Material comparison

PETG vs ASA: which one?

Durable, resistant to chemicals and water; ideal for everyday use. Resists sun, weather and chemicals; the material for outdoor use. 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 ASAMost popular

ASA

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate

ASA has properties similar to ABS but is far more resistant to UV, weather and chemicals. It does not yellow or fade in sunlight and gives a smooth surface finish.

Strength3
Stiffness3
Toughness / impact4
Heat resistance3
Chemical resistance4
UV / outdoor5
Detail and surface3
Ease of production3
ASA page →

Values

Technical comparison

PropertyPETGASA
Density1.27 g/cm³1.07 g/cm³
Tensile strength52 MPa50 MPa
Elongation at break83 %30 %
Modulus (stiffness)1.07 GPa1.85 GPa
Heat deflection (0.45 MPa)64 °C88 °C
  • In terms of tensile strength, PETG (52.2 MPa) and ASA (50 MPa) are close.
  • ASA is more heat resistant: 88 °C, versus 64 °C for PETG.
  • PETG stretches further before breaking: 83 %, versus 30 % for ASA.
  • ASA is stiffer: 1.849 GPa, versus 1.073 GPa for PETG.

Decision

Which one, and when?

Choose PETG if…

  • Ease of production matters more
  • you are making functional parts and brackets
  • you are making enclosures and boxes
  • you are making parts working in humid environments

Choose ASA if…

  • UV / outdoor matters more
  • Heat resistance matters more
  • you are making exterior and garden products
  • you are making signage and accessories
  • you are making automotive exterior parts

Good to know

PETG vs ASA: frequently asked questions

Which is stronger: PETG or ASA?

In terms of tensile strength, PETG (52.2 MPa) and ASA (50 MPa) are close.

Which is more heat resistant: PETG or ASA?

ASA is more heat resistant: 88 °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?

In general, PETG is more economical. The exact price is set in the quotation based on part size, quantity and technology.

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.