Material comparison
ASA vs ABS
ASA is essentially ABS built for the sun — the same formability and toughness, plus outstanding UV and weather resistance. ABS is the indoor default; ASA is for anything outdoors.
ASA vs ABS — side by side
| ASA | ABS | |
|---|---|---|
| UV / weather | Excellent — colour-fast | Poor — yellows outdoors |
| Formability | ABS-like | Excellent |
| Impact | Good | Higher (impact grades) |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Typical use | EV/vehicle exteriors, signage, outdoor covers | Indoor housings, covers, trim |
Choose ASA when…
- Outdoor and exterior parts that must keep colour/gloss
- EV and vehicle body panels, signage, marine
- No-paint weatherable surfaces
Choose ABS when…
- Indoor housings, covers and trim
- Lower cost where UV is not a factor
- Parts that will be painted
The verdict: Use ABS indoors; switch to ASA (or a PMMA cap) whenever the part lives outdoors and must hold its colour and gloss for years.
Frequently asked
Why choose ASA over ABS outdoors?
ASA keeps colour, gloss and strength under UV and weather, where plain ABS yellows and chalks — and it needs no protective paint.
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