Softest TPU Filament: Gentle and Flexible 3D Printing Materials
Note: We have researched 13 TPU filaments for you.
Last updated on 03.07.24 um 01:00
If you're delving into the world of 3D printing, you know how crucial the right materials can be for the success of your projects. Those seeking to produce prints with a balance of flexibility and smoothness will find a particular interest in the line-up we’ve prepared, showcasing some of the most sought-after options on the market.
We've intensively researched and tested an array of filaments to bring you a curated selection that stands out for their exceptional quality and performance. In our comprehensive guide, we'll unveil our top picks that promise to elevate the finish and feel of your creations, ensuring that every print exceeds expectations.
We've intensively researched and tested an array of filaments to bring you a curated selection that stands out for their exceptional quality and performance. In our comprehensive guide, we'll unveil our top picks that promise to elevate the finish and feel of your creations, ensuring that every print exceeds expectations.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: Polymaker TPU Filament 1.75 Teal
What to Look for in Softest TPU Filaments
Important criteria
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Flexibility
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Elasticity
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Layer adhesion
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Shore hardness
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Abrasion resistance
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Chemical resistance
1.) Material Quality
When purchasing the softest TPU filament, it's critical to assess the material quality. Look for reputable brands with good reviews that focus on the purity and consistency of their TPU. High-quality TPU will yield smoother prints, more consistent flexibility, and better layer adhesion. Avoid filaments that have impurities or are mixed with other materials, as these can lead to poor print quality and decreased durability of the final product.
2.) Flexibility and Shore Hardness
TPU filament flexibility is often measured by Shore Hardness. The lower the Shore Hardness number, the softer the material. For the softest filament, aim for a low Shore Hardness, typically ranging from 60A to 95A. Consider the end use of the printed object to ensure the right balance between flexibility and structural stability. Be mindful that extremely soft filaments may be more challenging to print with and could require a 3D printer capable of handling flexible materials.
Pictured: Polymaker TPU Filament 1.75 Black
3.) Printer Compatibility
Ensure that your 3D printer is compatible with soft TPU filament. Not all printers are equipped to handle the flexibility of TPU, which can cause jamming or misprints. Printers with a direct drive extruder generally handle flexible filaments better than those with a Bowden extruder. Additionally, check the printer's recommended filament diameter, usually 1.75mm or 2.85mm, to match the TPU filament you intend to buy.
4.) Storage and Handling
Soft TPU filament is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture from the air, which can result in print quality issues. Purchase filament that comes in a sealed package with desiccant. Once opened, store the filament in an airtight container to minimize exposure to humidity. Managing the filament's environment helps maintain its softness and printability over time.
The Softest TPU Filaments of our Choice
Our Pick
NovaMaker TPU Filament 1.75mm
Type/Color: Black
Features
- One-month free trial for TPU filament
- Lifetime Quality Promise & Money Return Service
- Professional printing advice from technique support team
- SMOOTH & STABLE prints with excellent bed adhesion
- Made with high-quality USA virgin TPU material
- Eco-friendly and less odor, warping, and clogs
- Stretchable up to 3 times its original length
- Diameter of 1.75mm +/- 0.05mm for accuracy
- Tangle-free packaging with desiccants to ensure quality
- Recommended printing temperature and bed temperature
- Compatible with common 1.75mm FDM 3D printers
- Cost-effective option from an experienced manufacturer
2
SUNLU TPU Filament 1.75mm Flexible 3D
Type/Color: 1000g Tpu Black
Size: 1kg
Features
- Flexible TPU filament suitable for various prints.
- Excellent layer adhesion and easy to print.
- Recommended settings for optimal TPU printing.
- Dimensional Accuracy +/- 0.03mm for wide compatibility.
- Wide range of high-quality 3D printing products available.
$ 27.99 *
View
on Amazon
Price Pick
YOYI YOYI 3D Printer Filament
Type/Color: 0.5kg Black
Features
- Professional packaging and vacuum sealed
- Net weight: 0.5KG
- Silk-like filament in sealed vacuum bag with desiccant
- Prevents nozzle jams and yields smooth 3D models
- High print quality, low warping, consistent feeding
- No clogging, tangles, or bubbles
- High success rate with outstanding surface finish
- Ideal for indoor printing
- TPU 3D printer filament, diameter: 1.75mm
- Tolerances: +/- 0.03 mm
- Good toughness, not easy to break
- Smooth extrusion with no clogging
- Strong adhesion, low shrinkage
- Print suggestion: follow our provided print temperature
- Service after sale: comprehensive testing for quality
- Confident in YOYI YOYI products
- Contact us for problem-solving assistance
4
DURAMIC 3D TPU Filament 1.75mm Black
Model: TPU
Type/Color: 1kg Black
Features
- High Elasticity & Strength - Duramic TPU filament 1.75mm
- Consistent Diameter - Accurate and consistent diameter 1.75mm
- Smooth & Stable Printing - Jam-free with excellent layer adhesion
- Compatible with various printers and 3D pens on market
- User-friendly with length and weight scale
- Risk-free service & package - Free trial, quality promise, money-back
- Package includes spool, bag, and technical support
5
Geeetech TPU Filament 1.75mm
Type/Color: Tpu Clear
Features
- Durable and elastic TPU material, shore hardness of 95A
- TPU can stretch 3 times its original length
- Suitable for flexible and resistant models, tools, etc.
- Printed TPU parts are durable and elastic
- Tangle-free and moisture-free spooling process
- Manual examination ensures neat wiring with no tangling
- Vacuum sealed with desiccant to prevent moisture
- Accurate and consistent 1.75mm diameter with CCD measurement
- Accuracy of +/- 0.03mm guaranteed, 1 kg spool
- High-quality filament with over 12 years of experience
- Made for sustainability and printing enthusiasts
- Lifetime guarantee and dedicated customer support
In other categories
- Rank 1 of 19 in Softest Filament
$ 26.99 *
View
on Amazon
6
OVERTURE TPU Filament 1.75mm Flexible TPU Roll
Type/Color: 1kg Tpu Black
Features
- Soft filaments with high elasticity (TPU).
- Excellent bed adhesion and low-warp properties.
- Clog-free and easy to use with no bubbles.
- Dimensional accuracy and consistency (1.75mm diameter).
- Cost-effective and compatible with most common 3D printers.
- Lifetime guarantee for replacement or refund.
In other categories
- Rank 5 of 19 in Softest Filament
7
GIANTARM TPU Filament
Type/Color: Tpu-clear
Features
- Soft Filaments of High Elasticity
- TPU 95a with shore hardness of 95A
- Stretch 3 times more than original length
- Excellent bed adhesion, low-warp, low-odor
- Clog-Free, Bubble-Free, Easy-to-use
- Complete drying for 24 hours before packaging
- Vacuum sealed with desiccants, no bubble
- Dimensional Accuracy & Consistency
- Diameter measuring with self-adaptive control system
- Strict tolerances, diameter 1.75mm, dimensional Accuracy 99%
- 1 kg spool (2.2lbs)
- Wide Compatibility & Eco Free
- Over 9 years' experience in 3D filament R&D
- Cost-effective and reliable for most common 3D printers
- Can be used in many areas
- LIFE-TIME GAURANTEE
- Contact us for any problems
- Reliable 3D filaments/accessories/3D printer/3D pen supplier
$ 19.99 *
View
on Amazon
8
Siraya Tech Flex TPU Filament
Type/Color: 85a Black
Features
- Superior Flexibility & Toughness: Siraya Tech's Flex TPU 85A 3d printer filament is highly flexible and tough, perfect for durable 3D prints.
- Effortless Printing Experience: Compatible with most 3D printers, our Flex TPU filament ensures smooth and reliable printing for beginners and experts.
- Long-Lasting Quality with Special Packaging: Our Flex TPU 3d printer filament is sealed in moisture-resistant bags, ensuring up to 3 years of shelf life and consistent print quality.
- Versatile for Various Applications: Flex TPU filament 1.75mm meets diverse needs in creative and industrial settings, suitable for custom footwear and medical devices.
- Easier to print: Our specially formulated Flex TPU 3d printer filament ensures smoother extrusion and superior adhesion, easing the printing process for optimal results.
In other categories
- Rank 3 of 19 in Softest Filament
$ 39.99 *
View
on Amazon
9
AMOLEN TPU 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm
Model: 3DTPUGR
Type/Color: Tpu-black
Features
- Made from high-quality TPU for durability
- Resistant to oil, grease, and abrasion
- Supports high-speed printing for time savings
- Allows for repeated movement without cracking
- Good shaping and strong toughness
- No bubbling, jamming, or warping
- Compatible with most FDM 3D printers
- Reusable Sealed Vacuum Bags for filament storage
- Transparent spool shows filament color
- Provides professional 3D printing technical guidance
$ 26.99 *
View
on Amazon
10
HATCHBOX 1.75mm Orange TPU 3D Printer Filament Shore 95A
Type/Color: Orange
Features
- Filament Specs: 1 kg spool, 1.75 mm diameter
- Recommended temp range: 190°C - 235°C
- TPU Shore 95A: Hard, flexible, and elastic material
- Ideal for objects needing strength and flexibility
- Superior flexibility compared to other filaments
- Resistant to deformation, reliable for demanding prints
- Easy to use for beginners and experts alike
- Semi-gloss finish with unmistakable flexibility
- Hatchbox known for high-quality TPU filament
- Largest selection of filaments and colors available
11
SainSmart TPU 1.75mm 92A Flexible TPU 3D Printer Filament
Type/Color: 92a- Soft Pink
Features
- Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
- Shore Hardness: 92A
- Dimensional Accuracy: +/- 0.04 mm
- 1 kg (approx. 2.2 lbs) per Spool
- Vacuumed Sealed with Desiccant
- Extruder Temp: 195 - 230°C
- Platform Temp: 40 - 60°C
- 92A TPU = higher elongation & abrasion resistance
- Better elasticity & rebound resilience
- Low warping and stringing
- Resistance to oils, greases
- Printing requires tweaking
- Compatibility with most FDM printers
- Can produce elastomer parts
- Used in electronics, automotive, consumer goods, sports
12
TEQStone TPU Filament 1.75mm Black 1Kg
Type/Color: Tpu Black
Features
- Resilient and Elastic TPU filament
- Maintains shape and durability over time
- Precise 95A Shore Hardness for balance
- Consistent diameter for reliable printing experience
- High-performance printing with exceptional layer adhesion
- Versatile compatibility with wide range of printers
$ 25.99 *
View
on Amazon
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Top Picks for Softest TPU Filament for Every Buyer
Hobbyists and DIY Enthusiasts
Discover the joy of creating with our selection of soft TPU filaments, ideal for at-home projects and DIY crafts. Transform your creative ideas into tangible objects with a filament designed for ease of use and flexibility.
Professional Designers
Elevate your professional prototyping and design projects with our carefully selected soft TPU filaments. Ensure your models have the precision and flexibility you require to impress clients and meet design specifications.
Educators and Students
Integrate hands-on learning with our softest TPU filament selections, perfectly suited for educational environments. Empower students to explore the possibilities of 3D printing with materials that are both versatile and user-friendly.
Industrial Users
Take your industrial applications to the next level with advanced soft TPU filaments designed for durability and performance. Address challenging manufacturing needs with materials that balance flexibility and strength.
Questions You Might Ask
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) filament is a flexible, rubber-like material commonly used in 3D printing for applications that require elasticity and shock absorption. Its main applications include phone cases, footwear, automotive parts, medical devices, and various sporting goods.
When choosing a TPU filament, consider its hardness level measured in Shore scale (usually A or D), the printer's extruder compatibility, and the filament's diameter to match your printer's specifications. Also, review the filament's temperature resistance and elasticity to ensure it meets the requirements of your intended project.
While not always necessary, a heated bed can improve bed adhesion and reduce the chances of warping when printing with TPU filament. If your printer has a heated bed, it is recommended to use it in the range of 40°C to 60°C for best results.
To prevent clogging, avoid retracting the filament excessively, use a direct drive extruder if possible, and print at a consistent speed that suits the TPU's flow characteristics. Ensuring the right printing temperature and using a larger nozzle diameter can also help to reduce clogging issues.
TPU filament should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use an airtight container with desiccant packs to prevent moisture absorption, which can negatively affect print quality and filament properties. Keeping the filament dust-free will also help ensure optimal printing performance.
Currently Active Poll
How to Choose the Softest TPU Filament
Our Pick: NovaMaker TPU Filament 1.75mm
Are you in the market for TPU filament with a soft touch for your 3D printing projects? Selecting the right softest TPU filament can be tricky, but this guide is designed to simplify the process. We'll cover the key factors you should consider to ensure you make the best choice for your needs, from flexibility and durability to print settings and post-processing.
Understanding TPU Filament
TPU, or Thermoplastic Polyurethane, is a versatile filament known for its flexibility and durability. It's a popular choice for creating objects that require the ability to bend or stretch, such as phone cases, wearable devices, or flexible hinges. Unlike rigid materials, soft TPU combines the pliability of rubber with the strength and processability of thermoplastics.
When shopping for the softest TPU, examine the filament's Shore Hardness—a measure of material's resistance to indentation. Soft TPU filaments typically have a lower Shore Hardness, implying you'll get more flexibility. Also, consider the filament's elasticity and how much it can stretch before it deforms permanently, a property known as elongation at break.
Printing Considerations for TPU
TPU is not without its printing challenges, primarily due to its flexibility. To ensure a successful print, it's crucial to use a 3D printer that is capable of handling soft filaments. Direct-drive extruders are often recommended over Bowden extruders for providing better control and reducing the chances of filament buckling.
Adjusting print settings is also key; for soft TPU filaments, you might need to lower the printing speed to avoid snags and improve precision. Furthermore, it's important to work with an optimal extrusion temperature and make sure the heated bed, if your printer has one, is set to the right temperature to promote good bed adhesion without warping.
Quality and Brand Reputation
As with any filament, the quality of TPU can vary between manufacturers. Researching brands and reading consumer reviews will provide insights into the filament's performance. High-quality TPU should have consistent diameter measurements throughout the spool and should not contain impurities that could affect your print's finish or durability.
Don't be swayed by price alone; a cheaper TPU might save you money upfront but could cost more in failed prints and frustration. Instead, look for manufacturers with a strong reputation in the industry who offer detailed product specifications, customer support, and satisfaction guarantees.
Post-Processing and End-Use
After printing with soft TPU, post-processing can enhance your project's aesthetics and functionality. Techniques such as sanding or using a heat gun to remove stringing can give your print a more polished look. However, TPU's nature means you might not need as much post-processing compared to more rigid filaments.
Finally, consider the intended use of your printed object. For items that will be subject to frequent flexing or outdoor exposure, check the UV resistance and wear resistance of the TPU filament. The softest TPU is ideal for objects requiring a gentle touch, like wearable devices, but make sure it also meets any strength criteria for your specific application.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In seeking the softest TPU filament, we've gathered a variety of resources to aid in your decision-making process. The links provided are curated based on their credibility and value, collected from several formats for diverse insights. Here, you will find categories that encompass reviews, forum discussions, Reddit threads, and video content, each offering perspectives from experts and users alike.
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forum.prusa3d.com
Anyone found a " soft " flexible filament? I am running some tests on TPU to see if it can be made more pliable by printing at a lower temp.
The softest I have seen so far is 60A (Recreus Filaflex 60A) but 82A is already difficult enough to print.
It has a filament base hardness of 92A so it prints well with pretty much any extrusion system I've thrown at it. However depending on print...
Trying different hardness TPU filaments to see if we ... - YouTube
softer TPU / Flexible filaments on our ender 3 style bowden extruder 3d printers. I also prove (in an even looser sense) that direct drive...
