The Flashforge Adventurer 3 Review

Design and Build Quality

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 makes a statement with its fully enclosed design, a departure from the company's earlier models which were more open and embraced a DIY aesthetic. Flashforge, a brand with a longstanding presence in the hobbyist 3D printing market, showcases their evolution with a machine that combines aesthetic appeal with practical features. The printer's compact frame encapsulates a 150x150x150 mm print volume, modest yet sufficient for various printing tasks. Enclosure aside, the Adventurer 3's design incorporates a removable heated bed with a Gera light plate, tailored for easy print removal and bed cleaning.

Features and Functionality

The Adventurer 3 is not just about looks; it's packed with functionality aimed at providing a convenient and user-friendly printing experience. It boasts a color touchscreen for easy operation, Wi-Fi connectivity complete with a webcam for remote print monitoring, filament outage detection for uninterrupted printing, and quick-swap hot ends for easy maintenance. These features are geared towards both beginners and experienced users who value time-saving conveniences in their 3D printing workflow.

Printing Performance

Initial impressions of the Adventurer 3's printing capabilities are positive, with the printer producing impressive results on default settings using the sample filament provided. The machine demonstrates a commendable level of detail and accuracy in its prints, navigating complex test objects with finesse. However, challenges arise with third-party filaments, leading to inconsistent results that suggest the machine is finely tuned for Flashforge’s own filament formulations. The Adventurer 3 particularly excels with ABS material, benefiting from the heated bed and enclosed environment, which contribute to its ability to handle temperature-sensitive materials better than many competitors.

Software and Connectivity

Flashprint, the proprietary slicing software for Flashforge printers, complements the Adventurer 3, unlocking advanced settings for those who wish to tweak their print parameters. While some may find the machine's Wi-Fi connectivity and IP address system to be somewhat cumbersome due to its dynamic nature, these are minor inconveniences relative to the printer's overall performance. Additionally, the printer’s operation is notably quiet, suitable for classroom or office settings, although the fan is identified as the primary noise source during printing.

Final Thoughts

The Flashforge Adventurer 3 presents a mixed but largely positive picture. Its design, feature set, and performance align it with users seeking a plug-and-play experience, although it is not without its flaws. The quick-swap hot end system is a highlight, offering convenience at a premium, but the machine's proprietary nature and variable performance with non-Flashforge filament are notable limitations. Despite this, the Adventurer 3 remains a compelling option for those in the market for an enclosed, feature-rich 3D printer, assuming one is willing to work within its ecosystem and is mindful of its peculiarities with third-party materials.