Calculate it
-prints from this spool
-filament cost per print
-left over after the last print
Examples for a 1 kg spool
| Weight | Number of prints | Filament per print | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Keychain | 5 g | 190 | € 0.11 |
| 3DBenchy (test boat) | 15 g | 63 | € 0.32 |
| Phone stand | 30 g | 31 | € 0.63 |
| Small plant pot | 60 g | 15 | € 1.26 |
| Vase (spiral mode) | 80 g | 11 | € 1.68 |
| Storage tray | 150 g | 6 | € 3.16 |
| Helmet or large cosplay prop | 800 g | 1 | € 16.84 |
Based on a 1 kg spool for € 20 and 5 percent failed prints and waste.
Where does filament get lost?
- Failed prints: a first layer that comes loose or a clogged nozzle immediately costs all the filament used up to that point.
- Supports and brims: they count towards the weight your slicer shows, but you throw them away.
- Colour changes: with an AMS or MMU, filament is lost to purging at every change.
- The last bit of the spool: often too short for a whole print.
Read also
Frequently asked questions
How many prints do you get from 1 kg of filament?
That depends on the weight of your print. You get a 30 gram phone stand about 31 times from a 1 kg spool, if you allow 5 percent for failed prints and waste. A 5 gram keychain about 190 times.
How do I know how much a print weighs?
Your slicer (Bambu Studio, OrcaSlicer, PrusaSlicer or Cura) shows the weight after slicing. You can also upload your STL file to the calculator on this site; it estimates the weight.
Is filament wasted when printing in multiple colours?
Yes. When printing with an AMS or MMU, filament is lost to purging at every colour change. That can add up to more than the weight of the print itself. In that case, use a higher waste percentage.
Calculate the real cost
Filament is only part of the cost. The calculator also includes electricity, wear and failed prints.