The BEST 3d Printer That I Won't Use! - Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro 3D Printer Review

Introduction

The Flash Forge 5M Pro has emerged as a significant contender in the rapidly evolving landscape of 3D printing, particularly within the realm of core-XY, enclosed machines. Designed to compete with similar models that have gained popularity following innovations in the industry, this printer aims to offer a distinct user experience, diverging in its approach to the integration and management of hardware and software capabilities.

Design and Build Quality

The 5M Pro features a design that combines aesthetics with functionality, sporting semi-transparent, smoked panels and an integrated touchscreen display. Its construction is reinforced by a steel frame encased within injection-molded plastic panels, contributing to its durability and stability at high speeds. Its ability to handle speeds up to 600 mm/s with accelerations of 20,000 mm/s², while maintaining operational integrity, is a testament to the robustness of its build.

Air Filtration System

One of the noteworthy features of the 5M Pro is its air filtration system, which incorporates HEPA and activated carbon filters to mitigate the emission of particles from heated filaments into the environment. This system caters to health and safety considerations by significantly reducing odors and potentially harmful emissions during printing processes, an essential feature for those printing with materials such as ABS or ASA.

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process of the 5M Pro is notably straightforward, requiring minimal assembly and offering a fully automated routine for calibration and bed leveling. This approach reduces the initial learning curve and potential setup hurdles, making it accessible to users with varying levels of experience. Additionally, the printer automates processes such as filament loading and the adjustment of Z-offset, further simplifying the user experience.

Software and Connectivity

The 5M Pro is accompanied by software solutions including FlashPrint and Orca slicer, catering to different user proficiency levels. While FlashPrint focuses on ease of use and quick setup, Orca slicer offers more advanced features for users seeking greater control over their printing projects. However, the printer's compatibility with external software is limited, potentially restricting users to FlashForge's ecosystem for certain functionalities.

Print Quality and Performance

In testing, the 5M Pro produces high-quality prints across a variety of materials with adjustments for optimal performance. The included flexible magnetic PEI bed surface and its innovative approach to filament loading and nozzle replacement enhance the overall printing experience. However, the proprietary system for nozzle replacement can introduce additional costs for users seeking to experiment with different nozzle sizes.

User Experience Constraints

Despite its many strengths, the Flash Forge 5M Pro introduces some limitations in terms of user customization and modification potential. The printer's firmware and software ecosystem are designed with certain restrictions, limiting access to advanced settings, customizations, and third-party modifications. This design philosophy may not align with all users, especially those who prefer greater control over their printing environment and the ability to experiment with hardware and firmware modifications.

Conclusion

Overall, the Flash Forge Adventurer 5M Pro stands out for its ease of use, robust design, and safety features. However, its approach to software and user experience may not appeal to every user, particularly those seeking deeper customization or who wish to engage more thoroughly with the 3D printing process beyond the constraints of a single manufacturer's ecosystem. For users prioritizing a plug-and-play experience with minimal setup and maintenance, the 5M Pro presents a compelling option. Nonetheless, those valuing flexibility and the ability to modify and upgrade their printers may find its limitations a critical consideration in their decision-making process.