The short answerPLA+ is the tougher PLA.

The best PLA+ filament is an upgraded PLA blend that prints almost as easily but resists impact and cracking. The eSUN and SUNLU datasheets put its nozzle at 210 to 230 °C. Pick PLA+ when PLA is too brittle but PETG is too much trouble.

What makes a PLA+ good

PLA+ is not one formula. It is a family of PLA blends tuned for toughness, each from a different maker. The eSUN PLA+ datasheet lists a higher impact rating than standard PLA, and the SUNLU PLA+ sheet lists a tensile strength of 58 MPa. A good PLA+ prints clean, resists snapping, and holds detail.

Settings at a glance

PLA+ starting settings
SettingRecommendedWhy
Nozzle temperature210 to 230 °CeSUN 210 to 230, SUNLU 205 to 215.
Bed temperature50 to 60 °CeSUN 45 to 60, SUNLU 50 to 60.

Run the part cooling fan at full speed, like standard PLA. Keep the print speed near 40 to 60 mm/s for the best detail.

PLA+ compared

PLA+ versus PLA and PETG
PropertyPLA+PLAPETG
ToughnessMediumLowHigh
Impact resistanceMediumLowHigh
Ease of printEasyEasyMedium
Nozzle temperature210 to 230 °C200 to 220 °C240 to 260 °C
BrittlenessMediumHighLow
Best forTougher modelsDisplay modelsFunctional parts
Green marks the category leader. PLA+ sits between PLA and PETG.

Common PLA+ problems

PLA+ problems and fixes
Likely causeFixSeverity
Brittle printsDry the filament at 50 °C for 8 hoursmd
StringingDrop the nozzle 5 °C and add retractionlo
Poor first layerRaise the bed to 60 °C and clean the sheetmd
Weak layersRaise the nozzle toward 230 °Clo

Key takeaways

  • PLA+ prints at 210 to 230 °C with a 50 to 60 °C bed.
  • It resists impact and cracking better than standard PLA.
  • Dry PLA+ at 50 °C for 8 hours for the toughest prints.
  • Pick PLA+ when PLA is too brittle but PETG is too much work.

Frequently asked

What is the best PLA+ filament?
A PLA+ that prints clean, resists snapping, and matches its datasheet. eSUN and SUNLU publish TDS sheets with impact and tensile numbers, which is a good sign.
Is PLA+ better than PLA?
For tougher parts, yes. PLA+ resists impact and cracking better than standard PLA, and it prints almost as easily.
Does PLA+ print like PLA?
Almost. PLA+ runs a little hotter, around 210 to 230 °C, but it needs no heated chamber and uses full part cooling.
Is PLA+ worth the extra cost?
For functional or handled parts, yes. For pure display models, standard PLA is fine and cheaper.

To learn what PLA+ is, read what is PLA+. For functional parts, see PLA+ for functional parts. The PLA versus PLA+ comparison breaks down the trade.

Related guides

Related

More in this area

Sources & methodology

4 citations · reviewed 2026-07-09
  1. 01SUNLU PLA+ Technical Data Sheetaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1
  2. 02eSUN PLA+ Technical Data Sheetaccessed 2026-07-06Tier 1
  3. 03All3DP PLA+ Filaments Buyer's Guideaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 2
  4. 04Prusament PLA Technical Datasheetaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1
How we vetted this: every claim traces to a tiered source, Tier 1 (manufacturer, slicer, standards) first. Read the full sourcing and conflict-of-interest policy.