A 3D configurator has become an essential sales tool for e-commerce retailers selling customisable products or products with multiple variants. But the question every prospect asks on the first call is the same: how much does it cost?
Honest answer: it depends. But rather than leaving you with that frustrating response, here is the full breakdown of cost components, price ranges by product type, and what justifies the variations.
The 3 cost components of a 3D configurator
1. 3D modelling
This is generally the largest cost component. It involves creating the 3D model(s) of your product, with its materials, textures and variants. The time required depends on the geometric complexity of the product and the number of materials to model.
If you already have 3D files (GLTF, FBX, CAD files), this component can be reduced by 30 to 60%. If you're starting from photos or technical drawings, 3DVue creates the models from scratch.
2. Integration on your website
The 3DVue configurator is a Web Component — an HTML tag you place on your product page. Integration is straightforward and compatible with Shopify, WooCommerce, PrestaShop and WordPress. Allow 2 to 4 hours of development if you have a developer, or 3DVue can handle it.
3. Hosting and maintenance
The configurator runs on 3DVue's servers. A monthly or annual subscription covers hosting, platform updates and support. This recurring cost is communicated before any project begins.
💡 Key point: the one-off cost (modelling + integration) is a one-time investment. The subscription is the only recurring cost — there are no commissions on your sales.
The breakdown of prices
A 3D configurator is built element by element. Here are the unit rates — complexity is the main variable: a mug and a padel court are not comparable.
| Element | Indicative rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 3D model | €50 – €200 | Per object. Varies with geometry: a mug vs. a modular armchair require very different amounts of work. |
| PBR texture | ~€30 | Per texture (albedo, roughness, normal…). A product with 20 colourways = 20 textures. |
| Lighting, shadows & scene setup | €500 | One-off per project. Covers lighting, shadows and the configurator background colour. |
| SVG production file template | €100 | For projects with personalisation (textile, promotional items). Creation of the reference production template. |
| Integration on your website | Included or on quote | The Web Component integrates in a few lines of HTML. Compatible with Shopify, WooCommerce, PrestaShop, WordPress. |
Monthly subscription
Once the configurator is delivered, a monthly subscription covers hosting on 3DVue's servers, platform updates and support. Its amount depends on three factors:
- The number of models hosted on the platform
- The connection volume (traffic on your configurator pages)
- The asset weight (3D models + textures) on the server
The subscription ranges from €50/month for a simple project (1 model, low traffic) to €500/month for a large catalogue with high connection volumes.
What affects the price
Number of products
A configurator for a single product is cheaper than a full catalogue. 3DVue often works in batches — modelling 5 chairs from the same range costs less than 5 independent projects.
Geometric complexity
A product with complex curves, stitching or fine details requires more modelling work than an object with simple geometric shapes. A modular sofa with 12 interchangeable elements costs more than a 3-piece chair.
Number of materials and variants
Each material (fabric, wood, metal, leather) requires its own PBR textures. 3 colourways = a few hours. 40 fabric references = several days of work. This is the factor that varies the price most for wide ranges.
Production file generation
If your configurator needs to generate a production file (PDF or SVG) for engraving, printing or embroidery, this is a specific development that adds €1,000 to €2,000 to the project.
The ROI: concrete results
A 3D configurator is not a cost — it's an investment. Here are the measured effects at our clients:
- 20–40% reduction in returns — the customer sees exactly what they're buying before ordering
- 15–30% increase in average order value — personalisation creates attachment and justifies a higher price
- Fewer support queries — "does this fabric come in blue?" disappears when customers can see it in real time
- Competitive differentiation — very few e-commerce retailers offer a genuine interactive 3D experience
📊 Concrete example: a furniture e-commerce retailer with 200 orders/month and 15% returns. By reducing returns by 25%, they save 30 returns/month. At €30 average cost per return (logistics + customer service), that's €900/month saved — meaning ROI in 4–6 months on a €3,500 project.
Frequently asked questions
What is the price of a 3D configurator?
The price of a 3D configurator varies depending on product complexity and the number of variants. Budget between €1,500 and €8,000 for a complete project (modelling + integration). A simple product with 2–3 materials starts around €1,500; a textile configurator with automatic production file generation can reach €6,000–8,000.
What is the ROI of a 3D configurator?
E-commerce retailers deploying a 3D configurator typically see a 20–40% reduction in returns and a 15–30% increase in average order value. The investment is usually recouped within 6 to 18 months depending on order volume.
Do I need 3D files to get started?
No. 3DVue can create 3D models from photos (front, side, top, bottom) or technical drawings. You don't need existing 3D files to start a project.
Are there ongoing costs after delivery?
Yes, there is typically a monthly or annual subscription covering hosting, platform updates and support. At 3DVue, these fees are fully transparent and communicated before the project starts.
How to budget your project properly?
The best way to get an accurate price is to describe your product and needs in 15 minutes. Thibaut gets back to you within 24 hours with a detailed estimate — no commitment required.
Describe your product, variants and platform. We'll reply within 24 hours with an accurate estimate.