Filament Cost Calculator
Estimate the true cost of your 3D prints — filament, electricity, and per-print breakdown.
Print Parameters
Select your filament material (price per kg shown)
Weight of filament used per print
How many copies of this print
Your electricity rate per kilowatt-hour
Estimated hours per print
Average power consumption of your printer
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does PLA filament cost per 3D print?
PLA typically costs around $20 per kilogram. A small print using 50 grams of PLA costs roughly $1 in filament alone, plus a few cents for electricity.
Is PETG more expensive than PLA for 3D printing?
Yes, PETG usually costs about 25 percent more than PLA per kilogram. However, its superior heat resistance and durability can make it more cost-effective for functional parts.
How much electricity does a 3D printer use per print?
A typical FDM printer draws 150 to 300 watts. A four-hour print on a 200-watt printer at 12 cents per kWh costs roughly 10 cents in electricity.
Does infill percentage affect filament cost?
Absolutely. Reducing infill from 100 percent to 20 percent can cut filament usage by more than half. Most decorative prints only need 15 to 20 percent infill.
What is the cheapest filament type for 3D printing?
PLA is generally the cheapest filament at around $15 to $25 per kilogram. It is also the easiest to print, making it ideal for beginners and prototyping.