The price depends mainly on material, size, print time, post-processing and quantity. A small PLA part costs anything from a few francs to a few dozen francs, while large or flexible parts cost considerably more. For series, the unit price drops sharply. On top of that, there's often an order fee and, if needed, the cost of modelling.
What the price depends on
- Material: PLA is the cheapest, PETG a little more expensive, flexible TPU and resin considerably more.
- Size and volume: More material and more print time. Hollow parts or thinner walls save money.
- Print time: Many providers charge by the hour on the printer, not by weight.
- Support structures: Overhangs need supports, which cost material and have to be removed.
- Post-processing: Sanding, painting or inserting threads takes time.
- Quantity: Setup and checks are spread across more parts.
- Modelling: Without a finished file, the design work comes on top.
Examples from Switzerland
Fixed price lists are rare. Most providers quote once you've uploaded a file. These public examples give you a rough idea:
| Provider and example | Price |
|---|---|
| Makerspace Coredump: PLA per gram | CHF 0.14 plus a print fee from CHF 5 |
| Faigle3D: standard PLA part, 1 piece (2022 price list) | around CHF 76 |
| Faigle3D: the same part at 100 pieces, per piece (2022 price list) | around CHF 30 |
| Drei-De: order fee | CHF 15 to 30 |
| 3D scanning or CAD work at Swiss services | around CHF 120 to 140 per hour |
Above all, the examples show one thing: the unit price drops significantly with quantity, and modelling can cost more than the printing itself.
PLA, PETG or TPU?
| Material | Properties | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| PLA | Stiff, precise, inexpensive, softens when warm | Prototypes, models, indoor decor |
| PETG | Tougher and more resistant to heat and moisture than PLA | Brackets, housings, outdoor parts |
| TPU | Flexible and rubbery, shock-absorbing | Seals, bumpers, protective cases, grips |
For very fine detail there's resin printing (SLA), and for robust production parts there are powder-based processes such as SLS. Both cost more and are worth it for special requirements.
When 3D printing pays off
- Prototypes: Test the shape and fit, adjust, print again. In days rather than weeks.
- Spare parts: Clips, holders or covers that are no longer available.
- Small batches: According to Formlabs, an aluminium mould for injection moulding costs around 2,000 to 5,000 euros, and complex moulds many times that. With 3D printing, that cost disappears for small quantities.
- Custom pieces: Made-to-measure brackets, merchandise with your logo, displays and models.
At large quantities, injection moulding becomes cheaper at some point. Where exactly that tipping point lies depends heavily on the part.
How to make your print cheaper
- Print parts hollow or with less infill, wherever stability allows.
- Avoid overhangs so less support material is needed.
- Bundle several parts into one order.
- Choose PLA if you don't need heat resistance or flexibility.
- Supply a clean STL or 3MF file to save on modelling time.
Sources
- Faigle3D: 3D printing prices based on example parts
- Coredump Rapperswil: 3D printing
- Drei-De: prices
- TEIL3: prices
- Hubs: 3D printing in Lucerne
- Formlabs: How do you estimate injection moulding costs?
FAQ
How much does 3D printing cost per gram?
At makerspaces, PLA starts at around CHF 0.14 per gram plus a fee. Professional services usually charge by print time and effort, not just by weight.
Which is cheaper: PLA or resin?
PLA in FDM printing is considerably cheaper. Resin printing is worth it for very fine detail and smooth surfaces.
Can I get spare parts 3D printed?
Often, yes, especially simple plastic parts like clips, holders and covers. With photos and measurements, the part can be modelled from scratch.
How long does a 3D printing job take?
Small parts are printed in a matter of hours. Including checks, the quote and any modelling, you can usually expect a few working days.
Get your part printed in Lucerne.
Send us a file or a sketch with measurements. You'll get a fixed price before we print.