ABS vs ASA: Which to Pick for Your Print
Why they print so similarly
ASA is essentially ABS with a UV-stable resin (acrylonitrile styrene acrylate vs acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). The print behaviour is nearly identical: 240 to 260 C nozzle, 95 to 110 C bed, enclosure required, layer fan off. If you can print ABS, you can print ASA without changing any settings.
Where ASA wins
- Direct sunlight exposure
- Outdoor signage and fittings
- Automotive exterior trim
- Garden hose connectors, sprinkler caps
- Anything stored in a car or shed in summer
Where ABS is still the right call
- Indoor functional parts (cost saving)
- Vapour smoothing (acetone works on both but ABS results are more reliable)
- Lego-style bricks for indoor use
- Tool housings and electronics enclosures (indoor)
Smell
Both smell during printing. ASA's smell is slightly milder and less acrid than ABS, but neither should be used in an unventilated room without a filter. An enclosure with a HEPA + carbon filter handles both.