What is Polymaker PolyLite PLA?

PolyLite PLA is Polymaker's standard PLA line, formulated with their Warp-Free technology for excellent bed adhesion on many surfaces. It prints at 190–230°C (210°C recommended) and 25–60°C bed, making it one of the more flexible PLAs for different printer setups. PolyLite is a step above budget PLA in consistency and color range, while remaining affordable.

Is PolyFlex TPU good for Bowden printers?

PolyFlex TPU95 is one of the few TPU formulations that can work in Bowden setups, though it still requires slow print speeds (15–20 mm/s) and minimal retraction (0–1mm). It performs best on direct-drive extruders. For Bowden printers, an upgraded direct-drive adapter (Creality Sprite, Micro Swiss NG) is the more reliable solution for printing flexible filament.

Filament Brands

Polymaker Filament Settings

Polymaker specializes in engineering-grade and specialty filaments — PolyFlex TPU, PolyMax PC, and PolyMide PA12-CF are well-known for consistent quality and formulated profiles. These settings cover the main Polymaker lines from PLA through carbon fiber Nylon.

Engineering-gradePLA · TPU · PC · PA12-CFAmazon / 3DJake / MatterHackers

Settings by material

PolyLite PLA

Nozzle temp190–230°CStart at 210°C

Bed temp25–60°CStart at 60°C

Retraction1 mm (DD) / 4 mm (Bowden)

Fan100%

Print speed40–120 mm/s

PolyLite PLA uses Polymaker's Warp-Free technology for excellent first-layer adhesion without a heated bed. 210°C nozzle on smooth PEI at 60°C is a reliable starting point for most printers.

PolyTerra PLA

Nozzle temp190–230°CStart at 215°C

Bed temp25–60°CStart at 60°C

Retraction1 mm (DD) / 4 mm (Bowden)

Fan100%

Print speed40–100 mm/s

PolyTerra is Polymaker's matte earth-tone line. Slightly higher temp than PolyLite for the matte formulation. Matte finish naturally hides layer lines.

PolyFlex TPU95

Nozzle temp220–230°CStart at 225°C

Bed temp25–60°CStart at 40°C

Retraction0–2 mm (DD only)

Fan100%

Print speed20–40 mm/s

PolyFlex TPU95 is formulated for direct drive. Bowden use is possible at slow speeds (15–20 mm/s) with minimal retraction — this is one of the more Bowden-friendly TPUs available. Print slowly and avoid retracting more than 2mm.

PolyMax PC

Nozzle temp250–310°CStart at 270°C

Bed temp90–120°CStart at 100°C

Retraction0.4–1 mm (DD)

Fan30%

Print speed30–60 mm/s

PolyMax PC is Polymaker's premium polycarbonate — higher impact strength than PC Blend. Requires enclosure, all-metal hot end (hardened recommended), and 270°C minimum. Build plate adhesion is best on smooth PEI with 100°C + glue stick.

PolyMide PA12-CF

Nozzle temp260–280°CStart at 270°C

Bed temp70–90°CStart at 80°C

Retraction0.4–0.8 mm (DD)

Fan20%

Print speed30–60 mm/s

Carbon fiber reinforced Nylon 12. Requires hardened/stainless steel nozzle — CF will abrade brass in a single spool. Dry thoroughly (72h at 70°C) before printing. Enclosure strongly recommended.