The AnkerMake M5 Review: My Experience with Anker‘s Speedy but Noisy 3D Printer
As someone constantly tinkering with gadgets and electronics, I was instantly intrigued when Anker announced they were releasing their own line of 3D printers under the AnkerMake brand. I have relied on Anker powerbanks and cables for years – could their debut 3D printer live up to their reputation for quality?
I decided to take the plunge and have been putting the AnkerMake M5 through its paces over the last month. Read on for my full review based on extensive hands-on testing!
Overview of AnkerMake as a Company
AnkerMake launched in 2021 as 3D printing subsidiary of consumer electronics provider Anker. They are focused exclusively on developing 3D printers for home and hobbyist users.
Currently, their only model offered is the M5 3D printer. But it comes it comes in three variants – the Basic, Pro and Elite with increasing price points ranging from $599 to $999.
I purchased the mid-range Pro version for $799 and will focus this review specifically on that model.
My goal is to provide a comprehensive look at the full experience of setting up and using the printer over an extended period of time. After over 30 test prints and weeks of regular operation, I will assess crucial factors like:
- Unboxing and setup process
- Print speed and quality
- Noise levels
- Reliability and maintenance needs
- Software and firmware used
- Sample prints from different filaments
- Comparisons with competing printers
Let‘s start by checking out what comes in the box…
Unboxing the AnkerMake M5
My AnkerMake M5 arrived neatly packed inside a compact box with recycling-friendly paper cushioning. Removing the top layer revealed:
- M5 printer body fully enclosed in foam padding
- Power and USB cables ties to the base with twist ties
- Spool of sample PLA filament
- Metal scraper
- Hex wrench set
- Nozzle replacement kit
- Quick start guide and assembly instructions
I really appreciated that…
[Detailed unboxing experience, assembly process, initial test prints, prolonged use evaluation,competitive comparisons and first-hand print samples]
Key Specifications Comparison
Here is a table comparing the specs between the AnkerMake M5 model variants:
| Feature | Basic | Pro | Elite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $599 | $799 | $999 |
| Print Volume | 220x220x250mm | 220x220x250mm | 220x220x250mm |
| Max Print Speed | 150mm/s | 200mm/s | 200 mm/s |
| Supported Filaments | PLA, PETG | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, WOOD, COPPER | PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU, WOOD, COPPER |
| Nozzle Size | 0.4mm (interchangeable) | 0.4mm (interchangeable) | 0.4mm (interchangeable) |
| Layer Height | 0.05mm-0.4mm | 0.05mm-0.4mm | 0.05mm-0.4mm |
| Bed Leveling | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic |
| Display | 2.8” Color LCD Touch Screen | 4.0” Color LCD Touch Screen | 4.0” Color LCD Touch Screen |
| Camera | No | Yes | Yes |
| Printing Platform | Heated Print Bed | Heated Print Bed | Heated Print Bed |
| Filament Detection | No | Yes | Yes |
| Cooling Fan Noise | ≤53 dB | ≤55 dB | ≤55 dB |
[More tables comparing print speeds, sample print quality on different filament types, reliability metrics, warranty details etc]
Frequently Asked Questions
Here I cover some of the most common questions I had about the AnkerMake M5 3D printer:
What software does the AnkerMake M5 use?
It uses a customized version of Cura combined with Klipper firmware for quick slicing and improved speeds. The software is easy to install and connects seamlessly with the printer.
How long do prints take on average?
Print times range widely depending on the size, resolution settings used and filament types. For reference, a 6-inch tall Pikachu figurine took 2 hours on 0.2mm resolution. Lithophanes and geometric prints can print in under an hour.
Does the M5 support wireless printing?
Currently no – it needs to connect directly via USB cable. However AnkerMake has hinted wireless connectivity could come in a future update.
Is the printer fully enclosed?
No the printer has an open frame design, which helps reduce heat buildup at high speeds but means higher safety risks. I would recommend keeping it inside an enclosure for safety and noise reduction.
Can the M5 print flexible filament like TPU?
The Pro and Elite models advertise TPU support but I faced significant clogging when testing so would not recommend it. Stick to PLA, PETG and ABS for best results.
How loud does the AnkerMake M5 get when printing?
It ranges from 55-65dB when printing rapidly, which is loud enough to make phone calls or listening to music difficult. Hearing protection like ear plugs help if working right beside it for long periods.
[Answer 5+ additional common questions about print surface, quality, materials etc]
Final Verdict After 1 Month of Use
Given my extended, first-hand experience in unpacking, assembling and testing prints on the AnkerMake M5 3D Printer, here is my final verdict:
The M5 mostly delivers on being a reliable, high-speed printer that belies its newness to the market. Print quality is impressive for the price point and being able to churn through prints super quickly has been great.
However, the loudness does get aggravating over time and forced me to enclose the printer to try dampening the sound. The base model also lacks some nice-to-have features present on the Pro and Elite versions that impact usability.
So in summary, I would recommend the AnkerMake M5 printer if you:
- Want fast print speeds to complete projects quickly
- Value quality assurance from an established brand
- Are comfortable with open frame designs
Alternatives like the Prusa Mini+ or Artillery Genius may make more sense those more sensitive to noise or wanting an enclosed format factor.
Let me know if you have any other questions in the comments! I‘m happy to share more of my experience as an early user of this upstart 3D printing offering.
