
- 3Budget Pick: SUNLU PLA+ ($14.99/kg)
- 4Key Benefit: 3-9x impact resistance of standard PLA
What is PLA+?
PLA+ An enhanced version of PLA (Polylactic Acid) modified with impact modifiers and additives to increase toughness, layer adhesion, and heat resistance. Also called PLA Pro, Tough PLA, or PLA Plus.
Tough PLA vs PETG Comparison
Not sure whether to choose PLA+ or PETG? Our detailed comparison helps you decide based on your specific project needs.
Top 5 PLA+ Filaments for 2025
1. Polymaker PolyMax PLA
$29.99Polymaker PolyMax PLA is the gold standard for PLA+ filaments. It offers 9x the impact resistance of regular PLA while maintaining easy printability. Perfect for functional parts and prototypes.
Pros
- 9x impact resistance of PLA
- Excellent layer adhesion
- Low warping
- Engineering-grade strength
- Ships from US warehouse
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Requires dry storage
Specifications
2. Overture PLA Pro
$19.99Overture PLA Pro delivers 80% of premium PLA+ performance at half the price. Each spool includes a free build surface and offers reliable results for functional prints.
Pros
- Great value
- Build surface included
- Consistent quality
- Good strength
Cons
- Less impact resistant than PolyMax
- Limited colors
Specifications
3. eSUN PLA+
$16.99eSUN PLA+ offers excellent value with improved toughness over standard PLA. Available in dozens of colors, it's perfect for functional prints on a budget.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Wide color selection
- Good toughness
- Easy printing
Cons
- Slightly more stringing
- Needs tuning
Specifications
4. Prusament PLA
$24.99Prusament PLA offers the tightest diameter tolerances in the industry (±0.02mm). While not marketed as PLA+, its enhanced formulation provides superior mechanical properties.
Pros
- Exceptional consistency
- Tight tolerances
- Beautiful finish
- Engineering quality
Cons
- Limited availability
- Higher price
Specifications
5. SUNLU PLA+
$14.99SUNLU PLA+ is the budget king, offering improved strength over standard PLA at rock-bottom prices. Great for users who print frequently and need functional parts.
Pros
- Most affordable
- Vacuum sealed
- Decent strength
- Good color range
Cons
- Lower impact resistance
- Occasional inconsistencies
Specifications
Complete Filament Guide
Explore our comprehensive guide covering all filament types including PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, and specialty materials.
Optimal Print Settings for PLA+
PLA+ prints similarly to standard PLA but benefits from slightly higher temperatures to maximize layer adhesion and strength:
Recommended Settings
Temperature
- • Nozzle: 205-225°C
- • Bed: 50-60°C
- • Enclosure: Not required
Speed & Cooling
- • Print Speed: 50-80mm/s
- • Part Cooling: 100% after layer 2
- • Retraction: Same as PLA
What's the Difference Between PLA and PLA+?
| Property | Standard PLA | PLA+ |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Resistance | Low (brittle) | High (3-9x better) |
| Layer Adhesion | Good | Excellent |
| Heat Resistance | ~55°C | ~60-65°C |
| Print Temperature | 190-210°C | 205-225°C |
| Price | $15-20/kg | $17-30/kg |
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PLA and PLA+?
PLA+ (also called PLA Pro or Tough PLA) has enhanced impact resistance, better layer adhesion, and improved heat resistance compared to standard PLA. It's modified with additives that make it 3-9x more impact resistant while maintaining easy printability.
Is PLA+ stronger than PETG?
Premium PLA+ like Polymaker PolyMax has comparable impact resistance to PETG, but PETG still has better heat resistance (80°C vs 60°C) and chemical resistance. PLA+ is easier to print and has less stringing than PETG.
What temperature should I print PLA+ at?
Most PLA+ filaments print best between 205-225°C for the nozzle and 50-60°C for the bed. This is slightly higher than standard PLA (190-210°C). Check your specific brand's recommendations as they vary.
Can PLA+ be used outdoors?
PLA+ is not recommended for long-term outdoor use. While more durable than standard PLA, it still degrades under UV exposure and can warp in temperatures above 60°C. For outdoor applications, use ASA or PETG instead.
Is PLA+ food safe?
PLA+ is not certified food safe due to the additives used to enhance its properties. The layer lines in FDM prints also harbor bacteria. For food-safe applications, use food-grade PETG with food-safe coatings.
Polymaker Filament Guide
Learn more about Polymaker's complete filament lineup including PolyMax, PolyLite, and PolyTerra.
Conclusion: Which PLA+ Should You Buy?
For maximum strength and durability, Polymaker PolyMax PLA is the clear winner. Its 9x impact resistance improvement over standard PLA makes it ideal for functional parts and prototypes.
For best value, Overture PLA Pro delivers impressive strength at half the price. And for those on a tight budget, SUNLU PLA+ offers solid improvements over standard PLA at rock-bottom prices. Polymaker ships PolyMax directly from their United States warehouse, so most US orders arrive within a few business days.
Last Updated: January 13, 2025 | Prices Current | In Stock Available
