When 3D printing beats moulding
Injection moulding is cheapest per part at high volumes, but the mould itself is a major upfront cost and takes weeks to make. For short runs, bridge production while tooling is made, or products that are still changing, printing is often the better choice. There is no break-even number that fits every part; the quote reflects your geometry and quantity.
Getting consistent parts
- Tell us the critical dimensions so we can orient and check them consistently across the batch.
- Say how parts should be packed if they’re going straight to assembly or resale.
- Ask about finishing — support marks, colour, and surface texture should be agreed in the quote.
Designing for a batch
Small design changes can make a big difference in batch cost: flat bases that need no support, consistent wall thickness, and avoiding tall thin features all help. See design for 3D printing and what drives 3D printing cost.
Questions
What quantity counts as a small batch?+
Anything from a handful of parts to a few hundred. Enter the quantity on the request form and we will quote the best approach.
Does the price per part drop with quantity?+
Usually, because setup and review are shared across more parts. The written quote shows the total for your quantity.
Last updated October 27, 2026 · NanoArc3D