PETG vs ABS: cost compared
ABS is cheaper per volume because it's lighter. Its enclosure power and higher failure rate often erase that saving unless your printer is already enclosed.
| PETG | ABS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per 100 cm³ of solid part | $2.79 | $2.08 |
| Example print (preset) | $7.27 | $7.41 |
| Typical spool price | $18–28 per kg | $16–25 per kg |
| Density | about 1.27 g/cm³ | about 1.04 g/cm³ |
| Nozzle / bed | 220–250 °C / 70–85 °C | 230–260 °C / 95–110 °C |
| Enclosure | Optional | Recommended |
Typical published ranges and mid-range prices. Example prints use each page's calculator preset. Cost per volume accounts for density: a lighter filament gives more parts per kilogram.
Choose PETG for
No enclosure, fewer failures, simpler printing
- It can bond too strongly to smooth PEI. Use a release agent.
Choose ABS for
Enclosed printer, heat resistance, acetone smoothing
- It gives off fumes while printing, so it needs ventilation or filtration.
What changes the comparison
- Its density is slightly higher than PLA's, so the same model weighs a bit more.
- A hotter bed adds a little to the per-hour power cost.
- Its low density means more parts per spool than PLA.
- A 100 °C+ bed and a warm enclosure noticeably raise average power draw.
More comparisons
Know your cost. Now check the demand.
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