AnkerMake is a company that surprised everyone with its M5 3D printer. But today, we will discuss another notable offering in our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review.
The M5C packs many notable features but dropped some from the original to cut costs. Despite that, it has elements that make it an option for your 3D printing needs.
Look at our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review to learn more about it. We will discuss its design, functionality, features, specs, and how it works.
AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Packaging
AnkerMake shipped the M5C in a plain but sturdy cardboard box that protected the product. Aside from the 3D printer, you will find the following items inside the box:
- Filament Holder
- Screws and Toolkit
- Quick Start Guide
- Power Cord
AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review – Design and Functionality
When our package arrived for this AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review, we saw it was mostly pre-assembled. So when you get yours, you will only require eight bolts to assemble it.
You can assemble it in approximately 20 minutes. Unlike many other printers, it makes wiring simple. Only two wires for the stepper motors and an appliance-style cord for the tool head are necessary.
The AnkerMake M5C offers a more compact design than the M5, featuring a sleek and modern appearance. Its wiring and mechanics are concealed within the printer frame, leaving only one exposed cable running to the tool head.
What is noticeably absent here is the screen. AnkerMake chose to eliminate any form of display on the M5C. Instead, it went for a play button and Smartphone app.
While Smartphone apps for 3D printers are common, they typically serve as supplementary tools for monitoring prints. In the case of AnkerMake, the Smartphone app is mandatory since it lets you fully control your printer.
However, using the app might pose a challenge for users of a specific generation. Simultaneously, it can appeal to those who have grown up with technology at their fingertips.
Its standout feature is the sizable play button on the front right corner of the base. And then, it is accompanied by a glowing LED (a letter M) on the gantry.
One-Touch Button
AnkerMake emphasises the one-touch button on the M5C. However, it is more of a novelty than a groundbreaking feature.
This button is customisable via application and offers a restricted range of functions. You can program it to perform five actions: three while the printer is idle and two during printing. You can trigger these with a single, double tap, or three-second button press.
While in idle mode, you can have the button:
- Print the newest file on the USB-C drive
- Auto-level
- Reprint last file
- Home all axis
- Do nothing and leave it as is
During printing, the button can do the following:
- Pause/Continue
- Stop Printing
- Leave it as is
The button is handy for emergency stops or pausing for filament changes. Without a USB-C flash drive, we could not test playing files from it. Yet, we quickly reprinted the last file using the button.
The button is unnecessary when sending pre-sliced files from the mobile app or via WiFi from the AnkerMake slicer.
Even without the camera, we realised the application was handy when trying it for our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review. When the M5C runs into issues, it alerts you immediately.
When testing the filament runout sensor, the application promptly alerts the phone regarding the need for more filaments. However, unplugging the tool head without powering off the printer results in a significant error.
The printer loses its ability to sense temperature, and you will know about the issue with loud beeping. You will also receive a warning from the application and an email notification highlighting the potential danger.
Key Features of the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer
Less Time Waiting, More on Doing
Unlock the potential of lightning-fast 500mm/s printing with the Fast Mode of the M5C. Transform your creative concepts into breathtaking, top-tier models in less time than watching a full-length movie.
PowerBoost 2.0
This feature is an advanced motion control system with a robust stepper motor, belt driveshaft, and an S-smoothing algorithm. This technology incrementally enhances the printing speed and acceleration of our 3D printers, all while maintaining impeccable print quality.”
S-Smoothing Algorithm
AnkerMake developed the M5C based on the Klipper firmware’s Pressure Advance and Input Shaper algorithms. As a result, it has less jerking and inertia to suppress vibrations when printing at high speeds.
Stronger Power Release
The new algorithm adjusts the pulse frequency of the stepper motor based on motion planning. It releases more power by 30% than PowerBoost 1.0.
Maximum 35mm³/s Extrusion Flow
The 35mm³/s extrusion flow rate and 82 mm³ melting chamber allow the M5C to deliver exceptional extrusion force. It has over 150N extrusion force and supports a higher filling speed. As a result, you can print more models faster without affecting their quality.
Ultra-Direct Extruder
The extruder was one of the things we immediately noticed when we opened the product packaging. So, our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review will discuss more details about the extruder.
The reduced size of the ultra-direct extruder makes it lighter for better motion control and accuracy. As a result, it achieves fast, high-quality prints. Its extrusion gear also has an increased size, measuring φ19mm.
The all-metal design of the extruder hotend allows faster filament melting. It also has an enhanced 60W heating power and is 1.5 times more efficient than conventional printers.
The double-cooling system and simulated fluid air duct design allow up to 1.72CFM cooling air volume.
S-Smoothing Algorithm
The S-smoothing algorithm guarantees smooth printing, even at fast speeds.
Variable Layer Thickness Slicing Algorithm
This printer has a 0.2mm nozzle for accurate flow control. It allows for achieving 0.05mm layer thickness and surface finish Ra of 3 for faster printing and higher efficiency.
AnkerMake Official Nozzle Accessory
Achieve extra details using the 0.2 mm nozzle, with a roundness deviation of less than 0.05 mm and inner surface smoothness of less than 0.4mm inner surface smoothness.
Integrated Base
The base of the M5C weighs 5kg and has a reduced centre of gravity for less vibration amplitude during high-speed printing. While testing the product for our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review,
Die-Cast Aluminum Alloy Base
The die-cast aluminium alloy used for the base of the M5C goes through Computer Numeric Control, die-casting, spray-painting, and polishing. As a result, the 3D printer offers excellent quality out of the box.
Stylish and Durable Z-Axis Module + Die-cast Aluminium Alloy Base
AnkerMake manufactured the Z-axis module of the M5C with aerospace-grade aluminium alloy. It has an anodised surface treatment process, offering a stylish look to your workspace.
CNC Crafted Body
CNC crafting ensures that each part of the M5C is accurate and precise shape. It is sturdy and durable to reduce any potential inconsistencies in the structure of the printer.
Top-Tier Belt Material
The belt features a glass fibre rope for higher tensile strength, low elongation rate, and excellent bending performance. It can also last up to 720 hours and over 600,000 movements without loosening.
All-Metal Hotend
This 3D printer has a stainless steel body that prevents deterioration and allows the hotend to print at 300°C.
Define What Every Click Means to You
Customise single/double clicks and long-press functions to print how you want.
More Control Your Prints
The M5C eliminates the limitations of traditional 3D printing with its multi-device control system. It allows remote connection and control of printers via the AnkerMake app and AnkerMake slicer.
New and Upgraded User Interface
The new, beginner-friendly UI lets you conveniently operate the 3D printer.
Start Prints with G-code via the AnkerMake App
Conveniently send A-code/G-code from your cloud storage directly to the M5C to start printing immediately.
Unlimited Inspiration from the AnkerMake Model Library
AnkerMake offers a library of free models designed by professionals, allowing you to search for many high-quality designs.
Reduced Energy Consumption by 59%
The M5C consumes less energy with its faster printing time, which helps save the earth.
Specifications
- Build Volume: 22 x 22 x 25cm
- Material: PETG/PLA/TPU (up to 300°C)
- Build Platform: PEI Textured Spring Steel Sheet, Heated
- Extruder Type: Direct Drive
- Nozzle: 0.4 high flow
- Bed Levelling: Automatic
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Machine Footprint: 46.6 x 37.4 x 48cm
- Machine Weight: 9.6kg
Hands-on with the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer
Before we discuss its performance in our AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review, we will discuss the AnkerMake App.
If you are a newcomer to 3D printing, the AnkerMake app offers an exceptional experience. Its Easy Mode enables anyone to retrieve a file from the internet, allowing it to materialise within hours with minimal guidance.
There are numerous 3D printer apps available. However, most cater to experts and often overlook novice users. Having an app that caters to all skill levels is truly a game-changer.
AnkerMake guarantees that the application works well with your laptop and Smartphone. You can also use them interchangeably depending on the location, which is something unique.
The AnkerMake app is more handy since the M5C has no display. As a result, the mobile phone or laptop is your only screen when controlling the 3D printer.
The great news is that these apps offer a superior experience than the simplistic displays found in budget 3D printers.
Within the AnkerMake App, you will discover an expanding collection of pre-sliced files. These files are sized for the M5C and are compatible with the M5.
Currently, the application has 37 files, primarily consisting of various toy designs. Although it does not match the extensive library of the ToyBox app, the growth potential is promising.
It is worth noting that there is no way to add your files to the library. However, this might change with the use of a USB-C stick. Additionally, the printer itself lacks onboard file storage.
The AnkerMake App has the flexibility to work with the older M5 model and can manage multiple printers simultaneously.
Setting up the AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer
The positive aspect in this instance is that the applications provide a significantly improved overall experience. It compares to the simplistic displays commonly found on many other budget 3D printers.
With the AnkerMake M5C, a pressure sensor mechanism linked to the hotend for automatic bed levelling is present. Physically tapping the surface is a personal favourite as it often establishes a perfect Z height.
In the case of this printer, Z height adjustments were only necessary for printing PETG.
The build platform is firmly attached to the Y-Axis and has no manual tramming knobs. You can manage all adjustments and settings through the app.
To level the bed, navigate the app and locate the Adjustments section. Once there, tap the Auto Level button.
The application will provide an estimated time of around 10 minutes for levelling. To proceed, hit the Start button, and the machine will begin heating up. It will reach 175 degrees on the nozzle and 60 degrees on the bed.
Afterwards, it will home and perform double taps at 49 different points in a 7×7 grid across the bed surface.
Additionally, the M5C boasts an enhanced filament path featuring a reverse Bowden tube connected to the spool holder. This design facilitates effortless direct feeding into the extruder.
Tp the thermometer icon adjacent to the Print button to load the filament. There is a list where you can choose the type you intend to load. From there, the system will continue heating the nozzle and plate to the appropriate settings.
Carefully insert the filament into the Bowden tube until you encounter resistance. Then, press the lever on the tool head and push the filament a few millimetres more. Now, on the main screen, click Extrude, and it will smoothly feed the filament into the hotend.
To remove filament or switch colours, you can follow the same steps in reverse.
AnkerMake Slicer
AnkerMake offers its unique slicer, which has undergone significant improvements since the release of M5. Typically, proprietary slicers are not impressive, but we will gladly make an exception for this one.
Unlike some slicers that claim to have Easy or Basic modes, its slicer truly shines due to the straightforward layout. When using it, you follow a logical top-to-bottom sequence. You can choose from options like Material, Printer, Printing Style (speed), Height, Layer and more.
The beauty of it lies in its simplicity. Every choice is limited to a straightforward Yes/No or a maximum of three options.
Click on Slice and send it to the Preview Menu, which mirrors what you would encounter in Expert Mode. In this step, you can review the slicing process thoroughly.
Once ready, you can Export the file to the USB-C flash drive. If not, hit Print to send it directly to a printer.
Performance
Our test prints were models provided by the AnkerMake app. It has an extensive selection, so we chose a few among these to see how the 3D printer works.
Although smaller than its predecessor, the M5, and despite the absence of a camera, it does not compromise performance. It has an improved all-metal hotend which performs perfectly. This 3D printer has a well-placed filament runout sensor on the tool head, making it less annoying.
Another thing that made the M5C convenient to use was its Y belt. It was not stuck in a crevice where filament scraps tend to get tangled. And to our surprise, this 3D printer performed quietly, even with high printing speeds.
The M5C operates at an incredibly high speed. So, it does not need the bulkiness of its predecessor to maintain stability.
As one of the quickest bed slingers in the current race for rapid 3D printing, it is a strong contender. It promises an optional six-spool colour engine by year-end, making the M5C a model to watch out for.
Its user-friendliness is exceptional, making it an excellent recommendation for newcomers and creators focused on pure production. With minimal adjustments on this printer, individuals who enjoy customising their machines might want to explore other options.
AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review Summary
The M5C is a high-speed 3D printer that removes some features of conventional 3D printers. Although it lacks a screen, it has a user-friendly mobile app and slicer software. Also, the one-touch button design makes it user-friendly and ideal for new users without any 3D printing experience.
Some people may find the lack of a screen display an issue. Fortunately, you can solve this by keeping an old smartphone near the printer. Of course, you will need to install the app.
This unit may not be suitable for tech-savvy 3D printing enthusiasts who want many customisation options. However, it is highly convenient, user-friendly, and flexible.
Plus, it delivers excellent performance at high speeds. With its simple design, even older people will find this 3D printer easy to use.
When we tested the product for this AnkerMake M5C 3D Printer Review, we enjoyed using it. The 3D printer performed excellently, and its print quality was superior even at high printing speeds.
If you are looking for an affordable, high-quality 3D printer that delivers excellent performance consistently, we highly recommend the M5C.
Visit the official product page of AnkerMake for more details about the M5C 3D Printer.