AnkerMake M5 Review: Is This the 3D Printer That Finally Bridges Speed and Quality?
The AnkerMake M5 arrived with a promise – to revolutionize desktop 3D printing by drastically increasing speed without compromising print quality. In a market saturated with budget-friendly options and prosumer-grade behemoths, the M5 aims for the sweet spot: accessible performance for both hobbyists and small businesses. But does it deliver on that ambitious claim? After weeks of rigorous testing, pushing its limits with various filaments and intricate designs, we’re ready to share our findings.
Right out of the box, the M5 impresses with its sturdy construction and clean design. The aluminum alloy frame feels rock-solid, minimizing vibrations even at its advertised ludicrous speeds. Setting it up is remarkably simple, aided by a well-designed companion app that streamlines the initial calibration and Wi-Fi connection process. The integrated camera is a standout feature, allowing for remote monitoring and time-lapse creation, adding a professional touch often absent in this price range.
Performance is where the M5 truly shines. AnkerMake’s claim of 5x faster printing is not just marketing hype. While achieving those speeds requires careful parameter tuning and simpler models, even at conservative settings, the M5 significantly reduces print times compared to traditional Cartesian printers. The print quality remains consistently good, producing detailed parts with smooth surfaces, though intricate overhangs at higher speeds can exhibit slight imperfections. The direct drive extruder handles a variety of filaments with ease, from PLA to PETG, though we experienced occasional stringing with flexible TPU which required more tuning than other filaments.
However, the M5 isn’t without its quirks. The included slicer software, while functional, feels somewhat basic compared to more mature options like PrusaSlicer or Cura. While AnkerMake has promised ongoing improvements, experienced users may prefer exporting G-code from their preferred slicer. Furthermore, the build volume, while adequate for most projects, might feel restrictive for users accustomed to larger printers. Also, note that the auto-leveling feature sometimes struggled to compensate for minor bed inconsistencies, requiring manual adjustments.
The M5 offers a compelling value proposition. It bridges the gap between entry-level affordability and professional-grade performance. While the price tag is higher than many budget printers, the speed, ease of use, and advanced features justify the investment, especially for users who value time and a streamlined workflow. For individuals with limited space, the smaller footprint is also advantageous.
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AnkerMake M5 Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 92%
- Design: 91%
- Performance: 92%
- Quality: 91%
- Popularity: 90%
Top Pros
- ✅ The AnkerMake M5 significantly reduces print times without major quality sacrifices.
- ✅ Its rigid frame minimizes vibrations, even at the fastest printing speeds.
- ✅ The integrated camera facilitates remote monitoring and time-lapse recording.
Key Cons
- ❌ The included slicer software lacks the advanced features of established alternatives.
- ❌ The build volume might feel restrictive for users accustomed to larger printers.
- ❌ The auto-leveling feature sometimes struggles, demanding manual adjustments for accuracy.
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