If you’re into 3D printing, you need filament that’s reliable, versatile, and won’t break the bank. SUNLU filament checks all those boxes and more. I’ve been printing with it for years, and it’s become my go-to for everything from detailed models to everyday projects.
With vibrant colors, smooth prints, and a price that’s hard to beat, SUNLU is a game-changer for beginners and pros alike.
Trust me, you’ll want to stock up on this filament to fuel your creative 3D printing journey!
My Journey With SUNLU Filament
I remember the first time I loaded SUNLU PLA filament into my Bambu X1 Carbon.
I was a bit skeptical—after all, I’d had my share of filament woes with other brands, from stringing nightmares to warped prints that made me want to chuck my printer out the window.
But SUNLU?
It was like a breath of fresh air. I started with their vibrant red PLA for a small figurine project, setting my nozzle to 220°C and bed to 60°C, as recommended.
The filament fed smoothly, no clogs or tangles, and the layers stacked up like a dream. The final print was crisp, with details so sharp I could hardly believe it came off my FDM printer.
Since then, I’ve burned through dozens of SUNLU spools—black, silver, even their clear PLA for a lightsaber hilt that looked almost glass-like after some tweaking. I’ve run my printers non-stop for hours, and SUNLU’s consistency has never let me down. The colors pop, the adhesion is spot-on, and I rarely deal with failed prints.
One time, I printed a complex mechanical part with overhangs, expecting a mess. Nope—SUNLU handled it with minimal stringing and a finish so smooth I barely needed to sand. It’s not just filament; it’s a partner in my 3D printing adventures, making every project feel effortless and fun.
What stands out most is how forgiving SUNLU is. Whether I’m rushing a quick prototype or obsessing over a detailed miniature, it delivers. I’ve even used it on my older Ender 3 with a PEI sheet, and the results were just as impressive.
It’s like SUNLU’s filament is designed to make you look good, no matter your skill level or setup. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth a try, let me save you the suspense: it absolutely is.
Pros of SUNLU Filament: Why It’s A Cut Above
- Exceptional Print Quality
Let’s talk about the prints. SUNLU PLA delivers smooth, precise layers that make your models look like they belong in a showroom.
I’ve printed everything from tiny gears to large cosplay props, and the details are always sharp.
The filament’s dimensional accuracy—boasting a tight ±0.02mm tolerance—means you get consistent results every time.
No weird blobs or uneven surfaces. Even when I push my printer to higher speeds (around 80mm/s), SUNLU keeps up, producing clean lines and minimal artifacts. It’s like having a professional-grade filament at a budget price.
- Vibrant and Diverse Color Options
SUNLU’s color range is a candy store for 3D printing nerds like me. From bold reds to subtle ivories, they’ve got over 26 shades for their standard PLA and 60 for PLA+. I recently used their silver PLA for a lightsaber project, and the metallic sheen was stunning—almost like it was painted.
The colors are rich and consistent across spools, so you don’t get that annoying shade variation mid-project. Plus, their clear PLA is a gem for translucent effects, especially if you tweak your settings for 100% infill. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a project SUNLU’s palette can’t handle.
- Reliable and Tangle-Free Spools
One of my biggest pet peeves is filament that tangles mid-print, turning a fun session into a swearing match with my printer. SUNLU’s neatly wound spools are a lifesaver. Their self-developed winding tech ensures a 100% neat rate, and I’ve never had a single tangle, even on long prints.
The spool design is practical, too, with a 2.2-inch hub hole that fits most printers and wide holes for gauging how much filament’s left. It’s a small thing, but when you’re deep in a 39-hour print, it’s a godsend.
- Beginner-Friendly and Versatile
Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve got a print farm like me, SUNLU PLA is a breeze to work with. It doesn’t demand a fancy setup—no heated bed required, though I use one at 50-65°C for better adhesion.
The filament’s low melting point (200-230°C) means it’s energy-efficient and safe for indoor use, with no toxic fumes. I’ve used it on everything from a basic Ender 3 to a high-end Bambu X1, and it performs like a champ. It’s forgiving enough for newbies but reliable enough for pros tackling complex prints.
- Cost-Effective Without Compromising Quality
Let’s be real: 3D printing can get pricey, especially if you’re churning out models like I do. SUNLU PLA starts at just $12.99/kg, and PLA+ is only a buck more.
That’s a steal for the quality you’re getting. I’ve spent more on lesser filaments that clogged my nozzle or warped like crazy.
SUNLU gives you premium performance without the premium price tag, making it perfect for hobbyists and small businesses alike. You can print to your heart’s content without worrying about your wallet taking a hit.
Not-So-Good Parts: Where SUNLU Could Improve?
- Occasional Bed Adhesion Issues
SUNLU PLA usually sticks like a dream, but I’ve had a few hiccups, especially with their PLA+ on smaller footprints. On my Prusa MK3S, I once printed a thin base that peeled up mid-print, even with a clean PEI sheet and 60°C bed temp.
Bumping the nozzle to 230°C and adding a raft fixed it, but it was a hassle. Some users report similar issues, suggesting SUNLU’s PLA+ might have an additive that doesn’t always play nice with certain beds. A glue stick or 3DLac spray usually solves it, but it’s an extra step you might not expect.
- Limited Overhang Performance
SUNLU PLA handles most geometries well, but it’s not the best for extreme overhangs. I tried printing a model with 60° overhangs without supports, and the results were droopy—definitely not Instagram-worthy.
Increasing fan speed helped, but it still lagged behind some premium filaments like Prusament. If your designs lean heavily on unsupported overhangs, you’ll need to tweak your settings or lean on supports more than you might with other brands.
It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind for complex prints.
- Spool Durability Concerns
While SUNLU’s spools are neatly wound, the cardboard spools themselves can be a bit flimsy. I’ve had a couple arrive slightly crushed after shipping, which made them wobble on my Bambu X1’s AMS. It didn’t affect printing, but it was annoying.
Some users on forums like Reddit have reported similar issues, especially with high-speed printers. Plastic spools would be sturdier, but I get that cardboard is eco-friendlier. Just handle them with care, and you should be fine.
- Color Consistency Across Batches
SUNLU’s colors are gorgeous, but I’ve noticed slight variations between batches. For example, I ordered two spools of their black PLA+ six months apart, and one had a slightly glossier finish. It wasn’t a huge deal for my projects, but if you’re matching colors for a multi-part print, it could be a headache.
This isn’t unique to SUNLU—many budget brands have this issue—but it’s worth noting if you’re obsessive about color matching.
Tips: Keeping Your SUNLU Filament In Top Shape
- Store It Right to Avoid Moisture
SUNLU PLA and ABS are hygroscopic, meaning they suck up moisture like a sponge. I learned this the hard way when I left a spool out for a week and got brittle prints with popping sounds during extrusion. Keep your filament in airtight bags with silica gel packets when not in use.
I use SUNLU’s S2 Filament Dryer for extra peace of mind—it’s a game-changer for drying out spools before printing, especially in humid climates. Set it to 45-55°C for PLA or 65-70°C for ABS, and let it run for 4-6 hours.
- Calibrate Your Printer for Optimal Results
SUNLU’s recommended settings (200-230°C nozzle, 50-65°C bed) are a great starting point, but every printer’s different. I always print a temperature tower to dial in the sweet spot—usually around 220°C for my Bambu X1.
If you’re getting stringing, lower the temp by 5°C or increase retraction. For bed adhesion issues, try cleaning your bed with isopropyl alcohol or adding a thin layer of glue stick. A well-calibrated printer makes SUNLU shine, so don’t skip this step.
- Handle Spools with Care
Those cardboard spools are eco-friendly but not indestructible. I’ve had a few dent during shipping, which can mess with your AMS or spool holder. Inspect your spools when they arrive, and if they’re damaged, transfer the filament to a sturdier plastic spool.
When loading, make sure the filament feeds smoothly to avoid tangles. If you’re using a high-speed printer, keep an eye on the spool to ensure it’s spinning freely—wobbly spools can cause under-extrusion.
- Clean Your Nozzle Regularly
SUNLU’s filament is clean and clog-free, but any PLA or ABS can leave residue over time, especially if you switch between materials. I clean my nozzle every few spools using a cold pull with nylon filament or a dedicated cleaning filament.
If you notice inconsistent extrusion, check for buildup and run a quick cleaning cycle. For ABS, keep your hotend at 250°C during cleaning to clear out any stubborn bits. A clean nozzle keeps your SUNLU prints looking pristine.
- Experiment with Settings for Special Effects
Want to take your SUNLU prints to the next level? Play with your settings! For their clear PLA, I’ve gotten glass-like results by using 100% infill and slowing my print speed to 40mm/s. For vibrant colors, try a slightly higher temp (225°C) to enhance the gloss.
If you’re printing ABS, an enclosure helps prevent warping, but SUNLU’s low-temp formula means you can often skip it for smaller parts. Don’t be afraid to tweak—SUNLU’s forgiving nature makes experimentation fun and rewarding.
Comparison With Other Brands: How SUNLU Stacks Up?
Let’s put SUNLU PLA and ABS head-to-head with other popular filament brands—Inland, ELEGOO, Kingroon, and Overture. I’ve used all these on my printers, so here’s the real scoop on how they stack up in key areas.
- SUNLU Vs. Inland Filament
Inland, sold by Micro Center, is a budget king, often priced at $10-12/kg for PLA.
I’ve printed with their PLA on my Ender 3, and it’s decent—good adhesion and minimal stringing.
But Inland’s color options are limited (think basic reds and blues), and I’ve had spools with inconsistent diameters that caused under-extrusion mid-print.
SUNLU’s ±0.02mm tolerance blows Inland out of the water for consistency, and its 26+ color range is a creative playground.
For ABS, Inland’s version needs higher temps (240-260°C), while SUNLU’s 225-235°C is easier on your printer. If you’re near a Micro Center and need filament ASAP, Inland’s fine, but SUNLU’s reliability and variety make it my pick.
- SUNLU Vs. ELEGOO Filament
ELEGOO’s PLA is marketed for their own printers, but it works well on others, like my Bambu X1.
Priced around $15-18/kg, it’s slightly pricier than SUNLU’s $12.99/kg.
ELEGOO’s PLA prints smoothly with vibrant colors, but I’ve noticed more stringing than with SUNLU, especially at higher speeds (80mm/s).
Their ABS is solid for functional parts, with good strength, but it warps more than SUNLU’s if you don’t have an enclosure.
ELEGOO’s spools are plastic, which is sturdier than SUNLU’s cardboard, but SUNLU’s tangle-free winding gives it an edge for long prints.
For general use, SUNLU’s affordability and consistency win out, though ELEGOO’s a close second for ELEGOO printer owners.
- SUNLU Vs. Kingroon Filament
Kingroon’s filament is a lesser-known player, often found on Amazon for $12-14/kg.
I tried their PLA for a cosplay prop, and while the colors were bold, the filament was brittle, snapping during a 20-hour print.
Their ABS is decent but prone to humidity issues, even with proper storage.
SUNLU’s PLA is far more durable—I’ve bent prints in the “weak” direction with no breaks—and its ABS resists moisture better.
Kingroon’s spools are also messily wound, leading to tangles, while SUNLU’s neat winding is flawless. Unless you’re on a super tight budget, SUNLU’s superior quality and reliability make it the clear choice over Kingroon.
- SUNLU Vs. Overture Filament
Overture’s PLA, priced at $14-16/kg, is a strong contender with good bed adhesion and vibrant colors.
I’ve used it for functional parts, but some spools clogged my nozzle, unlike SUNLU’s consistent performance.
Overture’s ABS is tough but needs higher temps (245-265°C) and an enclosure to avoid warping, while SUNLU’s lower-temp ABS is more forgiving.
Overture’s plastic spools are durable, but their winding can be sloppy, causing jams.
SUNLU’s cardboard spools are less sturdy but perfectly wound. For everyday printing, SUNLU’s lower cost and hassle-free experience give it the edge, especially for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Absolutely, SUNLU filament is high quality, especially for the price. I’ve used their PLA and PLA+ for years, and the print quality rivals more expensive brands. With tight dimensional accuracy (±0.02mm), vibrant colors, and minimal stringing, it’s reliable for both casual and professional projects. While it may not match premium filaments like Prusament in every scenario, its consistency and affordability make it a top choice for most 3D printing needs.
SUNLU’s ABS filament is a solid performer. It’s humidity-resistant, prints at lower temps (225-235°C), and delivers strong, durable parts. I’ve used it for functional prototypes with great results—good adhesion and low shrinkage. It’s not as tough as some high-end ABS brands for extreme applications, but for most projects, it’s reliable and beginner-friendly. Just ensure good ventilation due to fumes, and you’re set.
Yes, SUNLU is a Chinese company based in Zhuhai, Guangdong. They’ve been in the 3D printing game for over a decade, producing filaments, printers, and accessories. Despite the “Made in China” label, their quality control is impressive, and they’ve built a strong reputation worldwide for affordable, reliable products. I’ve never felt their origin compromises performance.
The “best” filament brand depends on your needs. For value and versatility, I’d argue SUNLU is tough to beat—its PLA and ABS offer great quality at $12.99-13.99/kg. Prusament is tops for precision and color consistency but costs more. Hatchbox and eSun are solid alternatives, though they can be less consistent. If you’re after budget-friendly reliability for everyday printing, SUNLU’s my pick, but experiment with a few brands to find your perfect match.
Conclusion: Make SUNLU Your 3D Printing Sidekick
You’ve heard my story, and I’ll say it again: SUNLU filament is a must-have for any 3D printing enthusiast. Its unbeatable combo of quality, affordability, and ease of use makes it a no-brainer for beginners and seasoned makers alike.
From vibrant PLA to durable ABS, SUNLU fuels your creativity without draining your wallet. Grab a spool (or ten) and see why it’s my go-to for every project. Your printer will thank you, and your prints will steal the show!