AnkerMake M5C Review: A Budget-Friendly 3D Printer with High-End Features

In the rapidly evolving landscape of 3D printing, AnkerMake-a relatively fresh face in the market-delivers the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer. This machine strikes an impressive balance between affordability and advanced performance. With a competitive price tag of $399, the M5C distinguishes itself by offering the essential qualities often found in pricier models, making it an attractive option for both seasoned makers and those just starting their 3D printing journey. This review explores the specifics of the AnkerMake M5C, examining its capabilities, user experience, and overall value to provide you with comprehensive insights.

Diving Deeper into the AnkerMake M5C's Capabilities

Taking a closer look at what sets the M5C apart reveals a printer that is more than just budget-friendly; it is a testament to thoughtful design and user-centric innovation. In this section, we will dissect the unique aspects of the M5C's design and functionality, demonstrating how each feature enhances the printer's performance and usability, and why it stands as a potential game-changer in the budget 3D printer segment.

Sturdy Design

The AnkerMake M5C 3D printer is engineered with a focus on durability and reliability. The printer's foundation is a die-cast aluminum alloy base-a premium material processed through CNC machining, polishing, and spray painting. This construction not only lends the M5C a sleek appearance but also ensures longevity. The Z-Axis adds both style and substance to the machine. Crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and treated with an anodized surface finish, it contributes significantly to the unit's overall robustness.

High-Quality Prints

Quality is paramount in 3D printing, and the AnkerMake M5C does not disappoint. At its core is the PowerBoost™ 2.0 system, an advanced motion control upgrade equipped with a robust stepper motor, belt driveshaft, and an S-smoothing algorithm. This unique combination allows for a dramatic increase in printing speed and acceleration, reaching speeds of up to 500 mm/s without sacrificing print integrity.

In addition to speed, the AnkerMake M5C boasts remarkable precision. Its ultra-direct extruder system, featuring a compact yet powerful extrusion motor with a 21.6:1 ultra-large reduction ratio, enhances accuracy-crucial for high-speed printing. By accurately controlling flow, it can achieve a layer thickness of 0.1 mm with a 0.2 mm nozzle.

Overall, this blend of speed, precision, and quality places the M5C at the forefront of 3D printing technology, catering to the needs of those who demand the best in their creative endeavors.

49-Point Automatic Bed Leveling

The AnkerMake M5C enhances the user experience with its advanced 49-Point Automatic Bed Leveling. The primary benefit here is convenience; automatic leveling eliminates the need for frequent manual adjustments, a task that can be both time-consuming and challenging, especially for beginners.

With the M5C, manual tweaks are only necessary in exceptional cases, such as after major upgrades or changing the nozzle or PEI soft magnetic plate. This ease of use not only saves time but also reduces the likelihood of errors common with manual leveling.

One-Click Button

The M5C is equipped with a versatile One-Click Button, a feature designed for streamlined operation and efficiency-something notably absent in the original M5 model.

App-Based Control System

The AnkerMake M5C introduces a cutting-edge app-based control system, transforming how users interact with 3D printing. This system allows for remote control and monitoring of prints using the AnkerMake app on mobile devices and the AnkerMake slicer software on PCs, offering a level of convenience and flexibility previously unseen in traditional 3D printing setups.

Through the AnkerMake slicer, users gain the ability to remotely control their printer and monitor print progress directly from their computer. This ensures precise customization and convenience. The AnkerMake app complements this by providing remote control via Wi-Fi and a seamless Bluetooth connection, allowing users to manage their prints from anywhere.

Ease of Use

The AnkerMake M5C utilizes the AnkerMake app alongside the physical button on the printer to simplify the 3D printing process. The app allows users to customize their printing experience with ease, defining functions for single-click, double-click, and long-press actions. This level of customization means that key actions-like starting a print, re-printing, automatic bed leveling, homing, pausing, or stopping the printer-are all just a click away, making the entire workflow more intuitive and efficient.

Affordability

The AnkerMake M5C exemplifies affordability in the 3D printing world, standing out with its competitive price of just $399. Despite being budget-friendly, the M5C retains essential features and functionality, making it a remarkable choice for those seeking a capable 3D printer without a hefty investment.

AnkerMake M5C vs. AnkerMake M5 3D Printer: What's the Difference?

While the AnkerMake M5 has been a popular choice among 3D printing enthusiasts, the introduction of the M5C marks a significant evolution in the series. Let's delve into the key differences that distinguish the AnkerMake M5C from its predecessor:

Print Size

The M5C has a print area of 220×220×250 mm, slightly smaller than the M5, which offers a 235×235×250 mm print volume. While the M5C's size is still ample for most standard printing projects, the M5 does offer a bit more space for larger builds.

Camera and Advanced Features

The M5C does not include a camera, AI recognition, or time-lapse video capabilities-features present in the M5. These additions in the M5 enhance the user experience by enabling monitoring, video streaming, and the creation of dynamic time-lapse videos of the printing process.

Hotend

The M5C distinguishes itself with an all-metal hotend capable of reaching temperatures up to 300°C. While the M5 also offers an all-metal hotend as an option, the M5C comes standard with this feature, allowing it to readily handle a more diverse range of materials that necessitate higher printing temperatures. This capability makes the M5C particularly versatile, catering to users who work with advanced materials requiring elevated thermal conditions.

Extrusion Flow

The M5C features an extrusion flow rate of 35 mm³/s, significantly higher than the M5's 24 mm³/s. A higher extrusion flow rate in the M5C translates to faster print speeds and more efficient production.

Screen

The M5 includes a 4.3-inch touch screen for navigation and control, whereas the M5C omits the screen, relying on external app-based controls for its operations.

All in all, the M5C offers simplified operations with its One-Click Button and a higher temperature range for more material versatility, albeit at the cost of some advanced features like video streaming and AI recognition found in the M5. The choice between the two models depends on your specific needs regarding print size, material handling capability, and preference for onboard monitoring features.

Conclusion

In summary, the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer stands out as a budget-friendly choice that doesn't skimp on essential features. Its ease of use, efficient printing capabilities, and high-temperature handling make it ideal for both novices and experienced users. While it lacks some high-end features, its attractive price point of $399 offers great value, making it a practical option for those seeking quality and affordability in their 3D printing endeavors.

FAQ

Which types of filament are compatible with the AnkerMake M5C?

The AnkerMake M5C is versatile in its filament compatibility, handling a variety of materials including PLA, TPU, PETG, and more. This flexibility allows users to explore different types of projects with ease.

What is the Price Tag on the AnkerMake M5C?

The AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer is priced competitively at $399, offering a cost-effective solution for users seeking a balance between quality and affordability.

What is the Printing Speed of the AnkerMake M5C?

The AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer boasts a high printing speed, reaching up to 500 mm/s in Fast Mode, making it notably efficient for rapid production.