3D Print Pricing Per Gram (How It Really Works)
Pricing per gram is a quick shortcut, but it only works when you understand what it ignores. This page shows how to use it without undercharging.
When Pricing Per Gram Helps
- Small, similar parts with predictable print times.
- Simple materials with stable costs.
- Quick quotes when you still add a time or labor buffer.
When Pricing Per Gram Fails
- Large prints that take many hours but use little material.
- Jobs with heavy supports, finishing, or assembly.
- Custom work that needs extra communication time.
A Practical Per-Gram Formula
Start with material cost per gram, then add a time or labor buffer. Treat per-gram pricing as a base, not the final price.
Simple method: (grams × cost per gram) + time/labor buffer + margin.
Real-World Example
Small PLA part
40g at $0.03/g = $1.20 material. Add $3.00 for time/handling and 35% margin. Price lands around $6.45.
Long print, low material
60g at $0.03/g = $1.80 material, but 12 hours of print time. If you ignore time, you lose money. Add a time buffer before margin.
Common Mistakes
- Using only grams and ignoring time.
- Skipping a failure buffer for reprints.
- Copying someone else’s per-gram rate without checking your costs.
Use a Calculator for Accuracy
If you want a real baseline, use the 3D print cost, price, and profit calculator to account for time, energy, and margin.
For the full framework, see the 3D printing pricing guide or the step-by-step article How Much Should You Charge for 3D Prints?.
FAQ
What is a typical per-gram price?
It varies by material and market. Use your cost per gram and add time before choosing a rate.
Can I use per-gram for PETG?
Yes, but PETG often prints slower and needs more tuning. Add time or labor.
Should I include electricity?
Yes. It is small, but it adds up on longer jobs.