A 3D printing cost calculator is an essential digital tool designed to estimate the total expenses involved in 3D printing projects before you start printing. This calculator helps makers, businesses, and hobbyists determine accurate pricing for their 3D prints by analyzing multiple cost factors.
3D Printing Cost Calculator:
Get accurate pricing for your 3D prints
How to Calculate 3D Print Costs
Use this formula to estimate expenses:
Total Cost = (Material Cost + Machine Time Cost) + Labor/Post-Processing + Design Fees
Step-by-Step Calculation:
- Material Cost
Example: PLA filament costs ~$20/kg.
Calculate: (Print Weight in Grams ÷ 1,000) × Filament Price per KG
A 50g print:
(50 ÷ 1,000) × $20 = $1.00
- Machine Time Cost
Factors: Printer depreciation, electricity ($0.10–$0.30/hour).
Calculate: (Print Time in Hours) × (Electricity Rate + Printer Hourly Depreciation)
5-hour print at $0.20/hour = $1.00.
- Labor & Post-Processing
Sanding, painting, or assembly adds $5–$50+ depending on complexity.
- Design Fees (If applicable)
Custom 3D modeling: $10–$100/hour.
What Impacts 3D Printing Costs?
Key factors that raise or lower prices:
- Filament Type (PLA vs. exotic carbon fiber)
- Print Density: Hollow designs save 30–50% in material.
- Layer Height: Thinner layers = higher precision but longer print times.
- Printer Type: Industrial SLS machines cost 10x more than desktop FDM.
5 Proven Ways to Slash 3D Printing Costs
- Optimize Orientation: Rotate designs to minimize supports.
- Go Hollow: Reduce infill density (10–20% for non-structural parts).
- Batch Printing: Fill the build plate to share machine costs.
- Use Standard Filaments: Avoid metallics/specialty materials unless essential.
- Maintain Your Printer: Clean nozzles and calibrated beds prevent failed prints = zero waste!
Whether you’re selling prints or managing costs for personal projects, knowing how to calculate 3D print cost gives you a serious advantage. By considering every factor — from filament to your time — you can price fairly and avoid surprises.