3D printing has become more accessible than ever, and one of the first questions newcomers ask is: how much does 3D printer filament cost? It’s a valid question — whether you’re a hobbyist printing fun models at home or a small business prototyping parts, filament is a recurring expense that affects your bottom line.
Understanding the cost of 3D printer filament isn’t just about comparing price tags. It’s about knowing what kind of material you need, how much you’ll use, and what brands offer the best balance of quality and affordability. In this guide, we’ll break it all down to help you make smarter purchasing decisions.
Types of 3D Printer Filaments and Their Price Ranges
Different types of filament are made from different materials, which directly impacts their cost. Here are some of the most commonly used filaments and what you can expect to pay for each:
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most popular and budget-friendly filament. It’s easy to print, biodegradable, and ideal for beginners. Prices range from $15 to $25 per 1kg spool, with budget brands often on the lower end and premium options offering tighter tolerances and vibrant colors.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a more durable plastic, often used in functional parts. It’s slightly more expensive than PLA, usually ranging from $18 to $30 per 1kg spool. It requires higher printing temperatures and better ventilation.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) strikes a balance between strength and flexibility. It’s less brittle than PLA and easier to print than ABS. A 1kg spool typically costs $20 to $35, depending on the brand.
TPU and other flexible filaments offer elasticity and are great for printing phone cases, gaskets, or wearables. Their specialized properties make them more expensive — expect to pay between $30 and $60 per kg.
Premium filaments such as Nylon, Carbon Fiber-infused, or Polycarbonate come with high-performance benefits like heat resistance, strength, or chemical resistance. These can cost anywhere from $50 to over $100 per kg. These are typically used in industrial or engineering applications where performance is critical.
Factors That Affect Filament Cost
Beyond just the type of material, several factors influence the final cost of a filament spool.
Material quality and additives play a major role. For example, a standard PLA filament will cost less than a PLA infused with wood particles or silk-like finishes. Similarly, color consistency and UV resistance can raise the price.
Brand reputation also matters. Well-established brands typically offer better quality control, which reduces the chances of a failed print. You’re not just paying for filament — you’re paying for reliability.
Spool size impacts price-per-gram calculations. While 1kg spools are standard, smaller 500g spools might seem cheaper at first glance but cost more per gram. Some brands also offer 3kg or 5kg spools at a bulk discount.
Tolerance and accuracy can justify higher prices. Filaments with tighter dimensional tolerance (±0.02mm) tend to perform more consistently, especially in high-precision applications.
Manufacturing origin also affects price. Filaments made in the EU or USA often cost more due to stricter quality standards and labor costs, while those made in Asia can be more affordable but vary in consistency.
Price Comparison: Budget vs Premium Brands
Budget brands like Sunlu, eSun, or AmazonBasics offer great entry points, with 1kg PLA spools as low as $15. These are suitable for non-critical prints or experimenting with new designs. Mid-range brands like Prusament or MatterHackers offer consistent quality, tighter tolerances, and vibrant color options. Prices typically range from $25 to $40 per kg. Premium brands like ColorFabb, Polymaker, or Proto-pasta can cost upwards of $50 per kg — but they offer specialty blends, eco-friendliness, and high-end performance.
Choosing between these tiers depends on your needs. If print failure is costly for your application, investing in a premium filament makes sense. But for everyday printing, budget options can be surprisingly reliable.
Where to Buy 3D Printer Filament at the Best Price
Buying online is usually the most convenient way to find deals and a wide range of options. FILA LAB offers a curated selection of high-quality filaments across multiple material types — from PLA to advanced engineering-grade options. Shopping at specialty sites like filalab.shop ensures you’re getting tested products backed by expert recommendations.
You can also check local makerspaces or hardware stores, though the selection is often limited. Bulk purchases and bundles can offer cost savings — especially if you print often. Some suppliers even offer filament subscription services with monthly deliveries at discounted rates.
How to Save Money Without Compromising Print Quality
Want to cut costs without cutting corners? Start by buying in bulk — many suppliers offer discounts when buying 3 or more spools. Look out for seasonal sales, clearance events, and bundle offers. You can also save money by storing filament properly. Moisture ruins print quality, so invest in airtight containers or filament dryers to preserve material integrity.
Choose the right filament for each job. Don’t use expensive carbon fiber filament for a simple decorative print — stick with PLA when performance isn’t a priority. Match material properties to your project to avoid unnecessary spending.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much filament is needed for an average print?
Most small to medium-sized prints use 50–200 grams. A 1kg spool can yield 5–20 prints depending on size and infill.
How long does a 1kg spool last?
It depends on your print frequency and model sizes. For occasional hobbyists, a spool may last months. For daily users, a week or two.
Is expensive filament always better?
Not always. Mid-range brands often hit the sweet spot between price and performance. Evaluate based on print quality, not just cost.
Can you reuse filament?
Technically yes, but not easily. Filament recyclers exist, but they’re costly. It’s more practical to avoid waste through careful planning.
Conclusion
So, how much does 3D printer filament cost? The short answer: anywhere from $15 to $100+ per kilogram, depending on material, brand, and performance. But price alone shouldn’t drive your decision. Choose filament based on your project’s requirements, and always weigh cost against quality and reliability.
Looking for filament you can trust? Explore FILA LAB’s handpicked selection of filaments to get the best combination of performance and value for your next 3D printing project.