3D Printing Price Guide 2026: Costs by Technology & Material

Quick answer: In 2026, FDM 3D printing prices at CT3D are based on the actual grams of plastic used: PLA and PETG from 650 VND/gram (≈ US$0.025/g), ABS from 1,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.04/g), ASA from 2,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.08/g) and carbon fiber filament from 2,750 VND/gram (≈ US$0.11/g). Resin (SLA) printing typically costs about 1.5–2.5 times more than FDM. In the Ho Chi Minh City market, a resin model under 5 cm tall costs around 150,000–400,000 VND (≈ US$6–15). Metal 3D printing and MJF/SLS printing are quoted per file. The 3D printing price depends on five main factors: material weight, printing technology, material type, machine time and surface finish level.

I work in technical sales at CT3D, and every day I get dozens of the same questions: “How much to print this?”, “Why does one shop quote 200,000 VND and another 600,000 VND?”, “Do you charge per gram or per piece?”. This 3D printing price guide answers all of them with concrete figures and a clear calculation method, so you can estimate costs before sending your file. It is also a hub article linking to detailed guides on each technology: SLA resin 3D printing, SLM metal 3D printing, custom 3D model printing and 3D printing technologies compared.

All prices in this article are indicative, in Vietnamese dong (VND), with approximate US dollar equivalents at 1 USD ≈ 26,000 VND. Final prices are confirmed per file.

Table of contents

1. How is 3D printing priced?
2. CT3D’s 2026 FDM 3D printing price list by material
3. Market 3D printing prices by model size
4. SLA resin 3D printing prices
5. MJF/SLS and metal 3D printing prices
6. Common additional costs
7. Real pricing examples
8. 7 ways to cut 3D printing costs without compromising requirements
9. CT3D’s quoting process
10. Frequently asked questions

1. How is 3D printing priced?

Many customers assume 3D printing works like paper printing – price by size. That is not the case. A 10 cm hollow model can be cheaper than a solid 5 cm gear. That is why professional 3D printing shops usually price based on the following factors.

1.1. Material weight (grams)

This is the biggest cost driver for FDM. The slicer software calculates exactly how many grams of plastic are needed, including the part walls, the internal fill (infill) and the support structures. The bigger and more solid the part, the more plastic it uses and the higher the price. If you are not sure what infill is, read What is infill and how does it affect cost and strength.

1.2. Printing technology

Each technology has different machine and material costs. FDM (fused filament extrusion) is the cheapest. SLA/resin (curing liquid resin with UV light) gives a smoother surface but uses more expensive material. MJF/SLS (sintering PA12 nylon powder) is used for functional, load-bearing parts. SLM (laser melting of metal powder) is the most expensive technology because both the machines and metal powders are costly.

1.3. Material type

Even within FDM, filament prices vary considerably. According to raw material price lists published by several suppliers in April 2026, PLA filament costs about 250,000 VND/kg (≈ US$9.60), PETG about 320,000 VND/kg (≈ US$12.30), ABS about 350,000 VND/kg (≈ US$13.50) and nylon (PA) about 900,000 VND/kg (≈ US$35). Carbon fiber and engineering filaments cost much more. Higher raw material prices mean higher service prices.

1.4. Machine time

A print can take 30 minutes or run for 3 days straight. The longer the machine runs, the higher the depreciation, electricity and supervision costs. Shops in the market typically charge machine depreciation of 30,000–150,000 VND/hour (≈ US$1.15–5.80) depending on the machine. Thin layers (0.08–0.12 mm) give a nicer surface but can take 2–3 times longer than 0.2 mm layers.

1.5. Complexity and post-processing

Models with many overhangs need more supports, which costs extra material and removal labor. Sanding, painting, plating or assembly are priced separately. See also What are supports in 3D printing and basic post-processing steps for 3D prints.

In short: 3D printing price = (Material weight × Material unit price) + Machine time cost + Post-processing cost + Surcharges (if any: rush orders, file modeling, delivery).

2. CT3D’s 2026 FDM 3D printing price list by material

Below are the indicative prices CT3D currently applies to its FDM 3D printing service. Prices are based on the actual grams of plastic measured by the slicer.

Material	Indicative unit price	Characteristics	Best for
PLA	From 650 VND/gram (≈ US$0.025)	Easy to print, good surface, many colors	Display models, form prototypes, student projects
PETG	From 650 VND/gram (≈ US$0.025)	Tough, better water resistance than PLA	Enclosures, light outdoor use, parts needing flexibility
ABS	From 1,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.04)	Impact resistant, fair heat resistance, can be sanded, painted and plated	Device housings, assembly parts, engineering prototypes
ASA	From 2,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.08)	UV resistant, colorfast outdoors	Outdoor parts, automotive components, signage
Carbon fiber filament	From 2,750 VND/gram (≈ US$0.11)	Stiff, light, low warping	Jigs and fixtures, load-bearing parts, drones

Notes by order size:

• Parts under 50 grams: minimum order price applies.
• 50 to 500 grams: priced per gram and by material.
• Over 500 grams or batch printing: quoted per project, with a lower unit price per part.

A more detailed price list by material is available in the article Latest FDM 3D printing prices 2026 on in3d.edu.vn (in Vietnamese).

3. Market 3D printing prices by model size

Many customers do not have a file yet, so they do not know how many grams their model weighs. In that case you can estimate by size. The table below summarizes prices published by 3D printing shops in Ho Chi Minh City in 2026. This is an indicative market price range, not CT3D’s price list.

Model size (largest dimension)	FDM printing (PLA/PETG)	Standard SLA resin printing
Under 5 cm	From about 80,000 VND (≈ US$3)	150,000 – 400,000 VND (≈ US$6–15)
5 – 10 cm	300,000 – 700,000 VND (≈ US$12–27)	300,000 – 1,200,000 VND (≈ US$12–46)
10 – 15 cm	300,000 – 1,500,000 VND (≈ US$12–58)	800,000 – 2,500,000 VND (≈ US$31–96)
15 – 20 cm	800,000 – 2,000,000 VND (≈ US$31–77)	1,500,000 – 3,500,000 VND (≈ US$58–135)
20 – 30 cm	1 – 4 million VND (≈ US$38–155)	3 – 7 million VND (≈ US$115–270)
Over 30 cm	3 – 15 million VND (≈ US$115–580) (up to 50 cm)	Quoted per file

Compiled from: public price lists of 3D printing shops in Ho Chi Minh City, updated April–October 2026. The ranges are wide because they depend on infill, layer height and model complexity.

Some other shops price FDM as an all-in rate per gram, including machine time: standard PLA/PETG at 0.2 mm layers about 1,200–1,800 VND/gram (≈ US$0.05–0.07), functional prints (PETG/ABS/ASA, 30–50% infill) about 1,800–2,800 VND/gram (≈ US$0.07–0.11), and high-detail prints at 0.08–0.12 mm layers about 3,000–5,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.12–0.19), with a minimum order of about 70,000 VND (≈ US$2.70). So when comparing quotes, always ask exactly what the price includes.

4. SLA resin 3D printing prices

Resin printing gives a smooth surface and sharp detail down to 0.05 mm, so it is widely used for statues, figures, jewelry, dental work and product samples that need high aesthetics. In return, resin is more expensive than FDM filament: market resin prices range from about 0.8 to 3 million VND/kg (≈ US$31–115) depending on type. Overall, SLA printing typically costs about 1.5–2.5 times more than FDM for the same model.

Engineering resins carry a premium over standard resin. Typical 2026 market levels:

Resin type	Premium over standard resin	Applications
Tough resin (ABS-like)	+30% to +50%	Assembly parts, snap fits, hinges
Clear resin	+40% to +70%	Lamps, ducts, flow visualization models
High-temperature resin	+60% to +100%	Parts near heat sources, trial molds
Medical and food-safe resin	+100% to +200%	Dental, medical device prototypes

CT3D runs large-format resin printers with a build volume up to 800 × 800 × 500 mm, capable of printing statues and models up to 1 m tall with minimal sectioning. Details on materials, resolution and choosing a resin are in our article Custom SLA resin 3D printing.

5. MJF/SLS and metal 3D printing prices

5.1. MJF/SLS printing in PA12

MJF and SLS use PA12 (nylon 12) powder, need no supports, and can produce complex parts, print-in-place assemblies and strong functional components. Accuracy is about ±0.05 mm. Pricing is usually based on part volume (cm³) and the build height it occupies in the chamber. Nesting many small parts in one build is much cheaper than printing them individually. Because pricing depends on the file and quantity, shops in the market usually do not publish fixed price lists and quote per file instead.

5.2. SLM metal 3D printing

SLM metal printing uses a laser to melt metal powders such as 316L stainless steel, AlSi10Mg aluminum, Ti6Al4V titanium, copper and Inconel. At CT3D, accuracy is about ±0.02 mm with a build volume of 250 × 250 × 300 mm. Metal printing prices depend on:

• Metal powder type (titanium and Inconel cost more than stainless steel and aluminum).
• Part volume and weight.
• Build height (which determines machine time).
• Complexity and the amount of support that must be removed.
• Post-processing: stress-relief annealing, CNC machining of mating surfaces, polishing, bead blasting, plating.

There is no public, standardized metal printing price list in the market because every part is very different. On the other hand, printing several parts in one build significantly lowers the unit price. Read Custom SLM metal 3D printing to learn when metal printing makes more sense than CNC machining.

6. Common additional costs

When you receive a quote, check whether the following items are included to avoid surprises at payment:

• 3D modeling: needed if you only have photos, sketches or a physical sample. Market rates start at about 200,000 VND (≈ US$8) for a simple model. Complex models, statues and characters are priced by difficulty. For physical samples, CT3D offers 3D scanning and reverse engineering to produce an accurate file.
• File repair: STL files with open meshes, walls that are too thin or wrong scale. See What is an STL file.
• Post-processing: sanding, priming, painting, plating. Market rates: single-color painting about 200,000–500,000 VND per model (≈ US$8–19), multi-color airbrushing about 600,000 – 2 million VND per model (≈ US$23–77).
• Rush surcharge: many shops add 30% for delivery in 3–4 days and 50% for 1–2 days.
• Packing and shipping: large or fragile models need wooden crates or foam packaging.

7. Real pricing examples

To make it concrete, here are three typical examples. The figures only illustrate the calculation; exact prices depend on the file.

Example 1: Electronics enclosure printed in PETG

An enclosure of 120 × 80 × 40 mm with 2 mm walls and 20% infill. The slicer calculates about 90 grams of plastic including supports. Material cost from the price list: 90 × 650 = 58,500 VND (≈ US$2.25). Because this is below the minimum order value, the customer pays the minimum price. If the customer orders 20 units, the shop nests several on one build plate and the unit price drops well below a one-off print.

Example 2: ABS inspection fixture for a factory

A fixture weighing about 350 grams that must withstand impacts and shop-floor temperatures. In ABS: 350 × 1,000 = 350,000 VND (≈ US$13.50) for material. If more stiffness and less warping are needed, switch to carbon fiber filament: 350 × 2,750 = 962,500 VND (≈ US$37). The customer weighs cost against the required durability. For fixtures used daily on a production line, carbon fiber is usually worth it because it needs replacing less often.

Example 3: 25 cm display statue

The customer needs a smooth statue for painting. Printed in FDM, it needs a lot of sanding labor. Printed in SLA resin, the surface is smooth straight off the printer and paints better. At market rates, a 20–30 cm resin statue costs about 3–7 million VND (≈ US$115–270) unpainted. For larger statues or multiple copies, CT3D usually recommends printing one master and then making a silicone mold to cast resin or composite, which sharply reduces the cost per copy.

8. 7 ways to cut 3D printing costs without compromising requirements

1. Match the technology to the purpose. FDM PLA is enough for form prototypes. Use resin only when you need a smooth surface or fine detail.
2. Reduce infill. Display models only need 10–15% infill. Only load-bearing parts need 40–100%.
3. Hollow resin models. Large resin statues should be hollowed with 2–3 mm walls and drain holes. This saves a lot of material.
4. Choose a smart print orientation. The right orientation reduces supports and print time and improves strength in the load direction.
5. Batch your orders. Printing 10 parts at once is cheaper than 10 separate prints of 1 part, especially with MJF and metal.
6. Order early and avoid rush jobs. Orders with a 5–7 day lead time usually carry no surcharge.
7. Consider molding for larger quantities. From a few dozen parts upward, printing one master and casting in silicone or CNC machining can be cheaper than printing each one.

9. CT3D’s 3D printing quoting process

1. Send your file: STL, STEP, OBJ or 3MF via email, Zalo or our contact form. No file yet? Send photos, drawings, dimensions or a physical sample.
2. State your requirements: intended use (display, assembly, load-bearing, outdoor), preferred material, quantity, color, whether painting is needed, and required date.
3. Engineers check the file: fixing mesh errors, checking wall thickness, calculating weight and print time.
4. Quote sent: clearly stating technology, material, unit price, post-processing cost and lead time.
5. Production: once confirmed, the workshop prints, removes supports and finishes the parts.
6. Delivery: pick up at the workshop or nationwide delivery via Viettel Post, Giao Hang Tiet Kiem, Vietnam Post, or air freight for urgent orders.

CT3D has more than 12 years of experience in 3D printing, 3D scanning and prototyping. Our network of workshops in Binh Duong, Ho Chi Minh City (Linh Trung, Tam Binh, former District 6), Can Tho, Da Nang, Bien Hoa, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Hanoi, Hai Duong and Hai Phong lets customers in many provinces send samples and receive parts quickly. Customers in Ho Chi Minh City can also see our 3D printing service in Ho Chi Minh City; customers in the north can see our 3D printing service in Hanoi.

Checklist for comparing 3D printing quotes between shops

When you get several quotes, do not just look at the bottom line. Put them side by side and check each item below. This is how factory purchasing departments evaluate 3D printing suppliers.

• Printing technology: FDM, resin, MJF or metal? Quotes for different technologies cannot be compared directly.
• Specific material: standard PLA or PLA+? Standard ABS or engineering ABS? Standard or tough resin?
• Layer height: 0.1 mm, 0.2 mm or 0.3 mm. Thinner layers look better but take longer.
• Infill and wall thickness: 10% or 50%? 2 perimeters or 4? This directly affects strength.
• Post-processing: are support removal, sanding and painting included?
• Lead time: how many days, and is it guaranteed?
• Shipping and VAT: does the price include delivery and a VAT invoice?
• Reprint policy: what happens if a part is defective due to printing?

CT3D quotes always state these parameters clearly so customers can compare and get internal approval easily.

10. Frequently asked questions about 3D printing prices

How much does 3D printing cost per gram?

For FDM at CT3D: PLA and PETG from 650 VND/gram (≈ US$0.025), ABS from 1,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.04), ASA from 2,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.08), carbon fiber filament from 2,750 VND/gram (≈ US$0.11). Some other shops charge an all-in rate including machine time of about 1,200–5,000 VND/gram (≈ US$0.05–0.19) depending on resolution.

Is 3D printing priced per gram or per part?

FDM is mainly priced per gram combined with print time. Resin is usually quoted per part. MJF/SLS and metal are priced by volume and build. Simple parts in small quantities may be quoted as a fixed price per piece for simplicity.

Why do shops quote different prices for the same model?

Because of different technologies, materials, layer heights, infill, and whether post-processing and delivery are included. When comparing, ask every supplier to state their print parameters.

Is resin 3D printing more expensive than FDM?

Yes. It usually costs about 1.5–2.5 times more for the same model, but the surface is much smoother and needs far less sanding.

How much does metal 3D printing cost?

Metal printing is quoted per file because it depends on powder type, volume, build height and post-processing. Send a STEP file for an accurate quote.

Are there discounts for larger quantities?

Yes. Typical 2026 market levels: 10–30 pieces about 10–15% off, 30–100 pieces about 20–25% off, over 100 pieces about 25–35% off. CT3D quotes each volume project individually.

How long does delivery take?

Small FDM parts with a ready file usually take 1–3 days. Parts that need modeling take 3–7 days. Parts with painted finishes take 7–14 days. Nationwide shipping usually adds 1–3 days.

In-depth articles on this topic

Read more detailed technical analyses from the CT3D team:

• PLA 3D printing cost per gram 2026: from 650 VND/g, how it is calculated and how to save
• ABS and ASA 3D printing cost 2026: from 1,000 VND/g, heat resistant, outdoor use
• PETG 3D printing cost 2026: from 650 VND/g, tougher than PLA, compared with PLA and ABS
• Carbon fiber and nylon 3D printing cost 2026: from 2,750 VND/g, functional parts and fixtures
• 3D printing prices in Ho Chi Minh City 2026: price list, lead times, 3 workshops in Thu Duc and District 6
• 3D printing prices in Binh Duong and Dong Nai for industrial park companies: from 650 VND/g, fast delivery
• 3D printing prices in Hanoi, Hai Phong and Hai Duong 2026: from 650 VND/g, 1–3 day delivery
• How long does 3D printing take & machine-hour cost: 5 factors that set the price
• 3D modeling cost for printing 2026: from photos, 2D drawings or scans – from ~200,000 VND
• High-volume 3D printing & low-volume production: discounts up to 35%, break-even point

Real footage from the CT3D workshop

Watch the video Industrial SLA resin 3D printed products by CT3D to get a clearer picture of the process and product quality. More videos are available on our channel Che Tao Vlog – CT3D.

Contact CT3D – send your file, get a fast quote

Whether you have a 3D file, a 2D drawing, photos or just an idea, you can send it to CT3D. Our engineers will review the file, recommend the right technology and material, and send a quote with the delivery lead time.

• Email: [email protected] – [email protected]
• Hotline / Zalo: +84 975 008 728 (Mr. Thai) – +84 985 936 728 (Mr. Dang), or our contact form
• Head office: Binh Duong.
• Workshops in Ho Chi Minh City: Linh Trung (Thu Duc), Tam Binh (Thu Duc), District 6 (former).
• Other workshops and drop-off points: Can Tho, Da Nang, Bien Hoa, Ba Ria – Vung Tau, Hanoi, Hai Duong, Hai Phong. Nationwide delivery.
• Website: ct3dgroup.com – in3d.edu.vn

CT3D – 3D design & prototyping: 3D printing, 3D scanning, reverse engineering, silicone mold making, painting and finishing, CNC machining, composite fabrication, and supply of 3D printers and 3D printing materials.