How print time is estimated
A printer lays down plastic at a volumetric rate: layer height × line width × speed. Real printers never hold full speed — they accelerate, slow for corners, travel and retract — so we multiply by an efficiency factor (40–60% is typical for older bed slingers, 60–80% for fast CoreXY machines).
flow = layer × line width × speed × efficiency (mm³/s)
time = extruded volume ÷ flow + layers × layer-change time
The extruded volume comes from your STL using the same shell-plus-infill model as our STL weight calculator. Calibrate the efficiency once: compare one estimate with your slicer, then keep that value.
What makes prints faster
Thicker layers and wider lines raise flow the most: going from 0.2 mm to 0.28 mm layers cuts time by about 30%. Lower infill helps on large solid parts; on small parts the walls dominate. Your hotend's maximum flow (around 10–15 mm³/s for standard hotends, 25–40 for high-flow) caps how fast you can really go.
FAQ
How accurate is this print time estimate?
Usually within 20–30% once the efficiency is tuned to your printer. Your slicer simulates every move, so it remains the final word; this tool is for quick quotes and comparisons before slicing.
Why is my real print slower than the speed I set?
Acceleration limits, corners, small features, travel moves, retractions, minimum layer time cooling and slower first/outer-wall speeds all reduce the average speed. That is what the efficiency factor captures.
Does layer height change print time?
Yes, roughly in proportion. Doubling layer height roughly halves the number of layers and the print time, at the cost of visible layer lines.
How much electricity does a long print use?
Multiply hours by average power. A 10-hour print on a 120 W printer uses about 1.2 kWh. Use the 3D print cost calculator to turn that into money.
Recommended gear
- Plug-in power meter — Measures your printer’s real wattage for accurate cost estimates.
- Hardened / brass nozzle set — Spare nozzles; hardened steel for CF/glow filaments.
- Textured PEI build plate — Reliable adhesion and easy release; check your printer’s size.
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