PLAN YOUR PRINT · PRINTVELD TOOLS
Print cost
calculator.
Know what goes into your next print. Estimate material and electricity costs in rand, then add your own time and overheads.
Your inputs
EDITABLE EXAMPLESTHE NEXT LAYER
Your estimate
Adjust the examples, then select Calculate.
BEHIND THE NUMBERS
How the cost estimate works
Filament cost is the spool price multiplied by the fraction of its net filament weight used. Electricity cost is average power in kilowatts × print hours × your rand-per-kWh tariff.
Optional machine time, hands-on labour and other costs form the subtotal. Markup is a percentage added to that entire subtotal. All starting values are editable examples; they are not current supplier prices or a South African average tariff. Tax and delivery are not added automatically.
Further reading: Prusa’s guide to print cost components ↗
Filament = grams used ÷ spool grams × spool price
Electricity = watts ÷ 1,000 × hours × R/kWh
Useful to know
Where do I find the filament weight and print time?
Slice your model first. Use the total filament and time estimates for the whole job, including supports and purge. Actual time and consumption can differ.
Does this include all costs of selling a print?
Only the costs you enter. Add your own overheads, labour and extras. Delivery, taxes, design work and failed prints need to be considered separately or included in your inputs.
Can I compare local filament prices?
Yes. PrintVeld’s Filament Finder lists South African supplier offers. Copy your chosen spool price and net filament weight into this calculator.
NUMBERS START A CONVERSATION.
What worked on your printer?
Bring your settings, results and questions to the PrintVeld forum.