How Much Does It Cost To 3D Print A Figure
In Singapore, basic FDM prints of small figurines start around SGD 10–30, while high-detail SLA resin figures typically cost SGD 60–120 or more. Larger, complex or premium-material figures can reach SGD 250–500+ depending on size, resolution, and post-processing.
Ever wondered why some 3D-printed miniatures cost just a few dollars while others run into hundreds? Whether you’re a hobbyist, designer or engineer, knowing the real cost to 3D print a figure in Singapore can save you serious money. In this guide, you’ll discover the latest pricing data, hidden cost factors most people miss, and expert tips to slash your 3D printing bill.
What Recent Data in Singapore Shows
- According to BestReviews.sg, filament for FDM printing in Singapore costs about SGD 15-50 per kilogram, depending on material type. SLA/MSLA resins are more expensive around SGD 50-90 or more per litre.
- Local 3D printing services note that cost is affected heavily by material selection, object size, complexity, printing technology, print volume, and finishing requirements
- Creatz3D confirms that FDM tends to be the most affordable method, while SLA, SLS, or metal/ceramic printing demand higher costs due to material and equipment costs.
Types of 3D Printing Materials Used for Figures
Choosing the right material directly affects your figure’s cost, durability, and finish. Below are the most common 3D printing materials used in Singapore, plus resources to explore them further.
PLA (Polylactic Acid)
PLA is the most affordable and widely used filament for hobbyists. It’s easy to print, has a smooth surface finish, and is derived from renewable resources. Learn more about how pla is made.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)
ABS offers higher impact resistance and heat tolerance than PLA. It’s popular for functional prototypes and durable figurines, but requires higher printing temperatures and ventilation.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol)
PETG strikes a balance between PLA and ABS, strong, slightly flexible, and easy to print. Good for display and functional parts alike.
Resin (Standard, Clear, Tough, Castable)
Resins used in SLA/MSLA printing deliver ultra-fine details ideal for miniatures and collectibles. However, resins cost more per litre and need washing/curing. For more detail on options, see our guide on types of 3d printing materials and their applications.
Nylon (Polyamide)
A tough, engineering-grade filament for functional prototypes and mechanical parts. Nylon offers durability and wear resistance but absorbs moisture easily and requires controlled storage. You may interested to know nylon vs polyester, which is better?
Still unsure which material to pick? Check our complete guide on what materials can be used in 3d printing to compare properties, applications, and pricing for different filaments and resins.
Average Cost to 3D Print a Figure in Singapore
Below are more accurate, realistic cost ranges (SGD) for printing figures of different sizes/types, using FDM and SLA printing. These ranges assume basic finishing unless specified.
| Figure Type / Size | FDM (basic filament, moderate detail) | SLA / Resin (high detail, smooth finish) |
|---|---|---|
| Tiny miniature (≈ 5 cm, low-detail) | SGD 10-30 | SGD 30-70 |
| Small figure (≈ 10-12 cm) | SGD 25-60 | SGD 60-120 |
| Medium figure (≈ 15-20 cm) | SGD 60-120 | SGD 120-250 |
| Large/detailed figure (> 20 cm, intricate design) | SGD 120-250+ | SGD 250-500+ or higher depending on finish & complexity |
Notes:
- These estimates exclude very premium or specialty materials (e.g. engineering resins, castable resins, transparent resins).
- Post-processing (sanding, painting, smoothing, metal inserts) can add 20-50% or more depending on the level.
- Bulk orders (multiple figures) or simpler geometry will lower per-unit cost.
Key Factors That Affect Price
To understand why costs vary, these are the crucial variables. Address these in your quote or when designing for 3D printing.
Material Type
- FDM Filaments: PLA, PETG, ABS, etc. Lower cost, easier to work with. Filament cost: ~SGD 15-25/kg for basic PLA; higher for ABS, specialty polymers.
- Resins (SLA / MSLA): Standard, high-detail, castable, transparent. Resin cost: ~SGD 50-90+/L for standard resins; specialty resins may exceed this.
- Metal / Ceramic / High-Performance Polymers: Significantly more expensive materials + specialized printing or post-processing required. Often used for functional or structural parts. Local providers list such jobs at premium rates.
Printing Technology & Resolution
- Layer height / resolution: SLA / MSLA can achieve ~0.02-0.05 mm layer thickness; FDM more often ~0.1-0.3 mm. Finer layers = more print time, more material and support = higher cost.
- Supports / shell thickness / infill density: More supports or thicker shells/infill increase material usage & post-processing labour.
Size, Volume & Complexity
- Size: Larger models use more material and take longer print time; scaling up cost is nonlinear.
- Complexity: Highly detailed geometry, overhangs, undercuts or hollow sections all require more preparation, supports, sometimes manual model modification.
Operating & Overhead Costs
- Electricity during printing & post-processing (washing, curing)
- Labor: technician preparation, support removal, finishing, inspection
- Equipment depreciation: printer wear and maintenance, resin vat, nozzles, etc.
- Consumables: resin, filament, support material, build plate, masking film, etc.
Post-Processing & Finishing
- Smoothing, painting, polishing, UV curing, maybe adding inserts or mounting.
- Finishing level heavily influences final cost. Cosmetic finishes cost more.
Why Are 3D Printed Figures Sometimes So Expensive?
They cost more because high-resolution printing uses pricier materials, takes longer print times, and requires skilled post-processing. Complex designs, premium resins or engineering plastics, and one-off custom jobs also add setup and labour costs, making each figure more expensive than mass-produced parts.
Is It Costly to 3D Print Compared to Other Manufacturing?
No. It depends on volume, part function, and required finish.
- For prototyping, one-off decorative figures, or small batches, 3D printing (especially SLA or FDM) often beats injection moulding in cost, because mould tooling is expensive.
- For high-volume production of identical parts, moulding or certain metal fabrication / mass production methods may work out cheaper.
Is SLA always more expensive than FDM?
Conclusion
3D printing figures can range from budget-friendly miniatures to premium, high-detail collectibles depending on material, size, and finish. By understanding the key cost factors from technology choice (SLA vs FDM) to post-processing and materials, you can make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary expenses, and get the results you want faster.
Get an Instant Quote Today! Contact The Monster Builder today to price your 3D printed figures or miniatures. We offer SLA 3D Printing and FDM 3D Printing with fast turnaround, plus expert advice on materials and finishes. Optional services like sanding, priming, painting, and threaded inserts are available to give your figures a professional, ready-to-use finish.
