G-code Print Time & Filament Cost Estimator Community

What this tool does

Most G-code time estimators simply divide distance by feed rate, which is far too optimistic because a printer constantly accelerates and brakes. This tool runs a Marlin-style look-ahead planner over every move: it computes junction speeds from the corner angle (junction deviation), applies your acceleration, and integrates the real trapezoidal speed profile of each segment. Choose a preset for your printer class or enter your acceleration, and the estimate lands much closer to the real clock.

How to use it, step by step

1. Drop in your .gcode file.
2. Pick a printer preset or enter acceleration and junction deviation.
3. Set filament price, power draw and any labour or markup.
4. Read the time, filament and cost breakdown.

Tips from the guide

• Match acceleration to what your firmware actually uses — M204 commands inside the file take priority.
• Calibrate once with a real print; the factor captures your printer's quirks.
• Heating and homing time are not included in the move time; add a few minutes.
• Use average, not peak, printer power for electricity (hotend and bed cycle on and off).

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using a slicer estimate that ignores acceleration limits.
• Forgetting the failure allowance when pricing prints.
• Entering peak wattage instead of average.

Who uses it

• Print-on-demand sellers. Quote jobs from the actual G-code.
• Print farms. Plan machine time and electricity.
• Hobbyists. Know if a print will finish overnight.

How to ask a question people can answer

A good thread on the G-code Print Time & Filament Cost Estimator saves everyone time. Start with a title that names the exact problem, such as the input you used, the result you expected and the result you got. A title like “Not working” is hard to answer, while a title with the specifics gets replies quickly.

• Say what you tried. List the steps you followed and any settings you changed, so replies do not repeat what you already did.
• Share a small example. A short sample input and the output you saw is worth more than a long description. Remove anything private first.
• Mention your setup. Your device, browser and whether you are on a phone or a computer can explain many odd results.
• One question per thread. Separate topics get clearer answers and are easier to find later with the search box above.
• Come back and reply. If a suggestion worked, say so and upvote it, and if you found the fix yourself, post it for the next person.

Community rules

Be kind, stay on topic and keep personal data out of your posts. Do not post adult, hateful or illegal content, advertising or repeated links. Every post is shown with its author’s username and date, and posts that break these rules can be hidden by moderators. This space is for help with the G-code Print Time & Filament Cost Estimator and related tasks, and it is separate from the sitewide discussion forum where broader topics live.