3D printing has become increasingly popular in recent years, and with it, the demand for 3D printer filament has also risen. Filament is the material that is used to create the 3D printed object, and it is available in a variety of materials such as ABS, PLA, PETG, and more. One of the most common questions among 3D printing enthusiasts is how much does 3D printer filament cost?

The cost of 3D printer filament can vary depending on the material, brand, and supplier. Generally, PLA filament is the most affordable and widely available, with prices ranging from $15 to $50 per kilogram. ABS filament is slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from $20 to $60 per kilogram. Other materials such as PETG, nylon, and TPU can be more expensive, with prices ranging from $30 to $100 per kilogram. However, it’s important to note that the price of filament can also depend on the quality and consistency of the material.

What is 3D Printer Filament?

3D printer filament is the material used by 3D printers to create three-dimensional objects. It is a long, thin, and flexible plastic thread that is fed through the printer’s extruder, which heats the filament to a specific temperature and melts it. The melted plastic is then extruded through a nozzle in a controlled manner to create the desired shape.

There are several types of 3D printer filaments available in the market, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. The most common types of filaments are PLA (polylactic acid), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene), PETG (glycol-modified PET), and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). Each type of filament has its own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one depends on the specific needs of the project.

PLA is the most commonly used filament and is popular due to its ease of use, low price, and environmental friendliness. It is made from renewable resources such as corn starch and sugarcane, and it is biodegradable. ABS is known for its strength and durability, making it ideal for creating parts that need to withstand wear and tear. PETG is a popular choice for creating clear and transparent objects, while TPU is a flexible filament that is often used to create objects such as phone cases and toys.

In summary, 3D printer filament is the material used by 3D printers to create three-dimensional objects. There are several types of filaments available, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Choosing the right filament depends on the specific needs of the project.

Types of 3D Printer Filament

When it comes to 3D printing, choosing the right filament is essential. There are several types of 3D printer filaments available on the market, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of 3D printer filaments:

PLA

PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the most popular 3D printer filaments. It is made from renewable resources such as cornstarch and sugarcane and is biodegradable. PLA is easy to print with and produces high-quality prints with a glossy finish. It is also available in a wide range of colors.

ABS

ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) is a strong and durable 3D printer filament. It is commonly used for printing objects that require strength and durability, such as toys and automotive parts. ABS is available in a range of colors and is resistant to impact and heat.

PETG

PETG (glycol-modified PET) is a popular 3D printer filament that is known for its strength and durability. It is a transparent filament that is resistant to impact and heat. PETG is also easy to print with and produces high-quality prints with a glossy finish.

Nylon

Nylon is a strong and flexible 3D printer filament. It is commonly used for printing objects that require flexibility and durability, such as phone cases and hinges. Nylon is available in a range of colors and is resistant to impact and abrasion.

TPU

TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) is a flexible and durable 3D printer filament. It is commonly used for printing objects that require flexibility and elasticity, such as phone cases and shoes. TPU is available in a range of colors and is resistant to impact and abrasion.

In conclusion, choosing the right 3D printer filament is essential for producing high-quality prints. Each type of filament has its own unique properties and characteristics, so it is important to choose the filament that best suits your needs.

Factors Affecting the Cost of 3D Printer Filament

When it comes to 3D printing, the cost of filament can vary greatly depending on several factors. In this section, we will discuss some of the key factors that affect the cost of 3D printer filament.

Material Type

The material used to make the filament is one of the most significant factors that affect its cost. Some materials, such as PLA, are less expensive than others, such as ABS or Nylon. This is because the manufacturing process and the raw materials used to make these filaments differ.

Brand

The brand of the filament can also affect its cost. Some brands are more expensive than others because of the quality of the filament or the reputation of the manufacturer. However, it’s essential to note that a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality.

Color

The color of the filament can also affect its cost. Standard colors such as black, white, and gray are usually less expensive than unique or custom colors. This is because the manufacturing process for custom colors is more complicated and requires more resources, which increases the cost.

Diameter

The diameter of the filament can also affect its cost. Filaments with a smaller diameter are more expensive because they require more precision during the manufacturing process. However, they can produce more detailed prints with a higher level of accuracy.

Spool Size

The size of the spool can also affect the cost of 3D printer filament. Larger spools contain more filament, which reduces the cost per unit. However, larger spools can be more challenging to handle and store, which can be a disadvantage for some users.

In conclusion, several factors affect the cost of 3D printer filament, including the material type, brand, color, diameter, and spool size. It’s essential to consider these factors before purchasing filament to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

Where to Buy 3D Printer Filament

When it comes to buying 3D printer filament, there are a few options available. You can choose to buy it online or from a local retail store. Let’s take a look at each option in detail.

Online Stores

Online stores are a popular choice for buying 3D printer filament. They offer a wide selection of filaments, competitive prices, and the convenience of shopping from home. Here are some popular online stores to consider:

• Amazon: Amazon offers a wide selection of 3D printer filaments from various brands and at different price points. They also offer fast shipping and easy returns.
• MatterHackers: MatterHackers is a popular online store for 3D printing supplies. They offer a wide selection of filaments from various brands, as well as their own brand of filaments. They also offer free shipping on orders over $35.
• 3D Universe: 3D Universe is another popular online store for 3D printing supplies. They offer a wide selection of filaments from various brands, as well as their own brand of filaments. They also offer free shipping on orders over $99.

Local Retail Stores

If you prefer to buy 3D printer filament in person, you can visit a local retail store. Not all retail stores carry 3D printer filaments, so you may need to call ahead to confirm availability. Here are some types of stores that may carry 3D printer filaments:

• Electronics stores: Stores like Best Buy or Micro Center may carry 3D printer filaments.
• Hobby stores: Hobby stores like Hobby Lobby or Michaels may carry 3D printer filaments.
• 3D printing stores: Some cities have stores dedicated to 3D printing, which may carry a wide selection of filaments.

Overall, buying 3D printer filament can be easy and convenient with the right information. Whether you choose to buy online or in person, make sure to research the brand and type of filament you need before making a purchase.

How Much Does 3D Printer Filament Cost?

The cost of 3D printer filament varies depending on the type of material, the brand, and the supplier. Here are some general price ranges to give you an idea of what to expect:

• PLA (polylactic acid) filament typically costs between $20 and $40 per kilogram.
• ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) filament is usually priced between $25 and $50 per kilogram.
• PETG (glycol-modified PET) filament can cost anywhere from $30 to $60 per kilogram.
• Nylon filament is one of the more expensive options, with prices ranging from $50 to $100 per kilogram.

It’s important to note that these prices can vary depending on where you purchase the filament from. Some suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases, while others may charge more for premium brands.

In addition to the cost of the filament itself, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of shipping if you’re ordering online. Some suppliers offer free shipping on larger orders, while others may charge a flat rate or base the shipping cost on the weight of your order.

Overall, the cost of 3D printer filament is relatively affordable, especially when you consider the versatility and customization options that 3D printing offers. By shopping around and comparing prices, you can find high-quality filament at a reasonable price that fits your budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, 3D printer filament prices can vary greatly depending on the material, quality, and brand. It is important to do research and compare prices before making a purchase.

Some of the most common materials used for 3D printing include PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU. PLA is generally the cheapest option, with prices ranging from $15 to $25 per kilogram. ABS and PETG are slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from $20 to $35 per kilogram. TPU, on the other hand, is one of the most expensive materials, with prices ranging from $30 to $50 per kilogram.

It is also important to consider the quality of the filament. Low-quality filament may be cheaper, but it can lead to poor print quality and even damage to your printer. High-quality filament may be more expensive, but it can provide better results and a longer lifespan for your printer.

Lastly, brand can also play a factor in the price of filament. Some well-known brands may charge a premium for their products, while lesser-known brands may offer more affordable options. It is important to read reviews and do research on the brand before making a purchase.

Overall, the price of 3D printer filament can range from relatively inexpensive to quite expensive, depending on the material, quality, and brand. It is important to consider all of these factors when making a purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money.