Are 3D Printers Expensive to Run?

Understanding the Costs of 3D Printing

Are 3D Printers Expensive to Run?

You can trust PC GuideOur team of experts use a combination of independent consumer research, in-depth testing where appropriate – which will be flagged as such, and market analysis when recommending products, software and services. Find out how we test here.

Last Updated on

A 3D printer is an item that can do a lot for the average person. As much as several people have become aware of what 3D printers can do, some fear exploiting all this machine offers because they assume it might be costly to run.

Hence, the question, “are 3D printers expensive to run?” The simple answer to this question is ‘No.’

When looking for a 3D printer, you do not have to go beyond your capacity. As a starter, you can settle for an entry-level printer costing about $600. After spending this amount on a printer, you must also buy supplies and all the necessary tools to get started. 

Once you have spent money on getting a 3D printer, the amount you will have to spend running it depends on how frequently you use it.

Now, many people looking to get a 3D printer might only consider the cost of getting the printer and the cost of supplies and tools. Well, there is more to running a 3D printer. You will need to factor in the cost of electricity and hardware maintenance.

If you need a 3D printer for personal use, you might spend some money running it, and you just might have to devise a budget for maintenance and power. However, this might not be true if you run your 3D printer commercially.

Why is this so?

When running your 3D printer commercially, you will simply shift the cost of running this printer to your clients. So, you might not feel the actual burden of running one.

Some years ago, 3D printing seemed reserved only for folks with a lot of money. However, the story is different today. You do not need to be very financially buoyant before buying and maintaining a 3D printer.

Maria is a full-stack digital marketing strategist interested in productivity and AI tools.