FlashForge - Adventurer 3 - 3D Printer - Review - Chris's Basement

Overview

The FlashForge Adventurer 3 is a compact, fully enclosed 3D printer by the well-established Far East manufacturer, FlashForge. With a 150 mm cubic build volume and a variety of user-friendly features such as a heated bed with a removable steel sheet, removable extruder head, Bowden-style setup, filament run-out sensor, built-in camera, and web server capabilities, this printer presents a comprehensive package for enthusiasts and beginners alike. Originating from FlashForge's lineup from 2019, the Adventurer 3 has garnered attention for its design and functionality, demonstrating the manufacturer's understanding of the needs within the 3D printing community.

Design and Aesthetics

The FlashForge Adventurer 3 boasts a sleek design with see-through panels, housed in an all injection-molded enclosure. It features a front door with magnetic locks, contributing to its attractive appearance while maintaining safety, especially for younger users. The printer comes with a built-in filament cartridge holder, which, while enhancing aesthetics, limits the size of the filament spool that can be used without additional modifications. Regardless, the printer maintains compatibility with a broad range of filaments without necessitating proprietary cartridges. Its design complements most environments, fitting well in both professional and personal settings.

Usability Features

The Adventurer 3 integrates several practical features that aim to simplify the printing process. It has Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for wireless operations, and includes an Ethernet port for those preferring a wired connection. The printer supports auto-leveling and offers a variety of printing modes accessible via a user-friendly touchscreen interface. Onboard memory and cloud options provide flexibility in file management. The inclusion of a built-in camera for monitoring prints and a controllable enclosure fan for temperature management are thoughtful touches that enhance the overall user experience.

Performance and Print Quality

When it comes to performance, the Adventurer 3 is capable of delivering high-quality prints across different materials including PLA, ABS, and PETG, albeit with adjustments needed for optimal results in some cases. The heated bed and enclosed environment enable consistent printing with materials prone to warping. The machine's default slicer, FlashPrint, though custom-made for FlashForge printers, may require users to explore settings adjustments or alternative slicing software for certain projects. Through testing and modification of settings, users have found ways to achieve desired outcomes, demonstrating the printer's flexibility.

Software and Ecosystem

Although FlashForge provides its proprietary FlashPrint slicer intended for seamless integration with the Adventurer 3, some users may find challenges with customization and advanced settings. The printer's firmware and software ecosystem show promise but could benefit from further development to enhance compatibility and user control. FlashForge's active development and firmware updates indicate a commitment to improving user experience.

Conclusion

The FlashForge Adventurer 3 offers a balanced mix of design, functionality, and performance, making it a suitable choice for both new and experienced users within the 3D printing community. Its compact and enclosed design, along with a range of convenient features, ensure a comfortable and safe printing environment. While some aspects, particularly software and the necessity for adjustments in settings, may require a learning curve, the printer's capabilities and the support provided by FlashForge suggest a reliable tool for personal or educational projects. Future updates to the ecosystem could further increase its appeal to a broader audience.