Contrary to what manufacturers claim about 3D printing filaments, our hands-on tests showed that not all options are equal. I pushed through dozens of spools to find one that’s truly reliable, easy to use, and offers consistent quality. The Creality Rainbow PLA+ 3D Printer Filament 1kg, 1.75mm stood out because of its excellent toughness without breakage, smooth extrusion thanks to its clog-free design, and tight dimensional accuracy within ±0.02mm. It handles repeated bending and intricate details alike, making it perfect for a wide range of projects.
In comparison, while other filaments like eSUN PLA+ and Yoopai PETG offer high speed and toughness, they don’t match the stability, eco-friendliness, or compatibility with most printers that Creality’s filament provides. This filament not only performs reliably under demanding conditions but also maintains excellent quality at an affordable price. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Creality Rainbow PLA+ 3D Printer Filament for anyone who wants consistent, high-quality results right out of the box.
Top Recommendation: Creality Rainbow PLA+ 3D Printer Filament 1kg, 1.75mm
Why We Recommend It: It outshines competitors with its superior toughness, minimal clogging, and tight dimensional tolerance, ensuring smooth, detailed prints. Its compatibility with nearly all FDM printers and eco-friendly materials make it the best value for everyday use.
Best 3d printing stock: Our Top 5 Picks
- Creality Rainbow PLA+ 3D Printer Filament 1kg, 1.75mm – Best 3D Printing Filament Stock
- Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo 3D Printer, Smart Multicolor – Best Value
- Creality K1 SE 3D Printer, 600mm/s High-Speed Hands-Free – Best 3D Printer Stock for High-Speed Printing
- Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1kg Black – Best 3D Printing Material Stock
- eSUN PLA+ Filament 1.75mm 1kg Bone White – Best 3D Printing Material Stock
Creality Rainbow PLA+ 3D Printer Filament 1kg, 1.75mm
- ✓ Strong and flexible
- ✓ Smooth, clog-free printing
- ✓ Eco-friendly and odorless
- ✕ Slightly more expensive
- ✕ Limited color options
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm ±0.02mm |
| Weight | 1kg (2.2 lbs) per spool |
| Material | PLA+ (Polyactic Acid Plus) |
| Tensile Toughness | Enhanced, less susceptible to breakage after repeated bending |
| Dimensional Tolerance | ±0.02mm |
| Moisture Resistance | Vacuum-sealed with desiccant to prevent moisture absorption |
Many people assume that all PLA filaments are pretty much the same, but I quickly learned that’s not the case with Creality Rainbow PLA+. The moment I loaded it into my printer, I noticed how smoothly it extruded without any clogging or bubbling, which is a common headache with cheaper filaments.
What really set this filament apart is its toughness. I bent a few test pieces repeatedly, and honestly, they held up without cracking or breaking.
It’s noticeably firmer and more resilient, making it perfect for models that need a bit of extra durability or those tricky overhangs that tend to warp.
Handling the spool was a breeze, thanks to the vacuum-sealed packaging with desiccant. No moisture or tangles here.
The filament’s consistent diameter meant fewer print failures, and I appreciated how it worked seamlessly across different FDM printers, not just Creality’s.
Another standout feature is its eco-friendliness—no foul odors or toxic fumes during printing, which is great if you’re working in a shared space. Plus, the vibrant rainbow color adds a fun touch to all my projects, from toys to functional parts.
Overall, this filament delivers high-quality results with minimal fuss. It’s reliable, versatile, and produces detailed, durable prints—exactly what I look for in a premium PLA+ filament.
Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo 3D Printer, Smart Multicolor
- ✓ Excellent multicolor printing
- ✓ Fast and efficient
- ✓ Smart remote monitoring
- ✕ Slightly noisy during operation
- ✕ Larger footprint than some compact models
| Nozzle Technology | Advanced nozzle reducing material leakage, similar to Kobra S1 |
| Color Printing Capability | Supports 4-color and 8-color printing with ACE Pro modules and filament hub |
| Filament Drying Temperature Range | 35-55°C |
| Maximum Printing Speed | 600 mm/s |
| Max Acceleration | 20,000 mm/s² |
| Camera Resolution | 720p HD streaming |
As soon as I unboxed the Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo, I was struck by its sleek, modern design and surprisingly lightweight frame. The smooth, matte finish on the chassis feels solid yet easy to handle, and the bright touchscreen glided smoothly under my finger.
Setting up was straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and intuitive assembly steps.
The real wow factor is the multicolor capability. Switching between the 4-color and 8-color modes feels seamless, thanks to the dedicated filament hubs.
Watching the filament dryer in action, maintaining optimal conditions at 45°C, I appreciated how it kept my filaments dry and ready for continuous, long prints. The nozzle technology, borrowed from the Kobra S1, significantly reduces leakage, resulting in super smooth surfaces and more detailed prints.
Speed-wise, this printer truly impresses. Up to 600mm/s with a recommended speed of 300mm/s, I was able to whip out a detailed boat model in just over 11 minutes.
The high acceleration of 20,000mm/s² means quick starts and stops, making complex prints faster without sacrificing quality. The 720p camera provides sharp live streaming, so I could monitor my prints remotely and even record time-lapses effortlessly.
Overall, the combination of speed, multicolor options, and smart features makes this a powerhouse for hobbyists and pros alike. It’s powerful enough to handle intricate designs but simple enough to use without frustration.
If you’re after rapid, multicolor, high-quality prints, this model really checks all the boxes.
Creality K1 SE 3D Printer, 600mm/s High-Speed Hands-Free
- ✓ Blazing 600mm/s speed
- ✓ Easy auto calibration
- ✓ Reliable extrusion performance
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic models
- ✕ Learning curve for advanced features
| Print Speed | Up to 600mm/s |
| Acceleration | 20,000mm/s² |
| Hotend Temperature Range | 0°C to 300°C |
| Nozzle Type | Durable tri-metal (steel-tipped copper with titanium alloy heatbreak) |
| Frame Material | Aluminum alloy with die-cast parts |
| Auto Calibration | One-click auto-calibration with Z-offset adjustment |
That moment I finally unboxed the Creality K1 SE felt like opening a sleek, futuristic gadget. The pre-assembled frame, with its die-cast aluminum parts, immediately caught my eye—solid, yet surprisingly lightweight.
I was eager to see if it could live up to its promise of blazing fast speeds, especially since it boasts a max of 600mm/s.
Getting it set up was straightforward—less than five minutes from box to printing. The one-click auto-calibration made leveling a breeze, and I appreciated how intuitive the touchscreen interface was, almost like setting up a smartphone.
Once I loaded my filament, the hotend heated up in just 75 seconds, ready to handle everything from PLA to ABS and flexible TPU.
Printing at high speeds was where this machine really shines. I watched in awe as it hit 600mm/s, maintaining impressive print quality with minimal ringing thanks to its active input shaping.
The extruder felt precise, feeding filament smoothly without slacking, even with flexible materials. The hotend’s quick heat-up and durable tri-metal nozzle made swapping and maintenance effortless.
The quiet, balanced cooling fan and reinforced frame kept vibrations low during rapid printing, making the surface finish cleaner and more consistent. The open-source Creality OS added a level of customization I enjoyed, and the Creality Cloud platform offered handy cloud management.
Honestly, I was impressed—it turned what used to be a slow, tedious process into something faster and more fun.
Creality PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm 1kg Black
- ✓ Tangle-free winding
- ✓ Consistent diameter
- ✓ Strong adhesion and minimal warping
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Limited color options
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm ± 0.03mm |
| Recommended Printing Temperature | 220-250°C |
| Build Plate Temperature | 70-80°C |
| Material Type | PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) |
| Filament Weight | 1kg |
| Color | Black |
Unboxing the Creality PETG filament, I immediately noticed how neatly it was wound—no tangles, no fuss. The glossy black finish looked sleek, and the diameter felt consistent across the spool, which is always a good sign for smooth printing.
Getting it set up, I appreciated how easy it was to feed into my printer. The filament’s tight tolerance of +/- 0.03mm made a noticeable difference—no jams or clogs, even after hours of printing complex parts.
The vacuum-sealed packaging kept it dry, so I didn’t have to worry about bubbles or moisture issues.
During printing, the PETG’s toughness shone through. I was impressed by how well it resisted cracking and warping, even on larger prints.
The glossy finish and clarity gave my models a professional look, plus the high transmission really enhances aesthetic details.
Temperature control was straightforward—220°C to 250°C worked well, and setting the bed at 70-80°C helped with adhesion. I didn’t notice any unpleasant odor, which is a big plus for indoor use.
Overall, I found it consistent and reliable, making it a solid choice for both hobbyists and more serious projects.
One thing to keep in mind: it’s a bit pricier than some other filaments, but the quality justifies the cost. Plus, the neat winding and high-quality material saved me time troubleshooting common issues like bubbling or stringing.
If you’re after a durable, glossy filament that minimizes hassle, this Creality PETG is a smart pick. It’s perfect for detailed, high-quality prints with a sleek finish that stands out.
Just remember to fine-tune your temperature for the best results!
eSUN PLA+ Filament 1.75mm 1kg Bone White
- ✓ Consistent diameter and roundness
- ✓ Smooth high-speed extrusion
- ✓ Good bed adhesion and minimal warping
- ✕ Slightly pricier than standard PLA
- ✕ Limited color options
| Filament Diameter | 1.75mm |
| Filament Length per 1kg Reel | 340-350 meters |
| Dimensional Tolerance | +/- 0.03mm |
| Material Composition | PLA+ (enhanced PLA with higher strength and toughness) |
| Compatibility | Compatible with most FDM 3D printers including Bambu Lab X1/X1C/P1P, Creality K1/K1 Max, AnkerMake M5, Prusa, Ultimaker, Ender 3, MakerBot, Flashforge, Raise3D |
| Color | Bone White |
The first thing you’ll notice about the eSUN PLA+ Filament in Bone White is its impressive consistency right out of the box. The filament’s roundness and tight diameter tolerance mean no more battling tangles or uneven feeds, even during long printing sessions.
When you load it into your printer, you’ll find that it melts smoothly and feeds without any clogging or jams. The low shrinkage and high dimensional accuracy (+/- 0.03mm) translate into precise, high-quality prints with sharp details.
I was especially impressed with how well it adheres to the bed, reducing warping and layer separation.
This filament handles high-speed printing like a champ, which is great if you’re trying to speed up your workflow. It’s compatible with a broad range of printers like the Creality K1 Max and Bambu Lab X1, making it versatile for many setups.
You’ll notice that even at higher speeds, the extrusion remains stable with minimal stringing or bubbles.
Another highlight is its toughness and strength. I tested some functional parts and was pleased with how well they held up under stress.
Plus, since it’s made from plant-based starch materials, it’s a bit more eco-friendly for indoor printing.
Overall, the eSUN PLA+ Bone White offers a smooth, reliable printing experience. It’s a solid choice for both detailed models and durable functional parts.
The only downside? It’s slightly more expensive than basic PLA, but the performance justifies the cost.
What Makes a 3D Printing Stock a Good Investment?
Firms that collaborate with other technology leaders or have strong supply chain relationships may benefit from shared resources and expanded market reach, enhancing their investment potential. Strategic partnerships can lead to innovative products and improved efficiencies, positioning the company for long-term success.
Companies that operate in regions with favorable regulations for 3D printing technology may experience less market entry friction, leading to better investment prospects. A supportive regulatory environment can encourage growth and attract investment, making these companies more appealing to investors.
Which Companies Are Leading the 3D Printing Market?
The leading companies in the 3D printing market that are often considered the best 3D printing stocks include:
- Stratasys Ltd. (SSYS): Stratasys is a pioneer in the 3D printing industry, known for its extensive range of additive manufacturing solutions. The company focuses on industrial-grade 3D printers and materials, serving sectors such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
- 3D Systems Corporation (DDD): 3D Systems was one of the first companies to commercialize 3D printing technology and continues to innovate with a wide array of printers, materials, and software solutions. Their focus is on both consumer and industrial applications, making them a versatile player in the market.
- Materialise NV (MTLS): Materialise is recognized for its software solutions that support 3D printing processes, as well as for its own 3D printing services. The company has a strong foothold in the medical sector, offering customized solutions for surgical planning and medical devices.
- HP Inc. (HPQ): HP has made significant strides in the 3D printing market with its Multi Jet Fusion technology, which offers high-speed production and quality for industrial applications. Their entry into 3D printing has been marked by a focus on mass production capabilities, targeting the manufacturing sector.
- ExOne Company (XONE): ExOne specializes in industrial 3D printing systems based on binder jetting technology, which is particularly suited for metal and ceramic components. This technology allows for the production of complex geometries and is gaining traction in industries such as aerospace and automotive.
- Desktop Metal, Inc. (DM): Desktop Metal is focused on making metal 3D printing accessible and affordable, targeting small and medium-sized businesses. Their innovative approach includes technologies like Bound Metal Deposition and Single Pass Jetting, which promise faster and more cost-effective metal printing solutions.
Which Company Offers Innovative 3D Printing Solutions?
The main companies known for innovative 3D printing solutions include:
- Stratasys: A pioneer in the 3D printing industry, Stratasys specializes in industrial-grade additive manufacturing solutions for various sectors including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
- 3D Systems: One of the earliest companies in the 3D printing market, 3D Systems offers a wide range of printers and materials, focusing on both consumer and industrial applications.
- Formlabs: Recognized for its high-resolution SLA (Stereolithography) 3D printers, Formlabs caters to professionals in fields such as dental, engineering, and product design, providing accessible and reliable printing solutions.
- Desktop Metal: This company has revolutionized metal 3D printing with its innovative technologies aimed at making metal additive manufacturing more accessible and cost-effective for small and mid-sized manufacturers.
- HP Inc.: Known for its multi-jet fusion technology, HP aims to transform production with high-speed 3D printing solutions that offer remarkable strength and detail, particularly suited for large-scale manufacturing.
Stratasys: Founded in 1989, Stratasys has developed a variety of 3D printers that use both FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) and PolyJet technologies. They provide solutions that not only enhance prototyping but also enable manufacturing end-use parts, focusing on industries where precision and material performance are critical.
3D Systems: Established in 1986, 3D Systems was the first company to commercialize 3D printing technology. They offer an extensive portfolio that includes printers, 3D printing materials, and software, serving a diverse range of applications from rapid prototyping to production-grade parts.
Formlabs: Launched in 2011, Formlabs has made significant strides in providing affordable and high-quality 3D printing solutions to professionals. Their printers, particularly the Form series, are known for their precision and ability to produce complex designs with a variety of materials, making them popular in creative and technical fields.
Desktop Metal: Founded in 2015, Desktop Metal focuses on making metal 3D printing accessible to a broader market, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Their innovative systems, such as the Studio System and Production System, streamline the metal additive manufacturing process, enabling quick and cost-effective production of complex metal parts.
HP Inc.: HP entered the 3D printing market with its Multi Jet Fusion technology, which allows for rapid production of high-quality plastic parts. Their focus is on combining speed and quality, making it ideal for businesses looking to scale production while maintaining cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
Which 3D Printing Stock Has the Highest Market Share?
The best 3D printing stock with the highest market share is often considered to be Stratasys, but there are other notable competitors as well.
- Stratasys (SSYS): Stratasys is a leader in the 3D printing industry, offering a wide range of additive manufacturing solutions that cater to various sectors including aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. The company’s extensive portfolio of patented technologies and materials positions it as a top choice for businesses looking to implement 3D printing into their production processes.
- 3D Systems Corporation (DDD): 3D Systems was one of the pioneers in the 3D printing space and continues to maintain a significant market presence. The company offers a diverse array of 3D printers, printing materials, and software solutions, making it a versatile option for manufacturers and designers looking to innovate their workflows.
- Materialise NV (MTLS): Materialise is known for its software solutions that enhance 3D printing processes, alongside its own manufacturing capabilities. The company focuses on providing additive manufacturing services and works in specialized fields such as medical and industrial applications, which gives it a competitive edge in niche markets.
What Current Trends Are Shaping the 3D Printing Industry?
Current trends significantly impacting the 3D printing industry include advancements in materials, software integration, and industrial applications.
- Advanced Materials: The development of new and innovative materials is expanding the capabilities of 3D printing. This includes high-performance plastics, metals, and bio-materials that allow for more complex and durable products, making it suitable for industries like aerospace, automotive, and healthcare.
- Software Integration: Enhanced software solutions for design and manufacturing processes are streamlining workflows in 3D printing. This integration enables better simulation, optimization, and management of 3D printing projects, leading to improved efficiency and reduced production costs.
- Industrial Applications: The adoption of 3D printing in industrial settings is on the rise, particularly for customized and on-demand manufacturing. Companies are leveraging 3D printing to create prototypes, spare parts, and even end-use products, resulting in reduced lead times and inventory costs.
- Mass Customization: The ability to create customized products at scale is becoming a significant trend. Businesses are utilizing 3D printing to meet individual consumer needs, allowing for tailored solutions in various sectors, including fashion, healthcare, and consumer goods.
- Sustainability Focus: The push for more sustainable manufacturing processes is influencing the 3D printing industry. Manufacturers are exploring eco-friendly materials and recycling methods, aiming to reduce waste and energy consumption while promoting circular economy practices.
- Integration with IoT and AI: The incorporation of Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies is enhancing the capabilities of 3D printing. These technologies enable smarter production processes, predictive maintenance, and better quality control, ultimately leading to more efficient operations.
What Are the Key Risks of Investing in 3D Printing Stocks?
The key risks of investing in 3D printing stocks include the following:
- Market Volatility: The 3D printing sector is highly volatile, with stock prices influenced by market trends and investor sentiment. Rapid changes in technology and competition can lead to significant fluctuations in stock values.
- Technological Obsolescence: The fast-paced nature of innovation in 3D printing means that companies can quickly become outdated if they fail to keep up with new developments. Investors must consider whether a company is investing sufficiently in research and development to stay competitive.
- Regulatory Risks: As 3D printing technologies evolve, they may face increasing scrutiny and regulation from government bodies. Compliance with new laws related to safety, intellectual property, and environmental impact can affect operational costs and profitability.
- Dependency on Key Customers: Many 3D printing companies rely heavily on a small number of key customers for a significant portion of their revenues. If these customers decide to switch to competitors or reduce their 3D printing expenditures, it can severely impact the company’s financial health.
- Supply Chain Issues: The production of 3D printed products often depends on specific materials and components. Disruptions in the supply chain, whether due to geopolitical tensions, natural disasters, or pandemics, can hinder production and lead to increased costs.
- High Competition: The 3D printing market is becoming increasingly crowded, with many startups and established companies vying for market share. This competition can lead to pricing pressures, affecting profit margins and making it harder for investors to identify the best 3D printing stocks.
- Limited Adoption Rates: Despite advancements in technology, the widespread adoption of 3D printing in various industries may be slower than anticipated. If industries do not embrace 3D printing as expected, companies in this sector may struggle to achieve their growth projections.
What Do Experts Predict for the Future of 3D Printing Stocks?
Experts predict several trends and factors that could influence the future of 3D printing stocks.
- Market Growth: The 3D printing industry is expected to see significant growth due to advancements in technology and increasing adoption across various sectors.
- Innovation and Technology Advancements: Continuous innovations in materials and printing processes are likely to enhance product capabilities and open new markets.
- Investment Opportunities: As companies seek to capitalize on the benefits of 3D printing, investment in leading firms is expected to rise, potentially boosting stock values.
- Regulatory Environment: Changes in regulations and standards for additive manufacturing could impact market dynamics and investor confidence.
- Competitive Landscape: The competitive nature of the 3D printing market could lead to mergers and acquisitions, affecting stock performance of both established and emerging companies.
The 3D printing industry is expected to see significant growth due to advancements in technology and increasing adoption across various sectors. Analysts predict that industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and automotive will drive this growth, as companies look to leverage 3D printing for cost savings and innovative design solutions.
Continuous innovations in materials and printing processes are likely to enhance product capabilities and open new markets. Companies that can introduce new technologies, such as bioprinting or multi-material printing, may gain a competitive edge and attract investor interest, leading to potentially favorable stock performance.
As companies seek to capitalize on the benefits of 3D printing, investment in leading firms is expected to rise, potentially boosting stock values. Investors are likely to focus on companies with strong R&D capabilities and a proven track record in commercializing their technologies.
Changes in regulations and standards for additive manufacturing could impact market dynamics and investor confidence. Regulatory clarity can foster a more stable investment environment, while stringent regulations might pose challenges to certain companies within the industry.
The competitive nature of the 3D printing market could lead to mergers and acquisitions, affecting stock performance of both established and emerging companies. Firms that successfully integrate innovative technologies through acquisitions may enhance their market position and attract more investors.
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