The monthly cost to run a 3D printer typically ranges from low to moderate, depending on usage, materials, and maintenance. For most small businesses, operating a 3D printer is far cheaper than outsourcing parts or prototypes.
Below is a clear, real-world breakdown of what small businesses actually spend each month and how to keep costs predictable.
Monthly Cost Breakdown of Running a 3D Printer
Here’s what typically contributes to monthly expenses.
Filament or Resin Costs
This is the largest recurring cost.
Typical monthly material costs
- Light use: small amount of filament or resin
- Moderate business use: steady monthly consumption
- Heavy use: multiple spools or resin bottles
For most small businesses, material costs remain manageable and predictable, especially with FDM printers.
Electricity Usage
3D printers are not power-hungry machines.
Even with daily use:
- Power consumption stays low
- Electricity costs are minor compared to material costs
For most businesses, electricity is one of the smallest monthly expenses.
Maintenance & Replacement Parts
Maintenance costs are usually low and infrequent.
Common replacement items
- Nozzles
- Build plates
- PTFE tubes
- Occasional fans or belts
Most businesses spend very little per month when maintenance is done proactively.
Failed Prints & Material Waste
Failed prints happen, especially early on.
Ways to keep waste low:
- Use reliable printer profiles
- Perform regular calibration
- Avoid rushing long prints
With experience, failed prints become rare and predictable.
Monthly Cost Comparison: Outsourcing vs In-House Printing
For many businesses, the biggest savings come from not outsourcing.
Outsourcing often includes:
- Design revisions
- Long lead times
- High per-part costs
In-house printing offers:
- Faster turnaround
- Lower per-part cost
- Complete control over iteration
Even modest in-house usage often justifies owning a printer.
Does Printer Type Affect Monthly Costs?
Yes, significantly.
FDM printers
- Lower material costs
- Minimal post-processing
- Ideal for functional parts
Resin printers
- Higher material costs
- Extra supplies for cleaning and curing
- Best for high-detail applications
Most small businesses keep monthly costs lower by starting with FDM printers.
How Small Businesses Keep 3D Printing Costs Low
Successful businesses follow simple rules:
- Buy quality filament
- Maintain printers regularly
- Avoid unnecessary upgrades
- Print only what adds value
- Track material usage monthly
Consistency keeps costs predictable.
Is Running a 3D Printer Monthly Worth the Cost?
For most small businesses, yes.
If your business:
- Prototypes products
- Repairs or replaces parts
- Produces custom items
- Needs fast turnaround
Then the monthly cost of running a 3D printer is usually far lower than the value it creates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is electricity expensive for 3D printing?
No. Electricity costs are typically minimal compared to materials.
Do 3D printers require constant maintenance?
No. Basic maintenance keeps costs low and printers reliable.
Can monthly costs be predicted?
Yes. Tracking material usage makes costs very predictable.
Conclusion
The monthly cost to run a 3D printer is manageable, predictable, and often far cheaper than outsourcing production. For small businesses that use 3D printing regularly, the return on investment usually outweighs operating costs by a wide margin.