3D Printer Buy vs Outsource Calculator

Determine whether purchasing a 3D printer or outsourcing your prints is more cost-effective

Basic

Advanced

Estimated Annual Print Volume (grams)

g

Average Outsourced Print Cost (per gram)

$/g

3D Printer Purchase Cost

$

Filament Cost (per kg)

$/kg

Expected Printer Lifespan (years)

years

Print Time Estimate

Based on your input volume, you would need approximately 20 hours of printing annually (assuming average print speed).

Electricity Cost (per kWh)

$/kWh

Printer Power Consumption

watts

Annual Maintenance Cost

$/year

Your Hourly Rate (for time spent printing)

$/hour

Estimated Print Failure Rate

%

Primary Material Type

PLA

$20-30/kg

ABS

$25-40/kg

PETG

$25-35/kg

TPU

$35-50/kg

Total 1-Year Cost

$350

$300

• Buying: $350
• Outsourcing: $300
• Difference: $50

Break-even Point

1.2 years

The point at which buying becomes cheaper than outsourcing.

• Volume needed: 1,200g
• Time needed: 1.2 years

Cost Comparison Over Time

Our Recommendation

Based on your inputs, outsourcing is slightly cheaper in the first year, but buying becomes cheaper after 1.2 years.