3D printing cost: what a printed part costs

How much does 3D printing cost: the drivers

• Process: FDM is the cheapest, SLS and MJF cost more but need no supports, SLA costs the most and gives the smoothest surface.
• Volume and infill: more material and longer print time raise the price.
• Orientation and supports: overhangs in FDM and SLA need supports that are printed and removed.
• Finishing: sanding, smoothing, dyeing and painting.
• Quantity: in SLS and MJF the partner nests many parts in one build, so the unit price drops.

3D printing cost by process

FDM (PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA, TPU)

Lowest price for prototypes and larger, simple parts. Layers are visible.

SLS and MJF (PA12)

Higher price per single part, best value for short runs and functional parts.

SLA (resins)

Highest price per volume, in return the finest detail and a smooth surface.

Why price per gram misleads

A price per gram describes the material, not print time, supports or finishing. A small, complex part with supports can cost more than a larger, simple one. That is why partners quote your actual part, and the price in the quote is the final price for the batch, shipping included.

How to lower the cost

• Choose the cheapest process that meets the requirements: FDM is usually enough for a form prototype.
• Reduce volume: hollow interiors and thinner walls, but not too thin (at least 1.2 mm in FDM and SLS).
• Order more parts at once or a series order with a fixed batch price.
• Mark visible surfaces in the notes so the partner orients the part with support marks where they do not matter.

Ordering from the EU

Customers from anywhere in the EU order online: upload the file, get an instant price or one from the tender, pay in EUR. Businesses with a valid EU VAT number get an invoice without Polish VAT, private persons see gross prices.