The short answerPLA+ absorbs impact that snaps PLA.
PLA+ resists impact far better than standard PLA. The eSUN PLA+ datasheet lists an IZOD impact of 5.5 kJ/m² in the X-Y direction. That is the main reason to pick PLA+ over PLA for parts that get knocked.
What impact resistance means here
Impact resistance is the energy a material absorbs before it breaks. Standard PLA is rigid, so it stores little energy and snaps under a sharp hit. PLA+ bends, so it spreads the energy and survives the same hit. The gain shows up in dropped parts, pressed clips, and any fitting that takes a knock.
The numbers
IZOD impact (X-Y)
5.5kJ/m²
Per eSUN PLA+ TDS, GB/T 1843.
IZOD impact (Z)
2.51kJ/m²
Per eSUN PLA+ TDS.
Tensile strength
53 to 58MPa
eSUN 53, SUNLU 58.
Glass transition
61°C
Per SUNLU PLA+ TDS.
PLA+ versus PLA and PETG for impact
| Property | PLA+ | PLA | PETG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impact resistance | Medium | Low | High |
| Brittleness | Low | High | Low |
| Tensile strength | 53 to 58 MPa | Lower | 46 MPa |
| Print ease | Easy | Easy | Medium |
| Heat limit | Low | Low | Medium |
| Best for impact | Light knocks | Display | Real impact |
Key takeaways
- PLA+ IZOD impact is 5.5 kJ/m² in X-Y, per eSUN.
- PLA+ bends where standard PLA snaps.
- Z-axis impact is much lower; orient parts to load across layers.
- For real impact, PETG still beats PLA+.
Frequently asked
Is PLA+ more impact resistant than PLA?
What is the IZOD impact of PLA+?
Is PLA+ tougher than PETG?
How do I get the most impact strength from PLA+?
For the broader value case, read is PLA+ worth it. For functional parts, see PLA+ for functional parts. The strongest filament roundup ranks materials by strength.
Related guides
Related
Sources & methodology
4 citations · reviewed 2026-07-09- 01eSUN PLA+ Technical Data Sheetaccessed 2026-07-06Tier 1
- 02SUNLU PLA+ Technical Data Sheetaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1
- 03Prusament PLA Technical Datasheetaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 1
- 04All3DP PLA+ Filaments Buyer's Guideaccessed 2026-06-29Tier 2