3D Printing True Cost Estimator Calculator

📖 Overview

This calculator converts print specs into true per print spend.

It combines filament use machine power and utility rate so makers can price prints correctly and compare process choices.

Use these default and higher-pressure example inputs to explore how sensitive this calculator is before using your real numbers.

Estimates real 3D print cost by combining material consumption and electricity consumption over the actual runtime.

The Formula

Total Cost = (Weight/1000 × Filament $/kg) + (Hours × Watts/1000 × $/kWh)

Print Weight	Final material used in grams
Filament Cost/kg	Current cost per kilogram for selected filament
Print Time	Full printer runtime for the job in hours
Power Draw	Average printer wattage during run
Electricity Rate	Local utility rate per kWh

💡When comparing slicer settings include failed prints and support waste in your total unit economics. Hidden waste often dominates quoted costs.

Weight	Filament $/kg	Energy Cost	Estimated Total
40g	$22	$0.09	$0.97
120g	$24	$0.22	$3.10
260g	$28	$0.45	$7.73

Use this tool when you need a fast decision during active planning or execution.
Use this before committing money, time, or tradeoffs that are hard to reverse.
Use this to compare options using the same assumptions across scenarios.

Results can be misleading if key inputs are missing, stale, or unrealistic.
Very small or very large values may amplify rounding effects and interpretation risk.
If assumptions change mid-decision, recalculate before acting.

💡 Measure real watt draw with a smart plug for better estimates.

💡 Track support-to-model ratio to reduce avoidable material burn.

💡 Use this output to set profitable print pricing floors.

❓ Does this include printer wear and maintenance?

No. Add depreciation and maintenance separately for business pricing.

❓ Why is energy cost sometimes small?

For short prints material often dominates but long heated prints increase energy share quickly.