Print Speed

Also known as: Printing Speed, Feed Rate

beginner Slicer Settings ⚙️ Slicer Setting

How fast the print head moves while extruding material, measured in mm/s.

Print speed is how fast the print head moves while laying down filament. Higher speeds mean faster prints but potentially lower quality.

Speed vs. Quality

  • Slower (20-40mm/s) - Best quality, fine details
  • Medium (40-60mm/s) - Balanced, everyday printing
  • Fast (60-100mm/s) - Draft prints, good enough quality
  • Very fast (100-300mm/s) - Specialized printers only

What Limits Speed

  • Extruder melt rate
  • Hotend heat capacity
  • Acceleration limits
  • Frame stability
  • Filament type

Different Speeds for Different Features

Slicers allow separate speeds for:

  • Perimeters - Visible surfaces, slower
  • Infill - Hidden, can be faster
  • First layer - Always slow
  • Supports - Can be faster
  • Travel - Fastest (no extrusion)

Material Speeds

MaterialTypical Speed
PLA40-100mm/s
PETG30-60mm/s
ABS40-60mm/s
TPU15-30mm/s

Tip

Start with recommended profile speeds, then adjust based on results. Quality issues? Slow down. Happy with quality? Speed up.