How does Matte PETG perform when temperatures reach 70°C, 80°C, or even 90°C?
Matte PETG heat resistance is an important consideration when choosing filament for functional parts, enclosures, automotive accessories, and other applications exposed to elevated temperatures.
To see the difference for ourselves, we tested iSANMATE Matte PETG, regular PETG, and ASA at three temperatures: 70°C, 80°C, and 90°C. The test used new cantilever beam samples for each temperature, with every sample exposed to heat for 15 minutes. We then measured the amount of deformation after the test.
Matte PETG vs PETG vs ASA: Test Results
| Material | HDT | 70°C | 80°C | 90°C |
| Matte PETG | 76.9°C | 0 mm | 12 mm | 53 mm |
| Regular PETG | 70.4°C | 2 mm | 14 mm | 68 mm |
| ASA | 93.9°C | 0 mm | 0 mm | 0 mm |
The results show a clear trend: as the temperature increased, both PETG materials experienced progressively greater deformation, while the ASA samples maintained their original shape throughout this particular test.
These results should be considered under the specific test conditions used here. They are not intended to represent the maximum operating temperature of every printed part.
How We Tested Heat Resistance
We used a cantilever beam model to make deformation easy to observe and measure. Before testing, the filaments were dried according to their preparation requirements. The printed samples were then prepared for the heat test. For each temperature, we used a new set of samples rather than heating the same model repeatedly.
The test conditions were:
- 70°C — 15 minutes
- 80°C — 15 minutes
- 90°C — 15 minutes
- Same cantilever beam design
- New samples for each temperature
- Same measurement method for all materials
After heating, each sample was placed on a cutting mat with a measurement grid. The base of every model was positioned at the same reference point, allowing us to measure how far the cantilever section had moved.
This approach allowed us to compare deformation at each temperature without carrying heat exposure from one temperature into the next.
Test note: This is a practical heat-exposure test using printed samples, not a standardized HDT test. Actual results can vary with model geometry, print orientation, wall thickness, infill, applied load, and exposure time.
At 70°C: Small Differences Begin to Appear
The difference between the three materials was relatively small when at 70°C. After 15 minutes:
- Matte PETG: 0 mm
- Regular PETG: 2 mm
- ASA: 0 mm
At 80°C: PETG Deformation Becomes More Noticeable
At this temperature, the difference becomes much easier to see. After 15 minutes:
- Matte PETG: 12 mm
- Regular PETG: 14 mm
- ASA: 0 mm
The results also show why HDT can be useful when comparing materials. As the test temperature approaches or exceeds a material’s heat-deflection range, the risk of deformation generally becomes more important to consider, especially for parts under load.
At 90°C: A Clear Difference in Thermal Performance
We can see the difference becomes even more obvious. After 15 minutes:
- Matte PETG: 53 mm
- Regular PETG: 68 mm
- ASA: 0 mm
Both PETG samples showed substantial deformation, while the ASA sample remained at 0 mm deformation in this test. But this does not mean ASA will never deform at 90°C or that every printed ASA part can be used at 90°C.
What Does This Mean for Real 3D Printed Parts?
The most useful takeaway isn’t simply which filament “wins.” It’s understanding where each material makes sense. A printed part may encounter heat in many everyday situations:
- Inside a warm car
- Near a heat source
- Inside an enclosed printer
- In outdoor environments
- Near motors or other warm components
- In equipment exposed to elevated temperatures
The amount of deformation will depend on more than the filament itself. A thin cantilever beam is designed to make deformation visible. A thick, compact part may behave very differently at the same temperature. Likewise, a part carrying a load can deform more easily than an unloaded decorative model. That’s why temperature resistance should always be considered together with the actual temperature, exposure time, geometry, and mechanical load when choosing filament.
What Is Matte PETG Good For?
Matte PETG is particularly attractive when you want a combination of good everyday performance and a clean, low-gloss appearance. The matte surface can help reduce reflections and make layer lines less noticeable, making it a good fit for both functional and visual models.
Decorative Models
- Figurines
- Sculptures
- Character models
- Display pieces
- Cosplay accessories
- Collectible models
Desk and Home Accessories
- Desk organizers
- Cable management
- Storage accessories
- Tool holders
- Hooks
- Brackets
- Small fixtures
You can find more printing tips in our Matte PETG Printing Guide.
Functional Parts and Prototypes
Matte PETG can also be used for prototypes, housings, covers, and other functional parts where appearance matters. If the application involves sustained high temperatures or significant mechanical loads, however, a higher-temperature material may be a better choice.
When Should You Choose ASA Instead?
ASA can be a better choice than PETG when a printed part needs greater heat resistance, UV resistance, or long-term outdoor durability. It can be worth considering for:
- Non-structural automotive accessories
- Outdoor functional components
- Parts exposed to strong sunlight
- Warm equipment enclosures
- Higher-temperature functional applications
However, ASA can be more challenging to print than PETG, particularly for larger models. Warping, drafts, and enclosure requirements should be considered before choosing ASA for a project.
Matte PETG vs Regular PETG
The test also provides a direct comparison between the two PETG materials. Matte PETG showed less deformation than regular PETG at all three test temperatures.
The difference was relatively small at 70°C but became more noticeable at 90°C, where Matte PETG deformed 15 mm less than regular PETG under the test conditions. The HDT values provide another reference point for comparing the two materials, although HDT and this practical heat-exposure test are measured under different conditions.
For a more detailed comparison of these two 3D printing filaments, see our Matte PETG vs. Regular PETG guide, which covers performance, appearance, and print quality.
How to Improve Heat Performance in Your Prints
Filament is only part of the equation. For functional parts that need to maintain their shape under heat, consider:
Increase wall thickness: More structural material can improve stiffness.
Choose the right print orientation: Layer direction can affect how a part responds to mechanical stress.
Avoid long unsupported sections: Thin cantilevers are especially sensitive to heat-induced deformation.
Consider the applied load: A loaded part may deform more than an unloaded part at the same temperature.
Keep filament dry: Proper filament preparation helps maintain consistent printing quality and layer bonding.
For iSANMATE Matte PETG, see our Matte PETG Drying Guide for recommended drying conditions.
Final Takeaway
Choose your filament based on the environment and performance requirements of the finished part.
👉 For everyday indoor functional and decorative prints → Matte PETG
👉 For general-purpose PETG applications where surface finish is less important → Regular PETG
👉 For higher heat, UV exposure, or demanding outdoor applications → ASA
FAQ
🔎 Is Matte PETG better than regular PETG?
Not necessarily. Matte PETG and regular PETG have different advantages. Matte PETG offers a low-gloss finish and can make layer lines less noticeable, while regular PETG may be preferable when higher flexural strength or a traditional glossy appearance is more important.
🔎 Is Matte PETG good for functional parts?
Yes. Matte PETG can be used for many functional parts such as holders, brackets, organizers, housings, covers, and prototypes. However, the material should be selected based on the part’s temperature, load, outdoor exposure, and dimensional requirements.
🔎 What temperature can PETG withstand?
PETG temperature resistance depends on the specific material, print design, load, exposure time, and environment.
🔎 Can PETG be used in a hot car?
It depends on the location and load of the part. A lightly loaded part in a shaded area may perform differently from a part exposed to direct sunlight or trapped heat. If a printed part needs to maintain its shape under sustained heat, especially in a hot vehicle, test the actual design or consider a material with higher heat and UV resistance such as ASA.
🔎 Is PETG good for outdoor 3D printing?
PETG can work well for some outdoor applications, especially when parts are sheltered or exposed to moderate conditions. For long-term direct sunlight, UV exposure, or more demanding outdoor environments, ASA is generally a better choice because of its UV and weather resistance.
🔎 Is ASA harder to print than PETG?
Generally, yes. PETG is usually easier to print and is more forgiving for everyday functional parts. ASA can require better temperature control, reduced drafts, and an enclosed printer, especially for larger models. The extra printing requirements can be worthwhile when heat, UV, or weather resistance is important.
Choose the Right Filament for Your Next Print
Looking for an easy-to-print PETG with a low-gloss finish? Explore iSANMATE Matte PETG for everyday functional and decorative projects.
Need greater heat and weather resistance for a more demanding application? Explore iSANMATE ASA for outdoor and higher-temperature projects.
Not sure which material fits your application? Contact our team for recommendations.
