Filament Cost Calculator
Type in what you paid for the spool and how much the model weighs. The calculator returns the cost of that print and how far one roll will take you.
| Model weight | Cost per print |
|---|---|
| 20 g | $0.53 |
| 50 g | $1.31 |
| 100 g | $2.63 |
| 200 g | $5.25 |
What the numbers mean
Cost per gram is the number to remember. It turns any roll into a simple rate, so a $25 spool of 1000 g is 2.5 cents per gram. Once you know that, you can price any model by the grams your slicer reports, and a heavier part costing more makes instant sense.
Where the failure rate comes from
Prints fail, and every failed print still uses filament. A first layer that lifts, a support that snaps, or a clog midway all waste plastic. Setting the failure rate to about 5 percent is a fair starting point for a tuned printer, and 10 percent or more is honest for a new machine or a fussy material.
Ways to lower your cost per print
Use less infill on display pieces, because the shell does most of the work. Pick a cheaper spool for practice models and save the good roll for parts you keep. Print a few small items together to cut warm-up and purge waste. Each of those trims the cost without touching your printer.
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Questions about this calculator
How much does it cost to 3D print something?
The filament is the main cost. At $25 for a 1 kg spool, a 50 g print costs about $1.25 in plastic. Add a little for failed prints and small parts usually land under a few dollars each.
How do I work out the cost per gram of filament?
Divide the spool price by the spool weight in grams. A $25 spool that holds 1000 g costs 2.5 cents per gram. Then multiply by the grams your slicer reports for the model.
Why does the calculator add a failure rate?
Prints fail sometimes, and every failed print still burns filament. A 5 percent rate means you spend about 5 percent more per finished part. Raise it to 10 percent for tricky overhangs or a new material.
How many prints can I get from one spool?
Divide the spool weight by the grams each print uses after waste. A 1 kg spool gives about 19 prints of a 50 g model at a 5 percent failure rate. Smaller models stretch the same spool much further.
Does infill change the filament cost?
Yes. Less infill uses less plastic. A hollow display piece can use a third of the filament of a solid functional part. Check the slicer estimate before you commit to a long print.
Is PETG more expensive to print than PLA?
Not much per part. Rolls cost about the same by weight, and both use a similar amount for the same model. The real differences come from failed first layers and drying, not the sticker price.
Should I count electricity in the cost?
Electricity is small next to filament. A printer drawing around 100 watts for a few hours costs only a few cents. Focus on plastic, failures, and your time instead.