For buyers, the cost of PLA filament is driven by spool size, diameter, and brand reputation. Typical estimates show PLA priced by gram, with major differences arising from material quality, color options, and shipping timing. Understanding cost per gram helps compare spools and forecast project budgets.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA Filament (1 kg spool, 1.75 mm) | $12 | $20 | $40 | Assumes mainstream brands |
| Cost Per Gram | $0.012 | $0.020 | $0.040 | Based on price ÷ 1,000 g |
| Shipping & Handling | $0 | $0-$6 | $6-$15 | Domestic delivery varies by seller |
| Taxes & Fees | $0 | $0-$2 | $0-$3 | State tax may apply |
Overview Of Costs
PLA filament pricing typically ranges from about 1.2–4.0 cents per gram, depending on diameter, color specialty, and brand. The most common scenario is a 1 kg spool priced between $12 and $20, equating to roughly 1.2–2.0 cents per gram for standard options. Higher-end, specialty blends or recycled-content spools can push per-gram costs near 4 cents or more. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
The following table highlights the main cost components when purchasing PLA filament for consumer 3D printing. The estimates assume U.S. pricing and standard 1.75 mm diameter spools. Per-gram calculations help compare between brands and spool sizes.
| Categories | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | $0.01 | $0.02 | $0.04 | Per gram, based on typical spool pricing |
| Delivery/Shipping | $0 | $0-$0.06 | $0-$0.15 | Per gram equivalent depending on weight |
| Taxes | $0 | $0-$0.003 | $0-$0.03 | State and local taxes |
| Wastage / Waste | $0 | $0.001 | $0.005 | Remainders from imperfect prints |
| Storage & Handling | $0 | $0.001 | $0.003 | Dry storage considerations |
What Drives Price
Key drivers include diameter and color options, brand reputation, and spool quality. A 1.75 mm diameter is the standard for consumer printers, with 2.85 mm and specialty diameters commanding different pricing. Colored or specialty blends (glass-filled, carbon-fiber, or biodegradable variants) add a premium. Brand reliability and packaging (dust-free packaging, desiccants) also affect cost. Assumptions: typical consumer-grade filament.
Ways To Save
Cost-conscious buyers can trim expenses by choosing standard colors, buying in larger spools, or shopping during promotions. Buying non-brand or recycled-content PLA may reduce price per gram, but consider print quality and reliability. Compare total project costs, not just per-gram price. Consider storage that minimizes moisture exposure to extend spool life and prevent waste. Assumptions: regular desktop use, room temperature storage.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to shipping costs and local taxes. In urban U.S. markets, a 1 kg spool typically costs about $0.02–$0.04 per gram after discounts, while suburban areas may see slightly higher shipping or tax-inclusive rates. Rural areas can exhibit the widest gaps due to limited suppliers. Regional deltas can reach ±20% compared with national averages. Assumptions: standard 1.75 mm spool, common colors.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for PLA filament purchases. Prices reflect common market conditions and standard specs.
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Basic: 1 kg, 1.75 mm, natural PLA, no-frills packaging.
Labor hours: 0; per-unit price: $0.02–$0.03/gram; total: $20–$30 per spool. -
Mid-Range: 1 kg, 1.75 mm, color mass produced, standard desiccant packaging.
Per-gram: $0.02–$0.03; total: $20–$32 per spool; shipping: $0–$10. -
Premium: 1 kg, 1.75 mm, specialty blend (matte, glow-in-the-dark), premium packaging.
Per-gram: $0.03–$0.04; total: $28–$40 per spool; shipping: $5–$15.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs may include import duties for cross-border purchases, restocking fees for returns, and fees for expedited shipping. Spool quality issues can raise waste or downtime, increasing effective cost per usable gram. Assumptions: US-based vendors with standard policies.