Strength has two faces, and PLA and PLA+ win different ones. PLA+ absorbs impact that snaps PLA. PLA holds its shape under a steady load, until it fails suddenly.
How they compare
The table splits strength into its parts. PLA+ leads on impact and toughness. PLA leads on rigidity.
| Property | PLA+ | PLA |
|---|---|---|
| Impact resistance | Medium | Low |
| Toughness | Medium | Low |
| Rigidity | Medium | High |
| Brittleness | Medium | High |
| Nozzle temperature | 210 to 230 °C | 200 to 220 °C |
| Best for strength | Knocks and drops | Steady loads |
Why PLA+ wins impact
PLA+ bends where PLA snaps. The eSUN PLA+ datasheet lists an IZOD impact of 5.5 kJ/m² in the X-Y direction. That energy absorption is why PLA+ survives drops and knocks that crack standard PLA.
Why PLA wins rigidity
PLA is more rigid, so it deflects less under a steady load. That helps for frames and jigs that must hold a shape. The trade is brittleness: when PLA finally fails, it fails suddenly.
Frequently asked
Is PLA+ stronger than PLA?
What is the impact strength of PLA+?
Is PLA more rigid than PLA+?
Which is stronger for a bracket?
For the impact numbers, read PLA+ impact resistance. For the broader trade, see PLA versus PLA+ or PLA+ versus PLA toughness.
Related guides
Related
Sources & methodology
4 citations · reviewed 2026-07-09- 01eSUN PLA+ Technical Data Sheetaccessed 2026-07-06Tier 1
- 02Prusament PLA Technical Datasheetaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1
- 03All3DP PLA+ Filaments Buyer's Guideaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 2
- 04Polymaker PolyLite PLA TDSaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1