Where do I find my model volume?

Most CAD tools (Fusion 360, FreeCAD, Tinkercad) show volume in object properties. Slicers like Cura or PrusaSlicer also display it in their print statistics panel. Export the value in cm³.

Why does my actual print time differ from the estimate?

This tool uses a simplified constant-width extrusion model. Real slicers account for acceleration, travel moves, retractions, supports, wall geometry, top/bottom layers, and feature-specific speeds. Treat the result as a rough comparison; complex prints can differ substantially from slicer output.

What density is used for filament weight?

The calculator uses 1.24 g/cm³, which is standard PLA density. PETG (~1.27), ABS (~1.04), and TPU (~1.20) differ slightly. Adjust cost estimates if you use other materials.

What shell fraction does the tool assume?

A shell fraction of 0.20 (20%) is assumed to cover perimeter walls and top/bottom layers. This is typical for 2–3 perimeters at 0.4 mm nozzle with 2–3 top/bottom layers.

Does infill pattern affect the result?

Not directly in this formula. Gyroid and honeycomb patterns print slightly faster than grid at the same percentage due to fewer direction changes. This tool uses a linear infill model as a baseline.

3D Print Time Estimator

Enter model volume, infill, and print settings to estimate print time, filament use, and cost.

Print Settings

Model Volume (cm³) *

Find this in your CAD tool or slicer print statistics.

Infill Percentage (%)

Print Speed (mm/s)

Layer Height (mm)

Nozzle Diameter (mm)

Filament Diameter

1.75 mm 2.85 mm

Filament Price ($/kg) optional

Enter model volume and click Calculate to see your estimate.

Summary

Enter model volume, infill, and print settings to estimate print time, filament use, and cost.

How it works

Enter your model volume in cubic centimeters (cm³). Export this from your slicer or CAD software.
Set infill percentage — higher infill means more material and longer print times.
Adjust print speed (mm/s), layer height (mm), and nozzle diameter (mm) to match your printer profile.
Select your filament diameter (1.75 mm for most printers, 2.85 mm for some).
Optionally enter your filament price per kilogram to get a cost estimate.
Click Calculate to see estimated print time, filament length, weight, and cost.

Use cases

Estimate how long a print job will take before starting.
Compare print times for different infill percentages.
Calculate filament usage to check if you have enough on the spool.
Budget material costs for a batch of prints.
Quickly sanity-check slicer time estimates against a formula-based result.
Plan print queues when running multiple jobs overnight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-09-22 · Reviewed by Nham Vu