Cheapest 3D Printer Filament: Budget-Friendly Choices for Makers
Note: We have researched 13 3D printer filaments for you.
Last updated on 05.07.24 um 01:30
For enthusiasts and professionals alike, 3D printing opens up a world of possibilities, allowing for the creation of complex parts, intricate models, and personalized items right at home. However, the cost of supplies can quickly add up, making it essential to find materials that balance both affordability and performance.
In the realm of filament choices, the options are plentiful, yet finding the best deal without compromising on the quality can be a challenge. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision, highlighting our top picks for filaments that ensure reliable printing results without breaking the bank.
In the realm of filament choices, the options are plentiful, yet finding the best deal without compromising on the quality can be a challenge. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision, highlighting our top picks for filaments that ensure reliable printing results without breaking the bank.
To simplify the price comparison, we determine the prices for the individual articles on Amazon, Ebay and other shops and link the offers via partner links where applicable. This means that we receive a commission if you buy something that we recommend - the price does not change for you.
Pictured: 3Dgenius Silk PLA 3D Printer Filament
What to Look for in Cheapest 3D Printer Filaments
Important criteria
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Material type (PLA, ABS, PETG, etc.)
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Diameter consistency
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Filament roundness
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Tensile strength
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Color consistency
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Spool winding quality
1.) Material Quality
When selecting the cheapest 3D printer filament, it is critical to consider the quality of the material. Low-cost filaments may have inconsistent diameters and impurities, leading to poor print quality and increased likelihood of printer jams. Look for filaments that have clear specifications and positive user reviews regarding their consistency and reliability. Even though the upfront costs might be slightly higher, purchasing a filament from a reputable brand can save you time and money by avoiding print failures.
2.) Compatibility with Printer
Ensure that the filament you are considering is compatible with your 3D printer. Different printers require different filament sizes, typically 1.75mm or 2.85mm, and not all materials are suitable for every printer. For example, some printers do not have a heated bed or a hot end capable of reaching the temperatures required for printing with certain materials such as ABS or Nylon. Double-check your printer's specs before making a purchase to avoid buying filament you cannot use.
Pictured: SUNLU 10kg PLA 3D Printer Filament Bu...
3.) Filament Storage
Cheaper filaments often lack adequate packaging, which can lead to moisture absorption and degrade the filament quality over time. It is important to consider how the filament is stored before and after purchase. Look for well-sealed packaging, and plan to invest in airtight containers or dry boxes to store your filament if you live in a humid climate. This extra step will help maintain the filament's properties and lifespan.
4.) Environmental and Health Considerations
Inexpensive filaments may not always adhere to safety and environmental standards. Check for any available safety data sheets and look for certifications that guarantee the absence of hazardous substances. Additionally, be mindful of the potential for harmful emissions when printing with certain materials. Using filaments like PLA, which is biodegradable and considered safer for indoor air quality, can be a healthier choice if ventilation is inadequate.
The Cheapest 3D Printer Filaments of our Choice
Our Pick
ERYONE Silk Dual Color Filament PLA
Size: Silk PLA-250g
Features
- Silk Dichromatic Filament: Two-color silk filament
- High Accuracy Silk Filament: 1.75mm diameter, +/-0.03mm tolerance
- No Warping Multicolor Filament: Tangle-free silk color pla
- Strong Layer Adhesion: Good first layer adhesion
- Exquisite Packaging: Reusable vacuum sealed packaging
2
GCCSJ 3D Printer Filament Bundle Muticolor
Features
- 250G PLA is non-toxic and odorless when heated.
- Flexible and tough, with strong adhesion and no clogging.
- High precision with ±0.02mm dimensional accuracy.
- Multiple color options including luminous series.
- Vacuum-sealed PLA made from purified corn material.
$ 29.99 *
View
on Amazon
3
DO3D 1.75mm PLA 3D Printer Filament
Features
- 5 Spools PLA Filament Bundle, 250g Each Spool
- Includes Natural Fast Color Change Rainbow PLA
- 4 Spools Glowing in Dark Blue/Purple/Green/Rainbow
- Great for 3D Sample or Testing
- High Quality, Good Printing Results, No Issues
- Compatible with Most FDM 3D Printers/Printing Pen
- Easy to Print, Consistent Diameter, Tangle-Free
- Good Vacuum Packaging, Satisfaction Guarantee
4
ANYCUBIC PLA 3D Printer Filament
Type/Color: 1kg Pla Gray
Features
- Accurate & Consistency: 1.75mm diameter with ±0.02mm tolerance.
- Good fusion between layers for better-bridging result.
- Neat spool with no crossing turns, reducing thread pulling.
- No clogging, under-extruding, and minimal stringing.
- No jam or adhesion issues for hassle-free printing.
- Clog-Free patent and vacuum-sealed for stable printing.
- Made from renewable plant resources, non-toxic and odorless.
- Compatible with most FDM 3D printers and pens.
- Lower melting temperatures, no need for a heated bed.
- Easy installation and filament change to reduce nozzle block.
$ 12.99 *
View
on Amazon
5
SUNLU 10kg PLA 3D Printer Filament Bundle Multicolor
Features
- PLA material is ideal for 3D printing.
- Reliable, versatile, and easy to use filament.
- Excellent layer adhesion for high-quality prints.
- Neat winding reduces risk of tangles and jams.
- Filament diameter accuracy of +/- 0.02mm.
- Wide compatibility with small diameter error.
- SPOOL: Diameter 8.00", Width 2.50", Hub 2.20".
- Recommend settings: Nozzle 200-230°C, Bed 50-65°C, Speed 50-100mm/s.
- Offers a variety of 3D printing products.
$ 159.99 *
View
on Amazon
6
iSANMATE 3D Printer Filament Bundle
Features
- Glow in The Dark Filament: emits light at night
- PLA filament: odorless, clog-free, bubble-free, easy-to-use
- High toughness, excellent strength, low warpage printing
- Made of natural, reliable, durable materials; CE, RoHS certified
- Absorbs light energy, emits light in the dark
- 1.75mm diameter, +/- 0.03mm accuracy, compatible with most printers
- Vacuum sealed packaging with desiccant for performance maintenance
$ 41.99 *
View
on Amazon
7
AMOLEN PLA 3D Printing Filament Bundle 1.75mm
Features
- 4 Colors PLA filament Bundles: White, Red, Black, Blue
- TANGLE & CLOG FREE: Auto wind and fixed hole design
- HIGH PURITY & PREMIER MATERIAL: Good performance PLA filament
- HIGH COMPATIBILITY: Compatible with most FDM 3D Printers
- VACUUM BAG & HASSLE FREE: Dry, dust-free packaging
$ 26.99 *
View
on Amazon
11
TRONXY PETG 3D Printer Filament 1.75mm
Type/Color: Orange1
12
MIKA3D 3D Pen 3D Printer Filament
Model: MKF0024
Type/Color: 24 Colors
Size: M
Features
- 24 unique colors: 3 metal, 6 transparent, 15 normal
- High quality PLA raw material from USA
- Good performance: Diameter accuracy +\/-.03mm
- Strong compatibility with most 1.75mm 3D pens/printers
- Warranty: 24hr response, 100% satisfaction guarantee
13
Yousu 3D Printer Filament Galaxy PLA Filament 1.75mm
Size: Galaxy PLA
Features
- Multi color PLA Filament Bundle options include: Giltter Galaxy Black, Chameleon Blue/Purple, Glow in the Dark Green Starry, Glitter Gold.
- Each spool weighs 0.25kg, totaling 1kg.
- Suitable for printing Multi-Colored 3D objects.
- Great sample and gift pack for 3D printing.
- Good Layer Adhesion & Rigidity - no warping, jamming, or layer delamination issues.
- Great bed adhesion, consistent color, and dimensional accuracy.
- No Tangling and Clogging during printing.
- Mechanical winding, manual inspection, no tangling or overlapping.
- Nozzle temperature: 180-220˚C, Bed temperature: 40-60˚C, Printing speed: 40-100 mm/s.
- Lifetime Warranty - full refund if not performing as expected.
* All prices incl. VAT, plus shipping if applicable. Prices, delivery times and costs may change in the meantime. The selection of products was made independently of the manufacturer and without any claim to completeness. All links to products are external partner links through which we may receive compensation. All information without guarantee.
Find Affordable 3D Printer Filament for Every Buyer
Budget-Conscious Hobbyists
For those who enjoy 3D printing as a hobby, finding cost-effective filament is essential. Keeping your projects affordable allows for more experimentation and learning. Our selected links will guide you to some of the most wallet-friendly options available.
Small Business Owners
Small businesses utilizing 3D printing need to maintain low overhead costs for profitability. We've curated a list of filaments that balance price and performance, perfect for small-scale production and prototyping without breaking the bank.
Educators and Schools
Educational institutions that incorporate 3D printing into their curriculum require filaments that are affordable and available in bulk. Our recommendations provide options that fit tight educational budgets while allowing students to unleash their creativity.
Professional Designers
Design professionals looking for an economical filament solution will find our selections ideal for day-to-day use. The balance of cost and quality ensures that project prototypes are both high-grade and cost-efficient.
Questions You Might Ask
The most common types of 3D printer filaments are PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol), and TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane). PLA is biodegradable and user-friendly, ABS is known for its toughness and heat resistance, PETG offers a good balance between PLA and ABS, and TPU is flexible and elastic.
The right filament diameter depends on your 3D printer's specifications. The two standard filament diameters are 1.75mm and 2.85mm (3mm). Check your printer's documentation or specifications to find out which diameter is compatible with your machine. Using the wrong diameter can cause extrusion problems and affect print quality.
For outdoor use, consider filaments that are UV and weather resistant, such as ASA (Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate) or PETG. These materials will better withstand the elements, such as sunlight, rain, and temperature variations, without degrading as quickly as other filaments might.
Yes, there are numerous specialty filaments including wood-filled, metal-filled, conductive, magnetic, and glow-in-the-dark filaments. These special filaments are typically used for specific applications to achieve unique finishes, functionalities, or aesthetic qualities.
Filaments should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Moisture can degrade filament quality, so it's often recommended to store them with desiccants or in sealed bags or containers to protect them from humidity. Some filaments, such as nylon, are particularly hygroscopic and require extra care to prevent water absorption.
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How to Choose Affordable 3D Printer Filament
Our Pick: ERYONE Silk Dual Color Filament PLA
Embarking on a 3D printing venture doesn't have to break the bank. From hobbyists to budget-savvy creators, finding the right balance between quality and cost for 3D printer filament is key to keeping your projects alive without compromising results. In this guide, we'll walk you through the ins and outs of selecting cheap, yet reliable, 3D printer filament that gives you the freedom to create without worrying about the cost.
Understanding Filament Types
The 3D printing world is bustling with various types of filaments, each with its pros and cons. The most common types are PLA (Polylactic Acid), ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol). PLA is the go-to for beginners due to its ease of use and biodegradability. ABS is a bit tougher, suitable for more functional parts, while PETG combines ease of PLA and the strength of ABS.
Price-wise, PLA is typically the cheapest due to its wide availability and popularity. However, price fluctuations can occur based on demand, additives for color or texture, or enhancements for strength. It's worth noting that specialized filaments like flexible TPU or composites can be pricier, so stick to the basics if cost is your primary concern.
When seeking the cheapest options, keep an eye out for sales or bulk discounts offered by suppliers. Buying in larger quantities often reduces the cost per kilogram, but ensure you have proper storage to avoid material degradation.
Choosing the Right Quality
While the price is certainly a major factor, don't let it tempt you into sacrificing quality. Poor quality filament can lead to print failures, clogged nozzles, and an array of other headaches that will cost you more in the long run. Look for reputable brands that offer budget lines of filament, as they often provide the best balance between cost and quality.
Check for consistent diameter and roundness throughout the spool, as these factors significantly influence print quality. Slight variations can lead to uneven extrusion and poor layers. Reviews and forums are gold mines for personal experiences, helping you steer clear of unreliable products and towards those that offer reliability at a low cost.
Additionally, consider the transparency of the manufacturer regarding their quality control processes. Some may provide batch-specific testing data, ensuring you know exactly what you're feeding your printer. Remember, quality doesn't always mean expensive. With careful research, you can discover gems that are both affordable and reliable.
Color and Aesthetics
While color might not affect the functionality of your prints, it does play a role in the aesthetics of your final product. Some users might prioritize a wide color range, while others might only need basic hues. Often, unique or special colors can be slightly more expensive due to the additional manufacturing processes.
If color variety is less of a priority, consider sticking to more common colors; white, black, or natural. They are often cheaper and sold in larger quantities. Keep in mind that color can sometimes hide imperfections in your prints, so decide according to the needs of your projects.
Testing and Samples
Before committing to a bulk purchase, you may want to test different filaments. Many suppliers offer sample packs or smaller spools to try out. This way, you can test a variety of filaments on your printer without the commitment of a full kilogram reel, which can potentially save you from a bad investment.
Samples are also a fantastic way to verify your printer's compatibility. Just because a filament is cheap doesn't imply it will work flawlessly with your setup. Through testing, you'll learn how different materials behave, their printing parameters, and their post-processing requirements. This step is crucial for building a smooth, cost-effective printing process.
Where to Buy
Exploring where to buy your filament is a pivotal step in your economical journey. Online marketplaces often offer competitive pricing and user reviews, while local shops might save shipping costs and provide immediate availability. Specialized 3D printing stores, both online and physical, may offer expert guidance and loyalty discounts.
Be watchful of too-good-to-be-true deals, especially from unknown sellers. If an offer seems too low, it might indicate a compromise in filament quality. A reliable source with good customer service will prove invaluable if you encounter any issues with your purchase, making it worth your investment.
Hands-on Reviews and Recommendations from Discussion-Boards
In the quest to find the most affordable 3D printer filament, we've conducted thorough research to bring you a curated selection of resources. Our findings are categorized into reviews, forum posts, Reddit discussions, and videos, all chosen for their credibility and the practical insights they offer. These links represent what we believe to be the most valuable information available online regarding the cheapest 3D printer filament.
I am very new to 3D printing, and am enjoying the challenges of the steep learning curve. However I cant find any information about the real world ...
The best deal I've gotten was from Sunlu for "Blind Box" punk silk and PLA at $11/kg with free shipping, and if you use a coupon you can get it...
I like Sunlu Meta filament. You can get their black for about $15 a roll pretty regularly from Amazon. The other colors tend to be closer to ...
The Best / Cheapest 3d Printing PLA Filaments for Print Farm ...
The Best / Cheapest 3d Printing PLA Filaments for Print Farm (Currently)8.
