How do I know how much filament is left?
- Put the whole spool on a kitchen scale.
- Subtract the empty spool’s weight. Weigh one empty spool of each brand you use and write the number on a label — spool weights vary a lot between brands and between plastic and cardboard spools.
- Compare what’s left with the grams your slicer says the next print needs, leaving some spare.
How many meters are in a kilogram of filament?
| Material | 1.75 mm: m per kg | 2.85 mm: m per kg |
|---|---|---|
| PLA | 335 m | 126 m |
| PETG | 327 m | 123 m |
| ABS | 400 m | 151 m |
| ASA | 389 m | 146 m |
| TPU (flexible) | 344 m | 130 m |
| Nylon (PA) | 365 m | 138 m |
| Polycarbonate (PC) | 346 m | 131 m |
| HIPS | 400 m | 151 m |
| PVA (support) | 338 m | 127 m |
Lighter materials such as ABS give more meters per kilogram than denser ones such as PETG.
What should I do with spool ends?
Short leftovers are perfect for small single-color parts, calibration prints and test pieces — check the grams needed first. Or put them toward the purge in a multi-color print; see the multi-color waste calculator.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an empty filament spool weigh?
It depends on the brand and material: lightweight cardboard spools can weigh much less than thick plastic ones. The most reliable way is to weigh an empty spool of the brand you use once and keep that number.
Is the length on the label accurate?
Labels usually give the filament weight (for example 1 kg). Length depends on density and diameter, so it’s calculated — the table above shows typical values.
Can I print with the very last bit of filament?
Often not completely — the last part of the filament may be stuck to the spool hub or too short to reach the extruder. Leave 10–20 g of margin when planning a print.
Estimates for planning. Results depend on the numbers you enter — use the gram, hour and ml figures from your slicer, and your real material and power prices. Material densities are typical values; check your spool or bottle datasheet for exact figures.