Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro, full review

My Tech Fun
13 Jan 202429:01

TLDRThe Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer is reviewed in this video, highlighting its fully enclosed design, fast printing capabilities, and competitive price point of approximately $550. The printer has a build volume of 220mm in XY and Z, with a maximum nozzle temperature of 280°C and heated bed up to 110°C. A standout feature is the one-click fast changing nozzle, which simplifies maintenance. The printer also includes a direct drive extruder, auto shutdown function, and an air filtration system. However, the spool holder's placement on the back is criticized, and the software requires improvement for better user control and connectivity. Despite these issues, the printer's performance is praised for its fast and high-quality prints, especially after addressing the bed adhesion and leveling. The review concludes that the printer has great potential but needs software enhancements to reach its full capability.

Takeaways

  • 💰 The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer is priced at approximately $550, which is considered a good price for its specifications.
  • 🏗️ The printer is fully enclosed and uses a firmware similar to Creality's Clipper, known for its fast processing.
  • 🔥 The maximum nozzle temperature is 280°C, suitable for most technical filaments, and the bed temperature can reach up to 110°C.
  • 🛠️ A standout feature is the quick-change nozzle that requires no tools, making it easy to replace.
  • 🔄 The printer has a direct drive extruder with an inbuilt filament sensor and a built-in air circulation filtration system.
  • 📦 The package includes a fully assembled printer, sample filament, tools, and a USB drive with additional resources.
  • 🔩 The spool holder is mounted on the backside, which is a design choice the reviewer is not fond of.
  • 🌐 Wi-Fi connectivity is supported, but it requires using FlashForge's FlashPrint software, which the reviewer suggests could use some development.
  • 🛌 The printer has an auto bed leveling probe, but it lacks a load sensor like on the Creality Ender 4.
  • 📈 The reviewer encountered issues with bed adhesion when printing with PLA at 50°C, but resolved it by increasing the bed temperature to 65°C.
  • 📊 The printer performed well in tests, with high-quality prints and no stringing or warping observed, even at fast print speeds.

Q & A

  • What is the price of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer?

    -The price of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer is approximately $550, but it can vary depending on the country.

  • What are the dimensions of the build volume for the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro?

    -The build volume of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro is 220 mm in the XY plane and Z direction.

  • What is the maximum temperature for the nozzle and the bed on the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro?

    -The maximum temperature for the nozzle is 280°C, and for the bed, it is 110°C.

  • What is the unique feature of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro that allows for fast nozzle changing?

    -The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro has a one-click nozzle changing feature that does not require any tools.

  • Does the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro come fully assembled out of the box?

    -The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro comes fully assembled out of the box, with the only assembly needed being the mounting of the spool holder.

  • What is included in the box with the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D printer?

    -In the box, you will find a fully assembled 3D printer, a spool holder, sample filament, tools, a USB drive, and a spare 0.6 mm nozzle.

  • What is the issue with the filament change method on the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro?

    -The filament change method on the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro leaves some material inside the nozzle and heat break, making it difficult to completely remove the old filament without leaving residue.

  • What software is recommended for use with the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro to enable Wi-Fi connectivity?

    -To use Wi-Fi connectivity with the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro, you need to use the Flash Print software.

  • What is the main concern regarding the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro's software?

    -The main concern is that the software requires improvement in several areas, including firmware, slicer, and website interface, with issues such as auto power off not working, lack of access control, and problems with leveling during network printing.

  • What is the reviewer's opinion on the printer's noise level when the top cover is closed?

    -The reviewer finds the printer to be the quietest Corxy-style 3D printer they have tested when the top cover is closed.

  • How does the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro perform when printing with ABS filament?

    -The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro performs well when printing with ABS filament, producing straight and warp-free parts, with the internal air filtration system effectively controlling the smell of ABS during printing.

  • What is the reviewer's suggestion for FlashForge regarding the software issues?

    -The reviewer suggests that FlashForge should fix the software issues, and if not addressed promptly, consider replacing the software team or implementing a more user-friendly system like the Clipper interface.

Outlines

00:00

🤖 Unboxing and Introduction to the Adventurer 5m Pro CD Printer

The first paragraph introduces the Adventurer 5m Pro CD printer, highlighting its fully enclosed design, fast printing capabilities, and competitive price point of around $550. The printer's specifications are discussed, including its build volume of 220 mm in XY and Z directions, the use of a fast and proprietary firmware, and temperature ranges suitable for most technical filaments. A unique feature is the fast-changing nozzle, which requires no tools and is a first-time innovation for the user. The printer also includes a direct drive extruder, built-in circulation filtration, and an auto-shutdown function. The user expresses a minor concern with the spool holder placement and the reliance on Flash Print software for Wi-Fi connectivity. The packaging and contents of the box are also reviewed, including a USB drive, sample filament, and tools.

05:00

🔧 Assembly, Initial Setup, and First Print Experience

The second paragraph details the assembly process and first-time setup of the printer. The user mounts the spool holder, noting its maximal spool thickness and the path of the filament. The printer's physical features are described, such as the touchscreen slot for a USB drive, power button, and ventilation holes. The user also discusses the printer's initial calibration process, which includes input shaping and filament loading. The first print is attempted without glue on the bed, resulting in weak adhesion and a canceled print. The user then increases the bed temperature to 65° C for better PLA adhesion and cleans the bed with hot water and isopropyl alcohol. A successful test print is completed, showcasing the printer's fast speed and quality.

10:01

📏 Quality Analysis and Post-Print Considerations

The third paragraph focuses on the quality of the prints and post-print analysis. The user is pleased with the first layer and side surfaces of the prints, noting the absence of stringing and good overhang performance. The printer's clear view of the nozzle and fast printing speed are praised. The user also discusses the printer's ability to print with a higher bed temperature without the need for a glue stick. After printing, the user evaluates the removal of the purge line and the cooling process, suggesting improvements for the printer's standby mode and noise reduction. The user also explores the USB drive's contents and the Orca slicer software, noting the need for Wi-Fi connectivity to use Flash Print software.

15:04

🔄 Filament Change Method and Network Printing Test

The fourth paragraph covers the filament change process and a test of network printing capabilities. The user finds the filament change method to be unusual and less than ideal, as it leaves material inside the nozzle and heat break. The user then tests the printer's ability to print over a network, noting issues with the leveling process when initiating prints this way. After correcting the leveling settings, the user successfully prints a D6 dice. The user also discusses the printer's performance with ABS filament and the need for an enclosure and higher temperatures to prevent warping. The internal air filtration is commended for its effectiveness.

20:05

🛠️ Printing with ABS and Software Critiques

The fifth paragraph details the user's experience printing with ABS filament and critiques the printer's software. The user successfully prints with ABS, noting the importance of an enclosed environment and the printer's ability to maintain a high print quality without warping. The user expresses dissatisfaction with the software side of the printer, including the firmware, slicer, and website support. Issues such as the lack of auto power-off, problems with filament changing, and limited control over the printer through the Flash Print software are discussed. The user also mentions the absence of detailed information on the website regarding nozzle material and build plates.

25:05

🏁 Conclusion and Recommendations for Improvement

The final paragraph summarizes the user's overall experience with the printer and provides recommendations for improvement. The user appreciates the printer's performance when the leveling is enabled and praises the build quality, fast printing speed, and noise reduction features. However, the user reiterates concerns with the spool holder placement and software issues. The user suggests that the software could be significantly improved and expresses a desire for more transparency and information from Flash Forge. The user concludes that the printer has the potential to be great but requires fixes on the software side.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro

The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro is a 3D printer that is being reviewed in the video. It is noted for its full enclosure and fast printing capabilities, with a price point of approximately $550. The printer's specifications and performance are the central focus of the video, as the reviewer tests its various features and prints sample objects to evaluate its quality and functionality.

💡enclosure

The enclosure refers to the protective covering of the 3D printer, which is mentioned as being fully enclosed in the case of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro. This feature is important as it helps maintain a stable printing environment, reduces noise, and keeps the printer's internal temperature consistent, especially when printing with materials like ABS that require higher temperatures.

💡print volume

Print volume, or the build volume, is the physical space available for the 3D printer to create objects. In the context of the video, the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro has a print volume of 220 mm in the XY plane and the Z direction. This measurement is significant because it determines the size of the objects that the printer can create, with larger volumes allowing for more substantial or multiple smaller items to be printed at once.

💡filaments

Filaments are the materials used in 3D printing to create the physical objects. The video discusses the need for different filaments, such as technical filaments that may require higher printing temperatures. The maximum temperature for the printer is 280°C, which is suitable for most technical filaments, although the reviewer notes a slight limitation for some exotic filaments that might need temperatures closer to 300°C.

💡fast changing nozzle

The fast changing nozzle is a feature of the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro that allows for quick and easy replacement of the printer's nozzle without the need for tools. This is significant as it reduces downtime and makes the maintenance of the printer more user-friendly. The reviewer highlights this as an innovative solution that they particularly appreciated.

💡direct drive extruder

A direct drive extruder is a type of extrusion system found in 3D printers that directly drives the filament without the use of a gear system. The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro uses a direct drive extruder, which is noted for its efficiency and reliability in feeding the filament into the printer. This system can contribute to faster printing speeds and more consistent extrusion, enhancing the overall performance of the printer.

💡auto shutdown function

The auto shutdown function is a safety feature that automatically turns off the printer after a certain period of inactivity or upon completion of a print job. This feature is beneficial as it helps save energy, prolongs the life of the printer components, and ensures safety by preventing potential overheating or other issues when the printer is not in use.

💡slicer software

Slicer software is a type of computer program that converts 3D models into instructions (G-code) that the 3D printer can understand and use to create physical objects. In the video, the reviewer discusses the use of Orca slicer and Flashprint software, which are essential for preparing the print jobs and interfacing with the Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro. The software's capabilities and ease of use are critical aspects of the overall 3D printing experience.

💡bed adhesion

Bed adhesion refers to the ability of the 3D printed material to stick properly to the print bed, which is crucial for successful layering and the final quality of the printed object. The reviewer discusses the importance of adjusting bed temperature for optimal adhesion, particularly when printing with materials like PLA and ABS. Proper bed adhesion prevents issues such as warping or detachment of the print from the bed during the printing process.

💡Z offset

Z offset is a setting in 3D printing that adjusts the distance between the printer's nozzle and the print bed, influencing the first layer's quality and overall print accuracy. In the context of the video, the reviewer found it necessary to adjust the Z offset to achieve better first layer adhesion and avoid issues like ghosting or uneven layers. Correct Z offset is essential for high-quality prints and can be influenced by factors such as bed surface contamination or material type.

💡air circulation filtration

Air circulation filtration refers to the system in place to manage the air quality inside the 3D printer's enclosure, particularly when printing with materials that release fumes or particles. The Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro has built-in circulation filtration, which can be set to internal or external modes. This feature is important for user safety and comfort, as it helps to reduce exposure to potentially harmful fumes and maintain a cleaner environment, especially when printing with materials like ABS that can produce unpleasant odors.

Highlights

Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro is an enclosed CD printer with a price point of approximately $550.

The printer has a build volume of 220mm in XY and Z direction and uses a fast firmware, similar to Clipper.

The maximum temperature for the hotend is 280°C, suitable for most technical filaments, with a bed temperature max of 110°C.

A standout feature is the quick-change nozzle, which can be replaced with just one click and no tools needed.

The printer uses a direct drive extruder and has an inbuilt exhaust fan for input shaping.

There is a built-in air circulation filtration system that can be set up for internal or external use.

The auto shutdown function and auto bed leveling with a load sensor enhance the printer's user-friendliness.

The spool holder is positioned on the backside, which may not be ideal for all users.

The printer comes fully assembled, with only the spool holder needing to be mounted.

The package includes a USB drive with 250g of PLA filament, tools, and a spare nozzle.

The printer's core XY structure uses metallic rods and 6mm timing belts for precise movement.

The printer has a clear view of the nozzle, which is beneficial for monitoring the print process.

The printer's calibration process is automatic and takes approximately 9 minutes to complete.

The first layer adhesion can be improved with the correct bed temperature, eliminating the need for a glue stick.

The printer's speed is impressive, with a calibration cube printed in just 6 minutes.

The printer's internal circulation filtration system works well, keeping the ABS smell contained during printing.

The software side of the printer could use some improvements, particularly with the Wi-Fi connectivity and slicer options.

The filament change method is unique but may not be ideal for all users, as it leaves some material inside the nozzle.

Despite the software issues, the printer's print quality is fantastic, and it operates quietly when the top cover is closed.