How Much Does 3D Printer Filament Cost?
How much does 3D printer filament cost? I get this question all the time from fellow makers.
As someone who’s been 3D printing for 7 years and sells prints, I’ve got the inside scoop on filament prices.
The Basics of Filament Pricing
Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £15 to £50 for a 1kg spool of filament. But there’s a lot more to it than that. Let’s break it down:
- PLA: $15-$30 per kg
- ABS: $20-$35 per kg
- PETG: $20-$40 per kg
- TPU: $25-$50 per kg
- Specialty filaments: $30-$100+ per kg
Keep in mind, these are ballpark figures. Prices can vary based on brand, quality, and where you buy from.
Factors That Affect Filament Cost
Not all filament is created equal. Here’s what impacts the price:
Material Type
PLA is usually the cheapest, while exotic materials like carbon fiber or metal-filled filaments cost more.
Quality
Higher quality filaments with tighter diameter tolerances and fewer impurities cost more but give better prints. It’s worth it if you’re selling prints or need consistent results.
Brand
Big names like Prusament or Polymaker often charge more, but you’re paying for reliability and customer support.
Quantity
Buying in bulk can save you money. I often grab 5kg spools of my go-to filaments to cut costs.
Where to Buy Filament
You’ve got options when it comes to buying filament:
- Online marketplaces (Amazon, eBay)
- 3D printing specialty stores
- Direct from manufacturers
- Local maker spaces or 3D printing shops
I’ve found some great deals on Amazon, but be careful of super cheap filaments – they can cause more headaches than they’re worth.
Check out our guide on cheap PLA filament on Amazon for some tips.
Saving Money on Filament
Want to stretch your filament budget? Try these tricks:
- Buy in bulk when you find a good deal
- Use less infill in your prints (20% is often enough)
- Print with a larger nozzle for faster prints and less wasted filament
- Recycle failed prints with a filament recycler
- Join a 3D printing group to share bulk orders (check out our Facebook community with over 100,000 members)
Is Expensive Filament Worth It?
Sometimes, yes.
But for most hobbyist prints, the mid-range filament is fine. But if you’re selling prints or need specific properties, premium filament can be worth the extra cost.
I learned this the hard way when I tried to save money on cheap filament for a big order. The prints came out inconsistent, and I had to redo half of them. Now I stick to quality filament for client work.
The Hidden Costs of Filament
Don’t forget about these when budgeting:
- Shipping costs (especially for heavy spools)
- Storage solutions to keep filament dry
- Potential waste from failed prints or purging
A filament dryer like the PolyDryer can help extend the life of your filament and improve print quality.
FAQs
How long does a 1kg spool of filament last?
It depends on what you’re printing, but for me, a 1kg spool usually lasts about 30-40 hours of print time.
Can I use cheap filament in an expensive printer?
You can, but you might not get the best results. High-end printers often work best with quality filament.
Is it cheaper to make your own filament?
Not really, unless you’re recycling a lot of plastic. The equipment and time investment usually outweigh the savings for most makers.
Can I print food-safe objects with regular filament?
Not really. While some filaments are labeled food-safe, the printing process can create small gaps where bacteria can grow. For food-related items, it’s best to use a food-safe coating.
How do I know if my filament has gone bad?
Look for signs like brittleness, discoloration, or a rough texture. If you hear popping sounds while printing, that’s often a sign of moisture in the filament.
Is it worth buying a filament dryer?
If you live in a humid area or work with moisture-sensitive materials like nylon, absolutely. It can significantly improve print quality and extend the life of your filament.
The Bottom Line
Filament costs can add up, but they’re just one part of the 3D printing equation. Focus on finding a balance between quality and price that works for your projects. And remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the most cost-effective in the long run.
If you’re looking to get more out of your filament, check out our guide on 10 little-known hacks to make your 3D printer faster. Speed and efficiency can help you save on material costs too.
How much does 3D printer filament cost? Now you know it’s not just about the price tag, but about value, quality, and what works best for your 3D printing needs.
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