Is the Flashforge Adventurer 3 still worth it in 2023?

Overview of the Adventurer 3: A Printer for Beginners

The Adventurer 3, a popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts, has recently been re-evaluated to see how it stands up as a beginner-friendly option in today's evolving 3D printing landscape. Initial reports indicate it has been used consistently and with enjoyment, underlining its reliability and user-friendly nature.

Key Updates and Features

In 2022, the Adventurer 3 received new firmware and slicing software updates, suggesting improvements in usability and performance since its initial release. These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience, keeping it a viable option for those new to 3D printing.

Performance and Usability

The 3D printer, designed with beginners in mind, offers straightforward operation and maintenance. The importance of a clean print surface is highlighted, with alcohol cleaning recommended for optimal adhesion. Although additional adhesives like glue sticks or spray might not be necessary due to the effective print bed design, it's noted that removing prints can be challenging due to the strong adhesion.

Slicing software, specifically Flash Print, is used to prepare models for printing, illustrating a user-friendly interface suitable for newcomers. Despite being equipped to handle only smaller filament spools, solutions such as an external spool holder have been improvised to accommodate standard 1kg spools, indicating a minor limitation in its design.

Print Quality and Noise Level

Regarding print quality, the device exhibits some issues such as heat creep and layer shifts, which could impact the output quality, especially on finer details. While these problems may not deter beginners, more experienced users might find them limiting. The noise level, though not excessive, is also noteworthy, suggesting that the printer might not be ideal for very quiet environments.

Price Point and Target Audience

The Adventurer 3 is mentioned as being attractively priced for the features it offers, including internet connectivity that stands out against competitors in its price range. This makes the printer an appealing option for beginners who seek a balance between functionality and ease of use without delving too deeply into the technical aspects of 3D printing.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

While the Adventurer 3 is not without its flaws, it holds a position as a solid entry-level printer, especially for those new to the hobby. Users are encouraged to consider their progression in the hobby, as more advanced and customizable options might be preferred as they gain experience. Additionally, compatibility with other slicer software through provided profiles opens up versatility for users who wish to explore beyond the default options.

The review concludes by suggesting the Adventurer 3 as a starting point in 3D printing, with the recommendation to explore more advanced printers as skills and interests develop. Overall, the Adventurer 3 is seen as a worthy consideration for those embarking on their 3D printing journey.