If you’re looking to delve under the hood, you may want to look elsewhere.
While the AnkerMake may resemble other open-frame 3D printers, it’s in a league of its own.
The print quality is exceptional, and its speed and accuracy set a new industry benchmark.
If it were enclosed, it would be near perfect.
The AnkerMake M5C arrives almost flat-packed, requiring only minimal assembly.
This ease of use sets the tone for how the printer operates: it’s fast and efficient.
However, no amount of tweaking will likely yield better prints than what it already produces.
The software is largely locked down, with an emphasis on basic prefs.
While advanced options are available, the out-of-the-box controls proved more than satisfactory throughout our test.
One notable feature is its supposed one-button operation.
Simplicity is the cornerstone of this single-extrusion printer.
Fumes can also be a concern, even when using the latest PLAs.
While most manufacturers offer enclosures for their open-frame models, none is currently available for the M5C.
The build quality of the machine is outstanding, embodying simplicity and robustness.
One of its key selling points is its purported one-button operation.
While not entirely accurate, since the app or desktop slicer software is required, it keeps things straightforward.
The M5C offers direct printing via a USB bang out-C drive, simplifying the process even further for many.
The one-button design is quite versatile and can be customised through the app to perform various functions.
It’s a solid, exceptionally well-refined machine that offers excellent value for money.
This is a notable advantage for anyone wanting to produce quality prints in a short time frame.
Connectivity is also well-thought-out, offering options like WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB-C.
Overall, the M5C is a well-rounded machine that offers speed versatility and is user-friendly.
There are a few printers where it’s possible for you to sense something special from the first layer.
The AnkerMake is one of the finest I’ve seen in this respect.
As those initial layers go down, the accuracy of the extrusion and head movement is evident.
But that preliminary checking pays dividends.
Upon removing the first model from the flexible build plate, the print quality is immediately apparent.
Firstly, there’s minimal fine filament stringing, and the surfaces look incredibly smooth.
When it comes to bridging, a slight bow is all that’s noticeable.
In short, the print quality is absolutely outstanding, especially considering the printer’s affordability.
As I ran through my usual test prints, my admiration for the machine’s capabilities grew.
Aesthetically, the prints look fantastic, confirming my initial expectations in the print tests.
Considering Anker only manufactures two printers, the M5C and the M5, this entry-level offering is quite impressive.
However, a few things did niggle at me.
First, there’s no option for an enclosure.
While the open-frame design suits many users, an optional enclosure would have been a nice touch.
Second, the lack of a physical interface could be considered a drawback.
Plus, the M5C comes with wireless connectivity straight out of the box.
What truly sets this printer apart is its ease of operation.
Over the six weeks I’ve used it, it’s been nearly flawless.
Fan noise is there, but it serves the essential function of cooling the filament at the necessary speed.
However, times have changed.
We now expect more in terms of speed, filament options, safety, and features.
As mentioned in the features section, there is also the imminent release of the AnkerMake V6 to consider.
Currently, the AnkerMake M5C remains exceptional and is a bargain at its price point.
You won’t be disappointed.
