AnkerMake M5 3D Printer Review

Introduction #

The AnkerMake M5 enters the 3D printing market as a high-speed, user-friendly machine with a mix of impressive features and minor drawbacks. Designed for both beginners and enthusiasts, it balances speed, ease of use, and modern connectivity—though not without some trade-offs.

Key Specifications

• Build Volume: 235 x 235 x 250 mm
• Max Speed: 500 mm/s (PowerBoost 3.0)
• Materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, TPU
• Auto-Leveling: 49-point (7x7 grid)
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz), USB-C
• Display: 4.3-inch color touchscreen
• Weight: 32 kg

Setup and Assembly #

Anker claims a 15-minute setup, and for the physical assembly, this holds true. The printer arrives mostly pre-assembled, requiring only basic tools to attach the gantry and connect cables. The process is intuitive, aided by clear instructions and a packaging design that doubles as an assembly. However, the total time from unboxing to first print stretches closer to 1 hour and 15 minutes due to firmware updates, mandatory app registration, Wi-Fi configuration, and the 10-minute auto-bed leveling process. Network setup is exclusively tied to AnkerMake’s app, which requires creating an account and connecting via Bluetooth to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. There’s no Ethernet option, and reconnecting after power cycling necessitates reopening the app.

Build Quality and Design #

The M5 boasts a premium feel with its die-cast aluminum alloy frame, contributing to its 32 kg weight and stable operation during high-speed prints. While the heavy-duty construction minimizes vibrations, minor fitment issues were noted—some components didn’t align perfectly, though these did not impact functionality. The removable PEI-coated magnetic build plate simplifies print removal, and the 4.3-inch touchscreen offers a polished interface with night mode.

Performance and Print Quality #

With a build volume of 235 x 235 x 250 mm and a maximum speed of 500 mm/s (via PowerBoost 3.0 firmware), the M5 lives up to its “fast” reputation. A standard Benchy print completed in 50 minutes exhibited minor stringing, resolvable by adjusting nozzle temperature. The 7x7 auto-leveling system ensures consistent first layers, though initial firmware versions had bed-leveling quirks now largely resolved. Print quality rivals mid-tier FDM printers, though surface consistency lags slightly behind resin alternatives.

Software and Connectivity #

AnkerMake Studio, the proprietary slicer, is at the time of testing in beta and replaces the legacy Cura-based software. While functional, the macOS version lacks native Apple Silicon support, running via Rosetta. The app-dependent ecosystem—required for firmware updates, AI monitoring, and timelapses—may frustrate users seeking offline flexibility. The AI camera, marketed for error detection, underdelivers, failing to recognize common issues like spaghetti prints or extruder jams in testing.

Noise and Cooling #

The dual 15,000 RPM cooling fans generate significant noise, particularly at idle, though the extruder itself operates quietly. This is a trade-off for the printer’s thermal management, which prevents heat creep during rapid printing.

Ecosystem and Upgrades #

AnkerMake offers a robust selection of spare parts, including an optional all-metal hotend ($34.99), absent from the base model. Proprietary nozzles and a partially plastic extruder design have drawn criticism, with some users reporting hardware failures requiring DIY fixes.

Conclusion #

The AnkerMake M5 excels as a fast, accessible 3D printer with a sleek design and reliable auto-leveling. Its price positions it as a premium choice for beginners and speed-focused users. However, reliance on cloud services, noisy cooling, and inconsistent AI features temper its appeal. For those willing to tweak settings and overlook software quirks, the M5 is a compelling option.