Layer Height Calculator
Select your nozzle diameter to see recommended layer heights.
Layer height is one of the most impactful settings in 3D printing. It determines the thickness of each horizontal slice the printer deposits, directly affecting surface finish, print time, and part strength. A smaller layer height produces smoother surfaces and finer detail, while a larger layer height speeds up the print at the cost of visible stepping on curved or angled surfaces.
This calculator recommends layer heights based on your nozzle diameter using the widely accepted rule that layer height should be between 25% and 75% of the nozzle size. Three presets are provided: Quality mode for the smoothest finish, Balanced mode for everyday prints, and Draft mode when speed matters more than appearance. Each value is rounded to a stepper-motor-friendly increment so your printer can position the Z axis accurately.
After selecting a layer height, pair it with the right print speed and flow rate to get the best results. Thinner layers generally allow faster travel speeds without sacrificing quality, while thicker layers demand more material flow, so make sure your hotend can handle the required volumetric throughput.