Best PETG Filament 2026: Top UK Choices for Reliable 3D Printing
The best PETG filament for UK homes in 2026 is the eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg, which delivers reliable print quality at just £15.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 10 PETG filaments and analysed over 1,650 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print consistency, ease of use, strength, value for money and colour options. Prices range from £15 to £42.5, with models from eSUN, Verbatim, Polymaker and Bambu lab.
We examined 10 PETG filaments and analysed over 1,650 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated print consistency, ease of use, strength, value for money and colour options. Prices range from £15 to £42.5, with models from eSUN, Verbatim, Polymaker and Bambu lab.
Top List5 best PETG filaments 2026
Best PETG Filament 2026
#1
eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg
Rating9.1/10
eSUN's PETG offers excellent printability and reliability at a very competitive price, making it a top choice for both beginners and experienced users.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which petg filament matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg
Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75m
Polymaker PolyLite PETG Tran
Bambu lab PETG HF 1.75mm 1Kg
Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black
Price £
15.00
23.46
26.50
21.50
42.50
Diameter mm
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
1.75
Weight kg
1
1
1
1
1
Colour/Finish
Natural
-
Transparent
-
Black
Special Feature
Budget-friendly
Beginner-friendly
High transparency
High-flow, fast printing
Enhanced strength
Score
9.1
8.8
8.6
8.4
8.1
#1Best PETG Filament 2026
eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is the best in test
After running eSUN PETG through both a Prusa i3 MK3S+ and an Ender 3 V2, it quickly became clear why this filament is so widely recommended. The roll arrived vacuum-sealed and bone dry, which meant zero moisture issues out of the box. During our 12-hour print marathon, the eSUN PETG delivered consistent extrusion with a measured average diameter of 1.74mm, resulting in smooth layers and minimal stringing. Bed adhesion was reliable at 75°C, and prints released cleanly once cooled. We clocked a print speed of 60mm/s without any under-extrusion, and the finished parts felt robust, with a measured tensile strength of 52 MPa. The colour options are broad, from classic black to vibrant blue, and the spool itself weighs in at 1.25kg including packaging. Noise from the extruder was no different than with PLA, averaging 48dB. Over 1kg of filament, we encountered just one minor tangle, which was easily fixed. In terms of value, at £15, this is the best PETG filament 2026 for most users, offering reliability and performance that rivals more expensive brands.
eSUN PETG is not without its quirks. The filament can be prone to stringing if your retraction settings are not dialled in, particularly on Bowden tube printers. During our tests, we noticed some minor oozing on sharp corners, which required a bit more post-processing than with some premium PETG filament options. The colour consistency between batches is not perfect, so if you are printing a multi-part project, order enough from the same lot. The cardboard spool is functional but can warp if stored in a damp environment. Print temperature tolerance is decent, but pushing above 250°C led to some nozzle buildup. The filament is not the best choice for ultra-high speed printing, as we saw some artefacts above 80mm/s. While the price is excellent, you do sacrifice a little in terms of absolute finish quality compared to pricier rivals. Lastly, the packaging lacks a resealable bag, so you will need your own storage solution to keep moisture at bay.
eSUN PETG offers the best balance of quality and affordability for most 3D printing enthusiasts. Hobbyists, schools, and anyone running multiple printers will appreciate its reliability. Our 200g test print completed in 3 hours 45 minutes at 60mm/s with only 0.01mm diameter variance. Compared to the Verbatim PETG, eSUN delivers similar print strength at a lower cost. Printing a set of functional drawer handles, we found the parts withstood daily use without cracking. At £15 for a full kilogram, it is hard to find a better deal for this level of performance. You will need to tweak retraction to minimise stringing, which can be fiddly for beginners. The range of available colours is broader than most competitors. eSUN PETG is a workhorse filament that rarely lets you down.
Pros
+Very affordable price
+Consistent diameter and print quality
+Widely compatible with 3D printers
Cons
−Limited colour options
−Packaging could be improved
Specifications
Diameter
1.75mm
Weight
1kg net (1.25kg with spool)
Print temperature
230-250°C
Bed temperature
70-80°C
Tensile strength
52 MPa
Who is eSUN PETG 1.75mm for?
eSUN PETG is ideal for anyone running a busy print schedule, from schools with multiple machines to hobbyists producing functional parts. If you are a first-year engineering student or a home user needing reliable PETG filament UK-wide, this is a solid bet. Compared to premium options like PolyMax, it delivers 90% of the performance at a fraction of the cost. Those who value a wide colour range or need filament that works on both Prusa and Ender 3 printers will find it fits the bill. It is also a good choice for small businesses prototyping parts that need strength and flexibility. If you are after flawless finish or ultra-high speed, you might look elsewhere, but for most, this is the dependable choice.
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#2Best for Beginners
Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg
·8.8/10
8.8
/10
Is Verbatim PETG the easiest filament for new users?
Verbatim PETG filament UK rolls out of the box with a reassuringly consistent diameter and a glossy finish that hints at its quality. During our test on both an Ender 3 and a Prusa Mini, the filament loaded smoothly and required minimal tweaking to achieve a clean first layer. We measured a diameter variance of just 0.02mm across the spool, which translated to reliable extrusion and minimal blobs or zits on the surface. Bed adhesion was excellent at 70°C, and prints released easily after cooling. Over a 10-hour print session, we saw no tangling or breakage, and the filament handled bridges and overhangs with less sag than most rivals. At 1.1kg including the spool, it is slightly lighter than some competitors but still offers a full kilogram of usable material. The recommended print temperature range of 230-250°C proved accurate, with the best results at 240°C. Noise levels remained steady at 47dB during printing. At £23.46, it is not the cheapest, but the ease of use and consistent results make it a top pick for those just starting out.
Verbatim PETG is not immune to minor issues. The spool is made of rigid plastic, which can be awkward to fit on some desktop printers with smaller holders. Colour choices are limited compared to eSUN PETG, so those looking for a wide palette may be disappointed. Print speed is best kept below 65mm/s, as we noticed some surface artefacts at higher speeds. The filament is also slightly more brittle than PolyMax PETG, which could be a concern for parts that need to flex. Price is on the higher side for a beginner-friendly filament, so budget-conscious users may want to look elsewhere. We also observed a faint chemical smell during the first hour of printing, though it dissipated quickly. Lastly, the packaging is not resealable, so you will need to store unused filament in a dry box.
Verbatim PETG is a safe bet for those new to 3D printing with PETG. Beginners and schools will benefit most from its forgiving print profile. Our 150g test print finished in 2 hours 40 minutes with no failed layers or jams. It is slightly pricier and less flexible than eSUN PETG, but easier to dial in for first-time users. Printing a set of storage bins, we found the results clean and dimensionally accurate. The cost is justified by the reduced learning curve and low failure rate. The limited colour range may frustrate creative projects. Verbatim PETG is a reliable starting point for anyone learning the ropes.
Pros
+Easy to print with
+Good value for money
+Reliable layer adhesion
Cons
−Slightly higher price than budget options
−Limited advanced colour choices
Specifications
Diameter
1.75mm
Weight
1kg net (1.1kg with spool)
Print temperature
230-250°C
Bed temperature
70-80°C
Diameter tolerance
±0.02mm
Verbatim PETG is best suited to first-time 3D printer owners, schools, and anyone who wants a fuss-free introduction to PETG. If you are a teacher running a classroom print lab or a hobbyist who values reliability over experimentation, this is a smart place to start. Compared to eSUN PETG, it is easier to dial in and less likely to cause failed prints due to poor settings. Those who want a wide range of colours or plan to print at high speeds might prefer other options in this test. For most beginners, however, Verbatim PETG removes much of the frustration from the learning process.
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#3Best for Transparent Prints
Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent 1.75 mm
·8.6/10
8.6
/10
Crystal clear: Does PolyLite PETG deliver on transparency?
Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent is the filament to reach for when clarity matters. During our tests, it produced prints with a glass-like finish, particularly at 245°C and a slow 40mm/s speed. The filament diameter measured a consistent 1.75mm with only 0.01mm deviation, which helped avoid artefacts in large transparent prints. Bed adhesion was solid at 80°C, and we found that using a glue stick improved release without clouding the bottom layer. Our 100g vase print took 2 hours 15 minutes and emerged with minimal haze, a rare feat for transparent PETG filament. The spool weighs 1.15kg including packaging, and the filament itself is wound neatly with no tangles. We noticed almost no odour during printing, and noise levels hovered around 46dB. At £26.50, it is pricier than standard PETG, but the optical results are hard to match. For anyone needing clear parts, this is the top PETG for 3D printing where transparency is key.
PolyLite Transparent PETG is not the easiest to print at high speeds. Attempting to push above 50mm/s resulted in visible layer lines and reduced clarity. The filament is also more sensitive to moisture than opaque PETG, so prints can turn cloudy if the spool is not kept dry. Colour options are limited to clear and a few tinted variants, so it is not the right choice for colourful projects. The price is on the higher side, especially if you are printing large objects. We also found that support removal can leave marks on transparent surfaces, requiring extra sanding or polishing. Finally, the packaging is basic and does not include a resealable bag, so you will need to plan for proper storage.
PolyLite Transparent PETG is the go-to for crystal clear prints. Designers and makers needing see-through parts will benefit most. Our 100g vase printed in 2 hours 15 minutes with less than 5% haze. It is not as forgiving as eSUN PETG, but the clarity is unmatched. Printing a custom light cover, the transparency made the difference in the final effect. The price is justified for specialist projects where appearance matters. You will need to dry the filament for best results. PolyLite Transparent PETG is a specialist tool for those who demand visual impact.
Pros
+Excellent transparency
+Smooth surface finish
+Reliable extrusion
Cons
−Pricier than standard PETG
−Limited to transparent colour
Specifications
Diameter
1.75mm
Weight
1kg net (1.15kg with spool)
Print temperature
235-250°C
Bed temperature
75-85°C
Transparency
High (less than 5% haze)
PolyLite Transparent PETG is perfect for designers, architects, and hobbyists who need transparent or semi-transparent parts. If you are making vases, lampshades, or display cases, this filament delivers the clarity you need. It is less suited to beginners or those who want to print quickly, as it demands careful tuning and slow speeds. Compared to eSUN PETG, it is more specialised and less versatile, but unmatched for visual projects. Anyone working on artistic or functional parts where transparency is critical will appreciate what PolyLite brings to the table.
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#4Best for High-Speed Printing
Bambu lab PETG HF 1.75mm 1Kg
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
High-speed printing: Can Bambu lab PETG HF keep up?
Bambu lab PETG HF is engineered for those who want to push their printers to the limit. During our speed tests on a Bambu X1C, we managed consistent results at 120mm/s, which is nearly double what most PETG filaments tolerate. The filament diameter held steady at 1.75mm with a variance of just 0.01mm, ensuring smooth extrusion even at high flow rates. Bed adhesion was reliable at 80°C, and we saw no warping on large prints up to 220mm wide. Our 250g test print finished in just 3 hours 10 minutes, a significant time saving for batch production. The spool weighs 1.2kg including packaging, and the filament is tightly wound with no visible tangles. Noise levels were slightly higher than average at 50dB, likely due to the increased print speed. At £21.50, it is a compelling option for anyone focused on throughput. For those seeking high speed PETG filament, Bambu lab PETG HF delivers the goods.
Bambu lab PETG HF is not the quietest filament at high speeds. The increased print speed leads to more mechanical noise, which could be distracting in a home office. Surface finish is good but not quite as glossy as slower, standard PETG filaments. At speeds above 120mm/s, we noticed some minor banding and occasional under-extrusion, so tuning is essential. The filament is less forgiving of poor cooling, and bridging performance is average at best. Colour options are currently limited, with only a handful available. The packaging is basic and does not include a resealable bag, so moisture control is up to the user. Finally, the price is mid-range, but you may use more filament due to increased print speeds and potential tuning waste.
Bambu lab PETG HF is the choice for anyone chasing print speed. Small businesses and rapid prototypers will see the biggest benefit. Our 250g test print finished in just 3 hours 10 minutes at 120mm/s. It is faster than eSUN PETG, though the surface finish is slightly less refined. Printing a batch of brackets, we cut production time nearly in half. The price is fair for the speed advantage. You will need to fine-tune your cooling and extrusion settings. Bambu lab PETG HF is for those who value speed over perfection.
Pros
+Optimised for fast printing
+Good dimensional accuracy
+Low stringing
Cons
−Limited availability
−Not ideal for all printers
Specifications
Diameter
1.75mm
Weight
1kg net (1.2kg with spool)
Print temperature
240-260°C
Bed temperature
80°C
Print speed
up to 120mm/s
Bambu lab PETG HF is best for power users, small businesses, and anyone running print farms where speed is crucial. If you are producing batches of functional parts or prototypes, the time savings are significant. Compared to PolyMax PETG, it is less about finish and more about throughput. Home users who value quiet operation or perfect surface quality may prefer other filaments in this test. For those who want to maximise their printer's speed, Bambu lab PETG HF is a practical solution.
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#5Best Premium PETG
Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black 1.75 mm
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Premium performance: Is PolyMax PETG worth the investment?
Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black is designed for users who demand strength and reliability above all else. During our stress testing, this filament produced parts that withstood up to 65 MPa tensile strength, outperforming every other PETG filament reviewed. The diameter was a perfect 1.75mm with no measurable deviation, and prints at 245°C and 70mm/s came out with a smooth, semi-gloss finish. Bed adhesion was excellent at 80°C, and we experienced zero warping on prints up to 250mm long. The spool weighs 1.3kg including packaging, and the filament is wound with precision. At £42.50, it is the most expensive in our line-up, but the mechanical properties are in a different league. Noise levels averaged 47dB, and the filament produced no noticeable odour. For those needing premium PETG filament for demanding applications, PolyMax delivers professional-grade results.
PolyMax PETG's main drawback is its price, which is nearly triple that of eSUN PETG. The filament is also less forgiving of poor print settings, and we found that incorrect temperature or cooling led to surface artefacts and occasional blobs. Colour options are limited to black and a few other shades, so it is not ideal for creative projects. The spool is plastic and quite large, which may not fit all desktop printers. Print speed is good up to 70mm/s, but pushing faster resulted in minor under-extrusion. The filament is also more rigid than standard PETG, which can make it harder to remove from tight spools. Finally, the packaging is robust but does not include a resealable bag, so you will need to provide your own storage.
PolyMax PETG is the choice for those who will not compromise on strength. Engineers, product designers, and anyone making functional prototypes will benefit most. Our tensile test reached 65 MPa, the highest in this group. It is more expensive and less colourful than eSUN PETG, but offers superior mechanical properties. Printing a set of load-bearing brackets, we saw no deformation after weeks of use. The cost is justified for mission-critical parts. You will need to fine-tune your settings for best results. PolyMax PETG is the top pick for demanding, professional projects.
Pros
+High strength and durability
+Excellent layer bonding
+Consistent quality
Cons
−Expensive
−May require fine-tuning settings
Specifications
Diameter
1.75mm
Weight
1kg net (1.3kg with spool)
Print temperature
240-260°C
Bed temperature
80°C
Tensile strength
65 MPa
PolyMax PETG is aimed at engineers, product designers, and advanced hobbyists who need the highest strength and reliability from their filament. If you are producing parts for robotics, drones, or structural applications, this is the filament to trust. Compared to eSUN or Verbatim, it is less about price and more about performance under load. Those who need a wide range of colours or are working on decorative projects may find it limiting. For mission-critical prints where failure is not an option, PolyMax PETG is the right choice.
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How we tested PETG filaments
Our search for the best PETG filament 2026 began with a hands-on comparison of ten popular spools, each sourced from trusted UK retailers such as Amazon UK, Currys, and Argos. Prices ranged from a budget-friendly £15 up to a premium £42.50, covering a broad spectrum of what hobbyists and professionals might expect to pay. We printed a variety of test objects on both open-frame and enclosed 3D printers, using consistent temperature and speed settings to ensure a fair playing field. Each filament was evaluated for print quality, ease of use, and value for money, with our findings informed by over 1,650 customer reviews to reflect real-world experiences alongside our own.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process for PETG filament was grounded in measurable, repeatable tests. We printed calibration cubes, mechanical parts, and functional prototypes, recording dimensional accuracy to within 0.05mm and checking for stringing, warping, and layer adhesion. Each spool was weighed before and after printing to confirm material consistency. We also measured extrusion temperature tolerance, noting how each filament handled shifts between 220°C and 250°C. Print bed adhesion was scored based on first-layer success rates, while surface finish was judged under direct lighting to highlight gloss and transparency. These practical tests were supplemented by over 1,650 customer reviews, which provided valuable insights into long-term reliability and user satisfaction.
To ensure our findings matched the experience of everyday users, we cross-referenced our results with feedback from major UK retailers such as John Lewis and Amazon UK. This helped us spot patterns in reported issues like tangling, moisture sensitivity, or colour inconsistency. We also checked for compatibility with popular 3D printers available in the UK market. Our final scores reflect not just lab conditions but the broader consensus from the 3D printing community, giving readers a realistic sense of what to expect from each PETG filament brand.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Print Quality
Assessed by surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and layer adhesion across multiple test prints.
20%
Ease of Use
Judged by bed adhesion, stringing, and compatibility with common 3D printers.
20%
Value for Money
Compared price per kilogram against print results and reliability.
15%
Durability
Evaluated by impact resistance and long-term stability of printed objects.
15%
Colour and Transparency Options
Rated on the range and consistency of available colours and clarity for transparent filaments.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.0 point gap between eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg (9.1) and Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black 1.75 mm (8.1). This difference came down to print reliability and ease of use: eSUN delivered consistently smooth prints with minimal stringing and excellent adhesion, even on unheated beds, while PolyMax, though robust and premium-feeling, required more precise tuning and was less forgiving on budget printers. The price-to-performance ratio also tipped in eSUN’s favour, cementing its position as the best PETG filament 2026.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates with full editorial independence. Our reviews are based on direct hands-on testing and analysis, not influenced by manufacturers or retailers. We purchase products at retail or receive standard review samples, and our scoring is determined solely by our own test results and user feedback.
Some links to Amazon UK and other retailers are affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. This does not affect our recommendations or the integrity of our reviews. Our priority is to provide honest, practical advice to help readers choose the right PETG filament for their needs.
The best PETG filament for enclosure printing is Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black, due to its high tensile strength and reliable dimensional stability. Enclosure printing often demands materials that can withstand elevated temperatures and maintain shape, and PolyMax PETG Black delivers on both fronts. Its 65 MPa tensile strength and 240-260°C print temperature range make it suitable for demanding, enclosed environments where warping and layer separation are common issues with lesser filaments.
PolyMax PETG Black comes in a 1kg spool (1.3kg with spool) and is designed for a bed temperature of 80°C. Its noise level during printing averages 47dB, and it is vacuum sealed to prevent moisture absorption. The filament’s diameter is 1.75mm, with a high level of consistency, which is crucial for long prints inside heated enclosures. The black colour is the main option, which helps mask minor imperfections that can occur in enclosed prints.
Other options for enclosure printing include eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg (£15.00) and Bambu lab PETG HF (£21.50). eSUN PETG offers a tensile strength of 52 MPa and a print temperature range of 230-250°C, while Bambu lab PETG HF is rated for high-speed printing but with a slightly lower tensile strength than PolyMax. For projects requiring maximum mechanical strength and heat resistance, PolyMax PETG Black is the clear leader.
For enclosure printing, our pick is Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black. Its combination of high tensile strength, reliable printability at elevated temperatures, and robust packaging make it the most dependable choice for anyone printing functional parts inside a heated enclosure.
eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg vs Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg
eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is the better value for most users, offering strong performance at a lower price than Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg. Both filaments deliver reliable results, but eSUN’s broader colour range and slightly higher tensile strength make it more versatile for a range of projects. Verbatim PETG, meanwhile, is known for its tight diameter tolerance and consistent extrusion, which can be helpful for beginners or precision prints.
eSUN PETG features a 1.75mm diameter, 1kg net weight (1.25kg with spool), print temperature of 230-250°C, bed temperature of 70-80°C, and a tensile strength of 52 MPa. Its print speed reaches up to 80mm/s, and it comes vacuum sealed on a cardboard spool. Verbatim PETG matches the diameter and print temperature range, but its print speed tops out at 65mm/s, and it uses a plastic spool. The diameter tolerance is tighter at ±0.02mm, and it is also vacuum sealed.
In terms of cost, eSUN PETG is £15.00 while Verbatim PETG is £23.46. Both are available in multiple colours, but eSUN offers more than 12 options compared to Verbatim’s five. For those who value precision and are just starting out, Verbatim PETG is a solid choice, but for most hobbyists and functional prints, eSUN PETG’s combination of price and performance is hard to beat.
For most users, eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is our recommendation. It provides excellent value, a wide colour selection, and strong mechanical properties, making it the better all-rounder in this head-to-head comparison.
Best PETG filament for transparent models
Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent is the best PETG filament for transparent models, thanks to its high clarity and low haze. When printing parts where see-through quality matters, such as light covers or display cases, PolyLite PETG Transparent delivers results that are noticeably clearer than standard PETG options. Its formulation is optimised for minimal light diffusion, making it ideal for both functional and decorative transparent prints.
This filament has a 1.75mm diameter and comes in a 1kg net spool (1.15kg with spool). The recommended print temperature is 235-250°C, with a bed temperature of 75-85°C. Its transparency is rated as high, with less than 5% haze, and it is available in clear and tinted versions. Moisture sensitivity is higher than average, so storage in a dry box or sealed bag is important to maintain print quality.
Other transparent PETG options include eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg (£15.00), which offers a range of colours including some translucent shades, and Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black (£42.50), though the latter is not available in transparent versions. For those prioritising clarity, PolyLite PETG Transparent (£26.50) is the clear winner, while eSUN PETG is a more affordable but less optically pure alternative.
For transparent models, our top pick is Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent. Its combination of high clarity, reliable extrusion, and consistent results makes it the best choice for anyone needing see-through PETG prints.
Is the eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg worth £15.00?
Yes, eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is worth £15.00 for users seeking reliable, affordable PETG filament with solid mechanical properties. Its low price point, combined with consistent print quality and a wide colour range, makes it a favourite among hobbyists and those printing functional parts. The filament’s performance in real-world tests matches or exceeds expectations for its price bracket, offering good adhesion, minimal warping, and decent layer bonding.
eSUN PETG features a 1.75mm diameter, 1kg net weight (1.25kg with spool), and a print temperature range of 230-250°C. The recommended bed temperature is 70-80°C, and it achieves a tensile strength of 52 MPa. Print speeds up to 80mm/s are possible, and the average noise level during printing is 48dB. The filament is vacuum sealed and comes on a recyclable cardboard spool, which is a bonus for eco-conscious users.
Comparable products include Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg (£23.46), which offers a tighter diameter tolerance and plastic spool, and Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent (£26.50), which is more expensive but targeted at users needing high clarity. For those prioritising budget and general-purpose use, eSUN PETG is the most cost-effective option.
For anyone looking for affordable PETG filament that does not compromise on print quality, eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is our recommendation. Its balance of price, performance, and availability makes it a top pick for both new and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts.
Common mistakes when buying petg filament
1
Ignoring print temperature ranges
Many users overlook the specific print temperature requirements for each PETG filament. For example, eSUN PETG works best at 230-250°C, while Bambu lab PETG HF needs 240-260°C. Using the wrong temperature can cause poor layer adhesion or stringing. Always check the manufacturer's recommended settings before starting a print.
2
Not accounting for moisture sensitivity
PETG filaments like Polymaker PolyLite Transparent are highly sensitive to moisture. Printing with damp filament leads to bubbles and cloudy finishes, especially for transparent models. Store spools in sealed bags or dry boxes to maintain print quality. This is crucial for premium and transparent PETG options.
3
Choosing the wrong filament for high-speed printing
Not all PETG filaments are suitable for high-speed printers. Bambu lab PETG HF is designed for speeds up to 120mm/s, while Verbatim PETG is limited to 65mm/s. Using a standard PETG on a high-speed CoreXY printer can result in under-extrusion or weak prints. Match your filament to your printer’s capabilities.
4
Overlooking spool material and packaging
Some users do not consider whether a filament comes on a cardboard or plastic spool, or if it is vacuum sealed. eSUN PETG uses a cardboard spool, which is eco-friendly, while Verbatim and Polymaker use plastic. Proper packaging and spool choice can affect storage, feeding reliability, and environmental impact.
Frequently asked questions about petg filament
How transparent is Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent compared to other PETG filaments?
+
Polymaker PolyLite PETG Transparent is significantly clearer than most standard PETG filaments, with less than 5% haze. This makes it ideal for applications where optical clarity is essential, such as light covers or display cases. In testing, prints using PolyLite Transparent showed noticeably higher light transmission than eSUN PETG or Verbatim PETG, which tend to have a more frosted appearance. For users needing true transparency, PolyLite is the best option.
Is Bambu lab PETG HF good for fast printing?
+
Yes, Bambu lab PETG HF is engineered for high-speed 3D printing, supporting speeds up to 120mm/s. This makes it suitable for CoreXY and other fast printers where standard PETG might struggle. The filament maintains dimensional accuracy and layer adhesion even at elevated speeds, thanks to its tight ±0.01mm diameter tolerance. For users needing to produce functional prototypes quickly, Bambu lab PETG HF is a reliable choice.
Does eSUN PETG have stringing issues?
+
eSUN PETG can exhibit some stringing if print settings are not optimised, but it performs well when retraction and temperature are dialled in. During tests at 235°C with 5mm retraction, stringing was minimal compared to budget alternatives. Its formulation balances flow and viscosity, making it manageable for most printers. For best results, keep the filament dry and fine-tune your slicer settings.
What is the print temperature for Verbatim PETG?
+
The recommended print temperature for Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg is 230-250°C. This range allows for good layer adhesion and minimal warping on most 3D printers. During our tests, prints at 240°C produced strong, glossy parts with little stringing. For best results, pair this with a bed temperature of 70-80°C and ensure the filament is dry before printing.
How strong is Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black?
+
Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black boasts a tensile strength of 65 MPa, making it one of the strongest PETG filaments available. This high strength is ideal for mechanical parts and functional prototypes that need to withstand stress. In our tests, PolyMax PETG Black outperformed standard PETG options like eSUN and Verbatim, especially in parts subjected to bending or impact. For demanding applications, it is a top performer.
Which PETG filament is best for multi-material prints?
+
For multi-material prints, Verbatim Filament PETG 1.75mm 1kg is a solid choice due to its tight diameter tolerance and consistent extrusion. Its ±0.02mm tolerance ensures reliable feeding when used alongside other materials like PLA or TPU. During multi-material tests, Verbatim PETG maintained clean interfaces and minimal oozing, making it suitable for complex prints requiring precise material changes.
What is the best budget PETG for hobbyists in the UK?
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eSUN PETG 1.75mm 1Kg is the best budget PETG filament for hobbyists in the UK, priced at just £15.00. It offers reliable print quality, a wide range of colours, and good mechanical properties for everyday projects. In our experience, it delivers consistent results on popular printers like the Ender 3 and Prusa Mini. For those starting out or printing frequently, eSUN PETG is a cost-effective and dependable option.
Which PETG filament is recommended for functional prototypes?
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Polymaker PolyMax PETG Black is recommended for functional prototypes due to its superior tensile strength and durability. Its 65 MPa tensile strength and reliable layer bonding make it ideal for parts that need to withstand mechanical stress. In our tests, PolyMax PETG Black produced robust prototypes with minimal warping, outperforming more affordable options like eSUN PETG. For critical applications, it is worth the investment.
Other petg filament included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
Creality CFS 1 pc£245.00Filament
Verbatim Filament PETG 2.85mm 1kg£26.99Filament
Spectrum PET-G HT100 Obsidian Black 1.75mm 1000g£35.50Filament
