3D printers can use a variety of materials, including plastics, metals, and composites. The most common material used in 3D printing is plastic, specifically polymer plastics like ABS and PLA. These plastics come in filaments or resins and are heated as they pass through the print extruder and shaped as they’re laid down on top of the previous layer. Other materials that are now used for 3D printing include metal, carbon fiber, and even wood. However, the prosumer and consumer markets are still limited mostly to polymers for now. Different 3D printing materials and plastic 3D printing processes have their own strengths and weaknesses that define their suitability for different applications. The choice of material depends on the desired mechanical properties, functional characteristics, or looks of the final product.