Best Materials for Outdoor 3D Printing (PLA vs ABS vs ASA Explained)

Not all 3D printed materials are created equal — especially for outdoor use.

If you’re planning to use 3D printed items outside, choosing the right material is critical.

At TML Fun Creations, we primarily use ASA and ABS for outdoor products because of their durability.

☀️ PLA (Not Recommended Outdoors)

PLA is easy to print and looks great, but it can warp or degrade in heat and sunlight. It’s best for indoor use only.

🔥 ABS (Good for Outdoor Use)

ABS is stronger and more heat-resistant than PLA. It performs well outdoors but can still degrade over long-term UV exposure.

🌤 ASA (Best for Outdoor Use)

ASA is specifically designed for outdoor environments. It has excellent UV resistance, meaning it won’t fade or break down in sunlight.

💧 Weather Resistance

ASA and ABS are both resistant to moisture, making them ideal for outdoor camera housings and planters.

🛠 What We Use

For indoor use, our housings are typically printed in PLA, giving you a smooth finish and a wide range of color options.

For outdoor setups, we use ABS or ASA depending on the color and application. These materials are designed to better handle heat, sun exposure, and changing weather conditions.

If you’re unsure what material is best for your project, we’re happy to help.

👉 Contact us for custom outdoor 3D printed designs. tmlfuncreations.com

TML Fun Creations is a U.S.-based 3D printing shop specializing in custom camera housings, planters, and unique décor. All designs are tested for real-world use and printed in durable materials like ASA, ABS, and PLA.

Proudly designed and 3D printed in Ravensdale, Washington, USA.