Is 3D-Fuel Tough Pro PLA+ Really Worth The Cost?

It does depend on what you're comparing it to. The 3D-Fuel Tough Pro PLA+ is not just another PLA+ product. We know that there are plenty of those out on the market in the $25/kg range.

The Tough Pro PLA+ uses an impact modifier that lends it 4.3x the impact toughness of other PLA materials according to our ASTM D256 impact testing. Part of this toughness includes superb layer to layer adhesion. It also has improved heat resistance and can be annealed for even further improvements to heat resistance and toughness.

When you compare us to other mechanically similar materials like Push Plastic's High Heat + Toughness PLA (available in only 6 colors for $39.99/kg) and Matterhackers Pro Series Tough PLA (available in only a dozen colors for $57/kg), 3D-Fuel Tough Pro PLA+ is an absolute bargain and with a much broader color selection.

Tough Pro PLA+ is available in 40(!) colors for $39/kg with qty discounts starting at as few as 3 spools.

We manufacture our filaments in an ITAR-registered, ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified production facility in Austin, TX and pay our workers a very competitive wage with full benefits in a fully climate-controlled environment.

Why do these certifications matter?

ITAR - If you're doing any 3D printing or fabrication work for the US Government, you'll want your supply chain to be ITAR-compliant. According to the U.S. Government, all manufacturers, exporters, and brokers of defense articles, defense services, or related technical data must be ITAR compliant. Therefore, more companies are requiring their supply chain members to be ITAR compliant as well.

ISO9001:2015 - “ISO 9001 Certified” means an organization has met the requirements in ISO 9001, which defines an ISO 9001 Quality Management System. This is important for any quality-minded businesses or individuals.

AS9100D - Similar to ISO 9001, AS9100D is a quality management system requirement and specifies additional aviation, space, and defense industry. If you are involved in any of these industries, this matters to you. There are not many filament manufacturing facilities that hold this certification.

Quality Control - Our quality control measures include 3-axis laser systems, lump and neckdown detectors, in-line colorimeters, and a full QC process with moisture testing done on every production batch.

Supply Chain Resilience

Our raw materials are nearly all US-based and our entire support staff is located in the United States so we can quickly and clearly answer any product or 3D printing-related questions.

Can you find basic 3D printing materials cheaper elsewhere? Absolutely. But you will not find a more comprehensive 3D printing materials provider to help empower your 3D printing experience anywhere else.

If you value that, then our products and you will be a good fit. We're not for everyone, but if you value any of those things that I just talked about, I think we might just be for you.