Thinking about buying a 3D printer? Whether you’re a hobbyist, a professional, or just curious about what it takes to get started, one of the first questions is always: how much is a 3D printer? Prices vary widely, depending on the type, size, and quality of the machine. In this guide, we break down what you can expect to pay for a 3D printer in 2025—whether you’re looking for a cheap home printer, a metal printer, or even one that can build houses.
What you need to know:
- A basic home 3D printer costs between $150 and $400.
- A good quality desktop 3D printer for hobbyists costs between $500 and $1,200.
- Industrial and metal 3D printers can cost from $25,000 up to $1 million.
- 3D printer filament typically costs $20–$50 per 1kg roll.
How much is a 3D printer for home use?
A small or basic 3D printer for home use is very affordable if you’re just starting out. These printers typically use FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) technology and can print plastic parts using filament rolls.
| Type | Price Range | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level FDM printer | $150 – $400 | Beginners, kids, light home use |
| Mid-range desktop printer | $500 – $1,200 | Serious hobbyists, prototypes |
| Resin 3D printer (SLA/DLP) | $250 – $700 | High-detail models, miniatures |
How much is a good 3D printer?
A good 3D printer usually has a sturdy frame, good print volume, and supports multiple filament types. Many buyers look at printers like the Prusa i3 MK4 or the Bambu Lab P1S, which cost between $700 and $1,200.
How much is a metal 3D printer?
Metal 3D printers use advanced technology like SLM (Selective Laser Melting) or DMLS (Direct Metal Laser Sintering). These printers are used in aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. Prices start around $25,000 and can go up to $1 million+ for titanium or large-format machines.
How much is a 3D printer that can build a house?
Large concrete 3D printers designed for home construction are a different category. These machines are typically used by construction companies and cost between $250,000 and $500,000. However, they can print an entire small house in less than 48 hours.
How much is filament for a 3D printer?
The most common materials are PLA and ABS. A 1kg spool of filament costs between $20 and $50, depending on the brand and type. Specialty filaments like carbon fiber or flexible TPU cost more. On average:
- PLA/ABS: $20 – $30 per kg
- PETG/TPU: $25 – $40 per kg
- Carbon fiber blends: $35 – $60 per kg
A typical print uses about 10–100 grams of filament, meaning the material cost per project ranges from $0.50 to $5.
How much is resin for a 3D printer?
Resin printers use liquid photopolymer resins, which are more expensive than filaments. A 1-liter bottle of standard resin costs between $35 and $70, and specialty resins (like dental or high-temp) can go beyond $100 per liter.
How much is a 3D printer on sale?
There are frequent sales on major sites like Amazon or dedicated 3D printer stores. During events like Black Friday or Prime Day, you can find discounts of 15% to 40% on popular brands like Creality, Anycubic, Bambu Lab, and Prusa. A good deal might let you snag a $500 printer for $350.
How much is a 3D printer for kids?
Kid-friendly 3D printers are designed to be safe and easy to use. Many come fully assembled and include enclosed print areas. Expect to pay between $150 and $300 for a small, reliable model.
How much is a 3D printing pen?
If you’re not ready to invest in a full printer, a 3D pen might be a fun alternative. These pens extrude melted plastic and let you draw 3D shapes by hand. Prices range from $30 to $90.