The cost of 3D printer filament varies depending on the type, quality, brand, and quantity of the material. On average, a 1 kg spool of PLA or ABS filament costs around $20 to $30. However, some specialty filaments, such as flexible, metal-filled, or glow-in-the-dark, can cost up to $100 or more per kg.
In this article, we will explore the factors that affect the price of 3D printer filament, how to choose the best filament for your needs, and how to save money on filament without compromising on quality.
Factors that affect the price of 3D printer filament
There are several factors that influence the cost of 3D printer filament, such as:
Type: The most common types of 3D printer filament are PLA and ABS, which are thermoplastic polymers that can be melted and extruded by the printer nozzle. PLA is derived from renewable sources, such as corn starch or sugar cane, and is biodegradable and eco-friendly. ABS is made from petroleum-based chemicals and is more durable and heat-resistant than PLA. Both PLA and ABS are relatively cheap and easy to print with, and are suitable for a wide range of applications. However, there are also other types of filament that offer different properties and effects, such as PETG, nylon, wood, carbon fiber, metal, silk, and more. These filaments are usually more expensive and require more specific printing settings and equipment.
Quality: The quality of 3D printer filament can vary greatly depending on the manufacturing process, the raw materials, and the quality control. High-quality filament should have consistent diameter, color, and composition throughout the spool, and should not have any impurities, bubbles, or moisture. Low-quality filament can cause printing problems, such as clogging, warping, stringing, or poor adhesion. Quality filament also ensures better accuracy, strength, and appearance of the printed objects. To ensure quality, it is advisable to buy filament from reputable brands that have good reviews and ratings from customers and experts.
Brand: The brand of 3D printer filament can also affect the price, as some brands are more established and trusted than others. Some well-known brands of filament are Hatchbox, eSun, Prusament, MatterHackers, and Proto-Pasta. These brands have a reputation for producing high-quality filament that is compatible with most 3D printers and offers reliable performance and results. However, there are also some generic or lesser-known brands that offer cheaper filament, but may have lower quality or compatibility. It is important to do some research and compare the features and specifications of different brands before buying filament.
Quantity: The quantity of 3D printer filament can also influence the cost, as buying in bulk can often result in lower prices per unit. Most filament is sold in spools of 1 kg, which can last for several prints depending on the size and complexity of the models. However, some filament is also available in smaller or larger spools, such as 0.5 kg, 2 kg, or 5 kg. Buying larger spools can be more economical and convenient, especially if you print frequently or with large models. However, buying smaller spools can be more flexible and allow you to try different colors or types of filament without wasting too much material.
Choosing the best filament for your needs depends on several factors, such as:
Printer compatibility: Not all filament types are compatible with all 3D printers, as some printers may have specific requirements or limitations for the nozzle size, temperature, speed, and bed adhesion. For example, some printers may not be able to print with high-temperature filaments, such as nylon or polycarbonate, without upgrading the hotend or adding a cooling fan. Some printers may also require a heated bed or an enclosure to print with filaments that are prone to warping or cracking, such as ABS or PETG. It is important to check the specifications and recommendations of your printer before buying filament, and to adjust the printing settings accordingly.
Application and purpose: Different filaments have different properties and characteristics that make them suitable for different applications and purposes. For example, PLA is ideal for prototyping, decorative, or educational prints, as it is easy to print with, has a smooth and glossy finish, and comes in a variety of colors and effects. ABS is better for functional or mechanical prints, as it is more durable, heat-resistant, and impact-resistant than PLA. Nylon is great for flexible or wear-resistant prints, as it has high tensile strength, elasticity, and abrasion resistance. Wood filament can create realistic and natural-looking prints, as it contains actual wood fibers that can be sanded, stained, or painted. Metal filament can create metallic and shiny prints, as it contains metal powders that can be polished or aged. The choice of filament depends on the desired look, feel, and function of the print, as well as the budget and availability of the material.
Personal preference and taste: Ultimately, the choice of filament also depends on your personal preference and taste, as you may have a favorite color, texture, or effect that you want to achieve with your prints. There are many options and variations of filament that can cater to different styles and preferences, such as glow-in-the-dark, transparent, glitter, marble, rainbow, and more. You can also mix and match different filaments to create unique and customized prints, such as using dual extrusion, swapping filaments mid-print, or painting or post-processing the prints. The possibilities are endless, and you can experiment and have fun with different filaments to express your creativity and personality.
How to save money on filament without compromising on quality
3D printer filament can be a significant expense for 3D printing enthusiasts, especially if you print often or with large models. However, there are some ways to save money on filament without compromising on quality, such as:
Buy in bulk: As mentioned earlier, buying filament in larger quantities can result in lower prices per unit, as you can benefit from discounts, deals, or free shipping. However, you should only buy in bulk if you are sure that you will use the filament within a reasonable time, as filament can degrade or spoil if stored improperly or for too long. You should also store the filament in a cool, dry, and dark place, and use airtight containers or bags with silica gel packets to prevent moisture absorption or dust accumulation.
Use recycled or reclaimed filament: Another way to save money on filament is to use recycled or reclaimed filament, which is made from discarded or leftover plastic materials, such as bottles, bags, or scraps. You can either buy recycled filament from some manufacturers or vendors, or make your own using a filament extruder or recycler. Recycled filament can be cheaper and more eco-friendly than virgin filament, as it reduces plastic waste and saves energy and resources. However, recycled filament may have lower quality or consistency than virgin filament, as it may contain impurities, contaminants, or color variations. You should also check the compatibility and safety of recycled filament with your printer and nozzle, as some plastics may release harmful fumes or damage the printer components.
Use less filament: The most obvious way to save money on filament is to use less filament, which can be achieved by optimizing the printing settings and parameters, such as:
Layer height: The layer height is the thickness of each layer that the printer extrudes, and it affects the resolution, speed, and material usage of the print. A lower layer height can produce finer and smoother prints, but it also takes longer and uses more filament. A higher layer height can produce faster and coarser prints, but it also uses less filament. You can adjust the layer height according to the level of detail and quality that you need for your print, and use a lower layer height for the visible or critical parts, and a higher layer height for the hidden or less important parts.
Infill density: The infill density is the percentage of the interior volume of the print that is filled with filament, and it affects the strength, weight, and material usage of the print. A higher infill density can produce stronger and heavier prints, but it also uses more filament. A lower infill density can produce lighter and weaker prints, but it also uses less filament. You can adjust the infill density according to the function and purpose of your print, and use a higher infill density for the parts that need more support or durability, and a lower infill density for the parts that are more decorative or hollow.
Supports and rafts: Supports and rafts are additional structures that the printer adds to the print to prevent sagging, warping, or curling of the overhanging or uneven parts. Supports and rafts can improve the quality and stability of the print, but they also use more filament and require more post-processing to remove. You can reduce the use of supports and rafts by orienting the model in a way that minimizes the overhangs or gaps, or by using soluble or breakaway supports that can be easily dissolved or detached. You can also adjust the settings of the supports and rafts, such as the density, pattern, or distance, to use less filament and improve the removal process.
In conclusion, 3D printer filament is an important factor that affects the cost, quality, and appearance of 3D prints. By understanding the different types, qualities, brands, and quantities of filament, you can choose the best filament for your needs and preferences. You can also save money on filament without compromising on quality by buying in bulk, using recycled or reclaimed filament, or optimizing the printing settings and parameters. 3D printing is a fun and creative hobby that allows you to make anything you can imagine, and by choosing the right filament, you can enhance your 3D printing experience and results.
