Material comparison

PETG vs ABS: which one?

Durable, resistant to chemicals and water; ideal for everyday use. A tough engineering plastic that resists impact and heat. So which one is right for your project? Compare the values, strengths and weaknesses side by side.

Sample part made from PETGMost popular

PETG

Polyethylene terephthalate glycol

PETG is made from heat-treated PET plastic. It is known for its durability, transparency, impact and chemical resistance. Thanks to its scratch resistance, it is one of the most balanced choices for functional parts.

Strength3
Stiffness3
Toughness / impact4
Heat resistance2
Chemical resistance4
UV / outdoor3
Detail and surface3
Ease of production5
PETG page →
Sample part made from ABSMost popular

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS+)

ABS is strong, durable and scratch resistant. These properties make it a popular choice for both prototypes and end products in automotive parts, electronic housings and consumer goods.

Strength3
Stiffness3
Toughness / impact4
Heat resistance3
Chemical resistance3
UV / outdoor2
Detail and surface3
Ease of production3
ABS page →

Values

Technical comparison

PropertyPETGABS
Density1.27 g/cm³1.06 g/cm³
Tensile strength52 MPa40 MPa
Elongation at break83 %30 %
Modulus (stiffness)1.07 GPa1.2 GPa
Heat deflection (0.45 MPa)64 °C73 °C
  • PETG has higher tensile strength: 52.2 MPa, versus 40 MPa for ABS.
  • ABS is more heat resistant: 73 °C, versus 64 °C for PETG.
  • PETG stretches further before breaking: 83 %, versus 30 % for ABS.
  • ABS is stiffer: 1.203 GPa, versus 1.073 GPa for PETG.

Decision

Which one, and when?

Choose PETG if…

  • Ease of production matters more
  • Chemical resistance matters more
  • UV / outdoor matters more
  • you are making functional parts and brackets
  • you are making enclosures and boxes
  • you are making parts working in humid environments

Choose ABS if…

  • Heat resistance matters more
  • you are making automotive parts
  • you are making electronic housings
  • you are making toys and consumer products

Good to know

PETG vs ABS: frequently asked questions

Which is stronger: PETG or ABS?

PETG has higher tensile strength: 52.2 MPa, versus 40 MPa for ABS.

Which is more heat resistant: PETG or ABS?

ABS is more heat resistant: 73 °C, versus 64 °C for PETG.

Which is easier to produce?

PETG is usually easier to produce; it needs less special equipment and tuning.

Which is more economical?

Price levels are similar; the exact price depends on the part and quantity.

Which one is right for your part?

Tell us the operating conditions; let's decide together which of the two fits, or find a better alternative.