3D Printer – Buy vs Outsource Calculator

3D Printer — Buy vs Outsource Calculator

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3D Printing: Should You Buy or Outsource? Calculate Now!

Ever imagined holding a physical version of your digital designs? A 3D printer turns that vision into reality. This technology is at the heart of innovation in fields like robotics and engineering, revolutionizing everything from what we drive to what we eat. Yes, even food can be 3D printed!

Given their immense potential, it’s beneficial for students, entrepreneurs, and professionals to get hands-on experience with 3D printers. Thanks to advancements in affordable rapid prototyping, these machines are no longer just for factories; they’re now accessible for schools, colleges, and homes.

But a common question arises: should you buy your own 3D printer or use a commercial 3D printing service? An online service might take a few days, while having a printer at your disposal 24/7 can be a game-changer for creativity. However, owning one involves maintenance and cleaning. While you weigh the practicalities, we’ve got the financial side covered. This calculator helps you estimate and compare the cost of buying a printer versus outsourcing your prints, so you can make an informed decision.

Should You Buy a 3D Printer or Use a Service?

To decide, it helps to understand the technology. Let’s look at the different types of 3D printers available and what they can do.

Types of 3D Printers

3D printers vary based on their size, the materials they use, and the printing technology. These factors ultimately determine the cost of a 3D printer.

Printing Technology
The technology a printer uses is a key differentiator. Common types include:

  • Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM): The most common and affordable method, which is the main focus of this calculator.
  • Stereolithography (SLA): Known for high detail.
  • Selective Laser Sintering (SLS): Uses powder-based materials.
  • Selective Laser Melting (SLM): For printing with metal.

An FDM printer works by heating a plastic filament and extruding it through a nozzle, building the model layer by layer on a print bed.

3D Printer Materials
The most common material for FDM printing is Polylactic Acid (PLA). It’s affordable, biodegradable, and perfect for rapid prototyping and brainstorming. Other popular thermoplastic materials include:

  • Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): Requires a heated bed to prevent warping.
  • Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU): Known for its flexibility.
  • Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG): A durable and easy-to-use option.

Advanced printers can also use metal powders, composites, and even wood-blended filaments, offering different levels of strength, flexibility, and longevity.

Print Size (Build Volume)
A major cost factor is the printer’s build volume, which is the maximum size of an object you can print. It’s typically measured in millimeters, like 100 mm x 120 mm x 135 mm.

The 3D Printing Process from Start to Finish

3D printing involves several key stages:

1. Conceptualization and Modeling
It starts with an idea. This could be a rough sketch that’s turned into a 3D model using CAD software like SolidWorks. You can also find free or paid 3D models on marketplaces like CGTrader and TurboSquid.

2. Preprocessing (Slicing)
Once you have a 3D model, you prepare it for printing using “slicing” software like Ultimaker Cura or PrusaSlicer. The slicer converts the model into a G-code file, which contains instructions for the printer.

This software also allows you to adjust key settings and estimate print time and material usage. The main parts of a print are:

  • Shell: The outer walls of the model.
  • Infill: The internal structure that provides support. Choosing the right infill density is crucial for strength without wasting material.
  • Supports: Temporary structures needed for overhanging parts of a model, which are removed after printing.

3. Printing
This is the easiest phase. You load the G-code file onto the printer, insert a filament spool, and make sure the print bed is level. It’s wise to monitor the first few layers to ensure the filament is adhering properly and there are no issues.

4. Post-processing
After the print is finished and cools down, you remove it from the bed. Post-processing can include removing support structures with pliers or knives, sanding for a smoother finish, or painting.

How to Use the Buy vs. Outsource Calculator

Our calculator has two modes:

  • Education Mode: For educators comparing the costs for a school or university.
  • Commercial Mode: For entrepreneurs wanting to calculate costs and potential profit for a business.

Estimating the Cost of Owning a 3D Printer

To get your estimate, have these details ready:

  1. Select your printer from our list or enter its price manually.
  2. Enter the printer’s electricity consumption (found in the manual).
  3. Estimate the total running time.
  4. Input the price of the printer filament you plan to use.
  5. Add the cost of slicing software (most are free, but some have subscriptions).
  6. Include the cost of accessories like gloves, safety glasses, and tools.
  7. Factor in 3D modeling costs if you’re hiring a designer.

The calculator will then estimate the total cost of owning and operating your own 3D printer.

Estimating the Cost of Using a 3D Printing Service

  1. Enter the cost of the 3D model (if you’re buying it or hiring a modeler).
  2. Fill in the printing cost quoted by the service.
  3. Enter the quantity of models you’re ordering.
  4. Add the shipping cost.

The calculator will determine your total cost and compare it against the cost of owning a printer, helping you decide which option is more economical.

How to Reduce 3D Printing Costs

Whether you buy or outsource, you can lower your printing costs. The cost depends on three main factors:

  • Design Complexity
  • Print Time
  • Material Usage

Here are some tips to save money:

  • Optimize your design: Use slicing software to identify and fix thin walls or other issues before printing.
  • Reduce print time: Arrange multiple parts on the print bed to minimize nozzle travel time.
  • Choose the right infill: Use just enough infill to make your part strong without wasting material. A lower infill percentage significantly reduces print time and cost.

Why Are 3D Printers So Useful?

3D printing is more than a hobby. It’s a powerful tool driving innovation in numerous industries:

  • Biomedical and Healthcare: Creating custom surgical implants, prosthetics, and scaffolds for tissue engineering.
  • Robotics: Building custom parts for robots and advanced, movable prosthetic limbs.
  • Automotive and Aviation: Manufacturing lighter, stronger, and more complex parts for cars and planes.
  • Construction: Printing entire houses and structures quickly and affordably, with potential applications for space missions.
  • Entrepreneurship: Enabling creators to bring custom products to market, from jewelry and cosplay items to action figures and DIY kits.