How Much Does Prototyping Cost: Complete Guide for 2024

Creating a prototype for your product is an important part of crowdfunding. And if you’re planning to launch on Kickstarter, you’ll need a physical prototype to even get your campaign approved. This raises a big question: How much does prototyping cost and how much should you spend depending on your budget?

As creators, you’ll naturally want to pay whatever is necessary for the sake of good product development — and that’s completely understandable. A vital part of crowdfunding, however, is having a complete understanding of your financials to mitigate the risk of failure. In this guide, we’ll look at the different factors that affect prototyping costs, the different methods available, and provide pro tips to help you manage these expenses.

Key Takeaways

• How much does it cost to get a prototype made
• Understanding what affects prototyping costs to help with budgeting and planning
• Different prototyping methods and their associated costs and benefits

What is prototyping and why is it important?

In product development, prototyping is the process of creating a physical (or sometimes virtual) mockup. With this mockup, you can put into practice all of the features and functions that you want your final product to do. When you have your mockup that you can see, touch, and test, you’re able to make improvements before finalizing it and bringing the first version to market.

Besides being essential for the development phase, why else are prototypes important? In the context of crowdfunding, your prototype will be your way to prove to your audience that the great new idea you’re selling to them is legitimate. In fact, having just one working prototype is all you need to start generating revenue.

Traditional product launches require creators to have already developed their product and manufactured it, meaning they have to have spent a lot of money before making a single dollar back. Crowdfunding is a much less risky alternative that allows creators to generate funds from backers who want to receive the product in the future. All it takes is a prototype, and someone launching on crowdfunding can build their whole campaign off of it.

When you have a working prototype for crowdfunding, you can do so much more with it than just test features. You can use it in your photography, demonstrate its functionality in walkthrough videos, and validate the demand for your product through pre-campaign marketing. Additionally, crowdfunding can be a low-risk way to get feedback from backers who might offer insight into what features or changes they’d like to see that you can still implement before committing to the first manufacturing run.

Knowing that your prototype can be a cost-saving tool for launching your business is one thing, but it’s another to understand what factors influence the cost to prototype in the first place. Having an understanding of how much it costs to build a prototype can impact how much money you will ultimately need to raise in your campaign.

Factors influencing the cost to prototype a product

Many factors influence the cost to create a prototype. While materials, components, and labor are the primary cost drivers for prototyping, other factors to consider include things like production methods and design complexity. Let’s take an in-depth look at how to predict how much prototyping costs.

Material selection and manufacturing process

The materials you choose and the process you use to make your prototype can greatly affect the cost. High-end materials like metals or special plastics are more expensive than common materials like ABS plastic or PLA used in 3D printing. Different processes like CNC machining or injection molding also affect costs.

When speaking to a manufacturer, they will ask you about the types and grades you want to use for your product. Some common questions you may encounter include:

• What temperature range will it need to withstand?
• Should it be low odor?
• Can you accept a percent or regrind?
• Etc.

If you’re wondering how much does it cost to make a prototype, it will largely depend on these material and manufacturing choices.

Complexity and functionality of the prototype

The simpler the prototype, the cheaper and quicker it is to produce. Complex prototypes with intricate designs or advanced functions need more time and resources to develop, which translates to higher costs. Advanced requirements can include electronics for moving parts, mechanical components, and more advanced materials for temperature or weather resistance.

In some cases, it may be necessary to iterate on a couple different versions of your prototype to find the right balance of complexity and functionality. This adds to the overall cost, but can save money in the long run by getting the balance right in this early stage.

Prototyping tools and technologies

The tools and technologies you use also affect costs. Advanced tools like high-resolution 3D printers or precision CNC machines are more expensive than basic tools. Depending on the complexity of your product, there might be no way around having to resort to more advanced prototyping tools, but we advise always doing extensive research on manufacturers and getting several quotes to find which makes most financial sense for you.

Labor and expertise costs

When asking the question how much does prototyping cost, labor is an often overlooked factor. Hiring skilled workers to design and build your prototype can add up. You may need engineers, designers, and technicians, especially for complex projects.

One example of a Kickstarter campaign that required highly skilled construction was Polycade, a modular and customizable arcade machine that needed skilled labor to build. Investment in professional expertise was crucial for their success — and it should be utilized for your prototype if necessary.

Geographic location impact on prototype expenses

Where you make your prototype can also influence costs. Different regions have different labor rates, material costs, and availability of services. Prototyping in countries with lower labor costs can be cheaper but might come with trade-offs in quality and communication.

Common prototyping methods and their associated costs

Now that we know what factors influence cost, we can go over the common prototyping methods being employed by modern manufacturers. Having an understanding of their construction methods can help make more informed decisions when it comes to how you want your product to be built, and how much you’re willing to pay for it.

3D Printing: Cost breakdown and considerations

3D printing is popular because it’s flexible and relatively low cost. It’s ideal for quick prototyping and small-scale models, and can have minimal post-processing which helps to reduce the price. Examples of these 3D-printed prototypes include plastic products with few non-moving parts, like cases, toys, or containers.

Costs for 3D printing can range from $100 to $10,000 depending on the complexity, size, and material of the prototype. Costs can significantly increase for prototypes larger than 12 inches in any direction due to limitations in certain 3D printers. Requesting that the manufacturer use specialty materials with this printing method will also impact how much your prototyping costs.

CNC machining: When to use and cost factors

CNC machining is good for making precise and durable prototypes from metal or hard plastics. It’s best utilized for functional prototypes that need to withstand rigorous testing.

Important factors that will affect the cost of CNC-machined parts include things like materials, design, yield, and precision machining time. Costs can start from $500 and go up to $20,000 based on the complexity of the product and materials required. For example, metal materials are usually more expensive than other alternatives like plastic, and are subject to price fluctuation in the market.

Injection molding: Costs for prototyping vs. production

Injection molding is cost-effective for mass production but can be expensive for prototyping because of mold creation costs, which can range from $1,000 to $30,000. It is an effective production method for large batches because it can produce a large number of parts quickly and consistently, albeit with a higher setup cost than other methods. It’s most suitable for products that need detailed and high-quality finishes, but may not be the most cost-effective for prototyping simpler products.

High-tech device prototyping: Managing complex costs

Prototyping high-tech devices like electronics involves extra costs for components, circuit design, and software integration. These projects can cost anywhere from $5,000 to over $100,000 depending on the complexity and required functionality.

Steps and costs to develop a prototype

Whether you’re prototyping a simple board game or something as complex as a solar-powered beer dispenser, each product requires similar processes for development and allocating costs. Let’s look at the key steps you’ll likely go through on the way to creating your first prototype.

1. Conceptualization and design

The first stage involves brainstorming, sketching, and designing your prototype. Costs at this stage typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the design and whether or not you use professional design services. Risks that can be identified at this stage include:

• Potential physical size constraints of the device
• Possible pain points in the user experience
• What can go wrong and what the best solutions to fix those problems might be

Once you have spent ample time on conceptualization and design, you can move on to selection of materials and processes.

2. Selection of materials and processes

Choosing the right materials and processes is crucial because it will directly impact how well the prototype functions. This step includes finding materials based on factors like tensile strength, flexibility, thermal conductivity and weight, and deciding on the best production method to execute on all of these variables. Costs can vary widely based on material quality and availability, but choosing materials that are the closest match to the intended final product should be the priority in this stage.

3. Building the prototype

Making the prototype typically involves three important steps.

1. 3D CAD design: If you aren’t able to generate professional 3D CAD renders, we advise seeking out a reputable service online. Get multiple quotes before settling on a service, because prices will vary considerably between design firms.
2. Sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA): To protect your intellectual property, we recommend having the design firm sign a NDA. This is meant to prevent designers from disclosing your ideas to anyone under all circumstances, which could be worth the investment depending on the complexity of the product.
3. Find a prototype developer: Once you have your design files ready, you can start working with your prototype developer. Which service you use depends largely on the complexity of your product, so if you have something simple it’s okay to use small businesses like handymen, carpenters, CNC machinists, etc. And like with the designers, it’s useful to have the developer sign an NDA.

This whole process can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $30,000, depending on chosen method, complexity, and legal fees.

4. Testing and refinement

After making the prototype, it’s important to test it and make improvements. This can involve multiple versions, with costs adding up each time. Testing and refinement with the prototype developer can add another $1,000 to $10,000 to the total cost.

5. Iterative development cycles

Prototyping often involves several versions to get the desired result. Each version adds costs for materials, labor, and testing, which should be included in the overall budget. It’s also important to note that it’s okay to test for the functionality of core features early on, but don’t forget to keep an open mind for further iterations down the road of the crowdfunding process.

Accurate cost estimation process for prototypes

Estimating the cost for a prototype is never a simple task, but it’s crucial information to know when budgeting for your crowdfunding journey. Thankfully, the professionals who you’ll be working with to build your prototype are experts at calculating these estimates for you. Of the many manufacturing considerations there are in crowdfunding, relying on them for the most accurate cost estimations is key among them.

Let’s look at how they generate accurate estimates on how much prototyping will cost for you.

• Collaboration among engineers and designers: Accurate cost estimation needs close teamwork between engineers and designers to make sure all parts of the prototype are considered. This helps in finding cost-saving measures early.
• Calculation of material and labor costs: Detailed calculation of material and labor costs is key for an accurate budget. This involves pricing all materials and estimating the time needed for each stage of the prototyping process.
• Evaluation of potential risks and unexpected costs: It’s important for developers to evaluate potential risks and unexpected costs, such as material shortages or design changes, which can affect the budget. Adding a contingency fund to the budget can help manage these risks.
• Estimation of profits: This is commonly included in the final calculation of your estimate from prototype developers.

Once you’re armed with the prototyping cost estimation, you’ll have a very clear idea of how much it will cost to prototype your product. With this estimate in mind, you can then approach the various strategies for reducing your prototyping costs.

Strategies for reducing prototyping costs

Finding ways to save money on your prototyping costs is an essential step for any creator. If there are options to do things cheaper without sacrificing too much on the finished prototype, it can go a long way in saving you money throughout your crowdfunding journey. Here are a number of avenues you can explore to make prototyping more cost-effective for you.

Using cost-effective materials without compromising quality

Selecting cost-effective materials that do not compromise the quality of the prototype can significantly reduce expenses — for example, using PLA for 3D printing instead of more expensive resins. Less expensive materials can also be used for just the first model, as long as you know you’ll be going through multiple development cycles. If your product is designed to be metal, you can use plastic for the first version to cut down on cost and time.

Leveraging in-house resources and expertise

Using in-house resources and expertise can drastically cut down on outsourcing costs. If you have access to necessary components that are off-the-shelf, you can try utilizing them to make your first prototype. Similarly, if you can get a product that has a similar build, you can try repurposing it through customization instead of building from scratch. All of these are valid options for making an early version of your crowdfunding prototype, and is a viable option for board games that can save you money.

Adopting an iterative design process

An iterative design process, where prototypes are refined in small, incremental steps, can help manage costs by identifying issues early while avoiding expensive mistakes later. On top of using this kind of prototyping process, you can start with smaller, scaled-down models if your real-size product is on the larger size. Starting out with smaller versions can keep costs down as you iterate through early versions and troubleshoot any problems you find.

Outsourcing parts of the process to specialized firms

Outsourcing specific parts of the prototyping process to specialized firms can be more cost-effective than handling everything in-house, especially for tasks requiring specialized skills or equipment.

Calculating your prototype costs

Figuring out the costs for your prototype doesn’t have to be a guessing game. There are several methods you can use to get a solid estimate before you start reaching out to professional developers. This early insight can be invaluable as you begin budgeting for your project.

Let’s explore some practical ways to get a handle on your potential prototyping expenses. These approaches will help you build a realistic budget, ensuring you’re well-prepared when it’s time to bring your idea to life.

Research and online resources

The internet is a treasure trove of information for aspiring innovators. Many websites offer calculators and tools designed to give you a ballpark figure for prototyping costs. These resources typically factor in variables like prototype type, materials, and manufacturing processes to generate an estimate.

While these online tools aren’t perfect, they can provide a useful starting point. They’ll give you a general idea of what to expect, helping you avoid sticker shock when you start gathering professional quotes.

Market intelligence

One of the most effective ways to gauge potential costs is by looking at similar products in the market. Dive into case studies, industry reports, and articles that detail the prototyping journey of products comparable to yours. This research can uncover valuable insights about expenses, timelines, and potential challenges.

By examining the paths others have taken, you’ll gain a clearer picture of what lies ahead. This knowledge will prove invaluable as you plan your own prototyping journey.

DIY cost breakdown

Sometimes, the best approach is to roll up your sleeves and create your own cost estimation. Start by listing all potential expenses associated with your project. This might include materials, labor, testing, refinement, and any specialized services you might need.

This method allows you to tailor the estimate to your specific project needs. As you gather more information and refine your plans, you can easily adjust your projections. This hands-on approach gives you a deeper understanding of where your money will be going throughout the prototyping process.

By leveraging these methods, you’ll be well-equipped to create a realistic budget for your prototyping project. This preparation will serve you well as you move forward, turning your innovative ideas into tangible reality.

Prototype development timelines and costs across industries

In addition to knowing about costs, it’s also important to understand prototype development timelines. There are a number of factors that affect development time, including what type of product you have and the method required to get it made. Let’s start by looking at timelines and costs associated with 3D printing for prototypes.

3D-Printed mockup prototype

A 3D-printed mockup prototype is relatively simple and quick to produce. It usually takes one to four weeks to develop and costs between $500 and $5,000. This type of prototype is ideal for visualizing and testing the form and fit of the product design before moving to more expensive manufacturing methods. This is one of the more reliably quick ways to prototype a product.

Electronics prototype

Creating an electronics prototype is a high-complexity endeavor. The process takes about four to twelve weeks and may cost anywhere between $10,000 and $50,000. The time frame usually includes multiple steps, like designing the circuit, fabricating the PCB, assembling components, and multiple rounds of testing to ensure functionality and reliability.

Mechanical prototype

Developing a mechanical prototype involves moderate complexity. This class of prototype typically takes about four to eight weeks to complete, with costs ranging from $3,000 to $30,000. The timeline includes designing parts, fabricating them using techniques like CNC machining or injection molding, and assembling the prototype for testing and refinement.

Fabric prototype

Fabric prototypes, used commonly in the fashion and textile industries, fall under low to moderate complexity. They take about two to four weeks to create and cost between $500 and $5,000. The process usually involves different steps like pattern making, cutting, sewing, and initial fitting tests to refine the design.

Final thoughts: Balancing costs and quality in prototyping

Prototyping is a key step in product development that needs careful planning and budgeting. By understanding the costs involved and exploring ways to manage these expenses, you can create a high-quality prototype without overspending. Balancing cost and quality is key to successful prototyping and, ultimately, a successful product launch.

If you’re ready to prototype your product, but still aren’t confident in answering the question of how much prototyping costs, LaunchBoom is here to help. Just answer a few quick questions so we can connect you with the right expert on our team.

How much does prototyping cost: Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to prototype something?

Prototyping costs can range from $100 for the simplest models to over $30,000 for complex, high-tech devices. The cost depends mostly on the materials, manufacturing processes, and the complexity of the prototype.

Is prototyping expensive?

Prototyping can be expensive, but it is a necessary investment to validate your product idea and identify potential issues early. Costs should be managed with careful planning and cost-saving strategies to avoid any crowdfunding financial mistakes.

What is the cheapest way to prototype?

The cheapest way to prototype is using low-cost materials and simple manufacturing methods like 3D printing with PLA. Additionally, leveraging in-house resources and expertise can help reduce costs.

How much does a 3D-printed prototype cost?

A 3D-printed prototype can cost between $100 and $10,000, depending on the size, complexity, and material used. It’s a cost-effective method for rapid prototyping and small-scale models.

How many prototypes are typically needed before final production?

The number of prototypes needed varies, but typically, multiple iterations are required to refine the design and functionality. On average, three to five prototypes are common before final production.