How accurate are print time estimates?

Slicer estimates are typically within 10-20% of actual. This simple calculator gives a rough ballpark. Actual time depends on acceleration, jerk, retraction moves and number of travel moves.

What takes the most time in a print?

Perimeters and infill take the bulk of time. Travel moves, retractions, and layer changes add 10-20% overhead. Smaller layers mean more layers and thus more time.

How can I reduce print time?

Increase layer height, reduce infill percentage, use fewer perimeters, increase speed (within your hot end flow limit), or use a larger nozzle.

3DPrintCalcs

Print Time Estimator — Hours & Minutes

Estimate total print time from object height, speed and layer settings.

Object Height

Layer Height

Avg Path Length per Layer

Total extrusion path per layer

Print Speed

Travel Overhead

Extra time for non-printing moves

How We Calculate This

Formula

Layers = Object height / Layer height
Print time per layer = Perimeter length per layer / Print speed
Total time = Print time x (1 + Travel overhead %)

This is a simplified estimate. For accurate timing, use your slicer software which accounts for acceleration, travel paths and retraction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Layer Height Calculator

Find optimal layer heights based on your nozzle size and desired quality.

Print Speed Calculator

Calculate maximum print speed based on volumetric flow rate and layer dimensions.

Infill Calculator

Estimate material usage and print time for different infill percentages and patterns.

Wall Thickness Calculator

Calculate wall thickness from number of perimeters and nozzle/line width.

Nozzle Size Calculator

Determine suitable nozzle sizes for your desired detail level and print speed.

Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify settings with test prints before committing to final prints.