Both print similarly, but one lasts years outdoors while the other degrades in months. Here's the complete comparison — and when each makes sense.
For outdoor/UV exposure: Use ASA — UV-resistant, won't yellow or crack
For indoor functional parts: Use ABS — cheaper, nearly identical properties
Printing difficulty: Identical — both need enclosure, high bed temp, same settings
Price difference: ASA costs ~20% more ($25-35 vs $20-30 per kg)
| Property | ABS | ASA |
|---|---|---|
| UV Resistance | Poor — yellows/cracks | Excellent |
| Outdoor Lifespan | 6-12 months | 5+ years |
| Print Temperature | 230-250°C | 240-260°C |
| Bed Temperature | 100-110°C | 90-110°C |
| Heat Resistance | 80-90°C | 95°C |
| Warping | High | Similar (high) |
| Enclosure Needed? | Yes | Yes |
| Price (avg) | $20-30/kg | $25-35/kg |
| Acetone Smoothing | Yes | Yes |
• Indoor functional parts
• Automotive interior trim
• Enclosures (electronics, appliances)
• Replacement parts (household items)
• Prototypes & testing
• Budget-sensitive projects
• Outdoor fixtures & mounts
• Garden tools & accessories
• Automotive exterior parts
• Outdoor signage
• Planters & outdoor decor
• Anything exposed to sun/weather
The key difference between ABS and ASA is the styrene-acrylonitrile backbone. ASA replaces butadiene (in ABS) with an acrylate rubber that contains UV-absorbing groups. This prevents UV light from breaking polymer chains — the cause of yellowing and brittleness.
Real-world test (12 months outdoor exposure):
ABS: Yellowed significantly, surface cracks visible, tensile strength down 40%
ASA: Minimal color shift, no cracks, tensile strength down <10%
If you can print ABS, you can print ASA with minimal changes. The process is 95% the same.
| Setting | ABS | ASA |
|---|---|---|
| Nozzle Temp | 230-250°C | 240-260°C (slightly hotter) |
| First Layer Bed | 110°C | 100-110°C |
| Print Speed | 40-60 mm/s | 40-60 mm/s |
| Cooling Fan | 0-20% | 0-15% |
| Enclosure | Required | Required |
| Chamber Temp Target | 40-55°C | 40-55°C |