How much does it cost to 3D print an action figure?

Typically $10.43–$11.13 from a print shop, depending on material.

Based on a typical size of 150 mm tall, 60 cm³ in PLA at 20% infill.

A 150mm (6-inch scale) figure is around 60 cm³ once posed limbs and clothing folds are accounted for, and unlike a vase it usually needs support material under arms, chins, and capes — printed then thrown away. That puts a one-piece figure at roughly $15–$30 from a shop in PLA. Articulated or multi-part figures cost more in both print segments and assembly, and painted commissions are a separate art-priced service.

Adjust the estimate

Price breakdown

14.9 g · ~0.8 hr print

Material$0.74
Machine time$2.40
Labor (setup)$5.00
Markup$2.44
Estimated price$10.59

What drives the cost

Supports are paid waste

Overhanging anatomy needs support structures that consume material and print time, then get cut away. A well-oriented figure can cut support cost in half.

Fine layers for faces

Faces and details demand 0.08–0.12mm layers — two to three times the print duration of standard 0.2mm settings, billed as machine time.

One piece vs articulated

Joints, pins, and multi-part assembly multiply setup and labor. A static one-piece pose is the budget option.

Get an exact price, not a typical one

Have the actual STL file? Our free calculator measures it in your browser — no upload, no signup — and prices it with the same formula shops use.

Get an exact quote Run a shop? Start free

Frequently asked questions

FDM or resin for action figures?

Resin captures fine facial detail better and is standard for collector-grade figures, at roughly 1.5–3× the cost. FDM at fine layers is the budget route for 150mm+ figures.

Why does the pose change the price?

Outstretched arms and flowing capes need dense supports; a compact standing pose needs few. Support volume is real material and time on the quote.

Can I get the figure painted?

Printing and painting are separate services. A paint-ready sanded figure adds modest labor; full commission painting is priced per artist, often exceeding the print cost.