Adventurer 5M VS 5M Pro – Which 3D Printer Should You Choose?

The Flashforge Adventurer 5M and Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro are two popular models in the realm of 3D printing, each catering to different user needs and preferences. While they share many similarities, they also have distinct features that set them apart. This article will delve into the specifications of Adventurer 5M VS 5M Pro, their usability, and their overall value to help potential buyers make an informed decision.

Adventurer 5M VS 5M Pro

Overview of Models

Flashforge Adventurer 5M

• Price: $299
• Target Audience: Hobbyists and beginners looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality.

Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro

• Price: $449
• Target Audience: More advanced users who require additional features and convenience for professional or extensive printing tasks.

Similarities

Both models share a robust set of specifications that make them appealing:

• Build Volume: 220 × 220 × 220 mm
• Build Plate: Flexible removable PEI steel plate.
• Power Supply: AC100~120/200~240V, 50/60Hz，350W
• Extruder: Direct drive; Qty: 1
• Print Speed: Both printers can achieve a maximum print speed of 300 mm/s.
• Travel Speed: They both have a travel speed of 600 mm/s.
• Acceleration: Max acceleration: 20000mm/s²
• Temperature Capabilities: The hot ends reach temperatures up to 280°C, while the heated beds can go up to 110°C.
• Auto-Leveling System: Both printers include an efficient auto-leveling system, enhancing ease of use.
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm/0.6mm/0.8mm/0.25mm
• Display Screen: 4.3-inch
• Compatible Slicing Software: They utilize similar software (FlashPrint 5/Orca-Flashforge/Orca Slicer), providing a familiar interface for users transitioning between models.
• File Formats: STL, OBJ, 3MF
• Connectivity: Both printers support Wi-Fi; Ethernet; USB.
• Deposition Modeling: Fused deposition modeling (FDM)
• Other Functions: Both models have filament run-out reminders and power loss recovery features. However, the PRO version also includes an automatic shutdown feature for added safety.

Key Differences

The differences between the Adventurer 5M and the 5M Pro primarily revolve around features that enhance usability and printing capabilities:

Device Size

• Adventurer 5M: Dimensions are approximately 363×376×413363×376×413 mm (excluding display screen and spool holder).
• Adventurer 5M PRO: Slightly larger at 380×400×453380×400×453 mm (excluding spool holder).

Device Weight

• Adventurer 5M: 10.8 kg.
• Adventurer 5M PRO: 14.6 kg.

Build and Enclosure

• Adventurer 5M: Open-frame design, which limits its ability to print with materials that require controlled environments like ABS and ASA.
• Adventurer 5M Pro: Fully enclosed design, allowing for better temperature control and enabling the use of a wider variety of filaments, including those that require a heated chamber.

Filtration System

Adventurer 5M Pro: Equipped with both internal and external filtration systems (HEPA + activated carbon) to minimize harmful fumes, making it more suitable for indoor use.

Adventurer 5M: Lacks internal and external filtration, which can lead to unpleasant odors when printing certain materials.

Noise Levels

• Adventurer 5M: Noted for being relatively loud during operation.
• Adventurer 5M Pro: Quieter operation due to its enclosed design (Low-noise mode: 50dB; Standard mode: 55dB), making it more pleasant to use in shared spaces.

Filament Compatibility

• Adventurer 5M: Supports PLA and PETG with the 0.4mm nozzle; TPU and PLA-CF with the 0.6mm nozzle.
• Adventurer 5M PRO: In addition to PLA and PETG, it supports ABS and ASA, allowing for greater versatility in filament choices

Camera Monitoring

• Adventurer 5M: Does not include camera monitoring.
• Adventurer 5M PRO: Features built-in camera monitoring for remote observation of prints.

Aesthetic Features

• Adventurer 5M: Basic design without additional visual enhancements.
• Adventurer 5M Pro: Features built-in LED lights for improved visibility during printing, contributing to a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Additional Functionalities

• Adventurer 5M: Can utilize smart plugs for remote operation, allowing users to turn the printer on/off via a smartphone app.
• Adventurer 5M Pro: Lacks this capability due to its power button design; the printer cannot be turned on remotely once it is in standby mode.

Cost Considerations

While the base price difference is significant—$150 separating the two models—users should consider additional costs if opting for the Adventurer 5M:

DIY Enclosure Kit: Users can purchase an enclosure kit for approximately $40 to mimic some benefits of the Pro model.

Filament Costs: Printing parts for an enclosure may require additional filament purchases (around $60) if using PETG.

Smart Plug Compatibility: The standard model can be used with smart plugs for remote operation, which is not compatible with the Pro due to its power button design.

In total, even after adding potential upgrades to the Adventurer 5M, it may still come out cheaper than the Pro while offering similar functionality depending on user needs.

Customer Reviews

Flashforge Adventurer 5M

Positive Reviews

• Ease of Use and Quality: Many users, such as Camilo Segura, praised the printer for its simplicity, low maintenance, and high reliability. They noted its fast printing capabilities and good quality, particularly for ABS prints. However, there were mentions of issues with certain materials like PLA-CF and TPU due to humidity affecting performance.
• Value for Money: Steven Sheldon described the printer as fantastic for its price, emphasizing its quick setup, quiet operation, and effective heated bed that promotes adhesion. He appreciated the built-in camera and wireless capabilities for monitoring prints.

Critical Reviews

• Software Issues: Michael’s review stands out as highly critical, citing significant problems with the software and firmware. He experienced difficulties with remote monitoring features and found tech support lacking. He expressed frustration over compatibility issues between the camera and enclosure components.
• Potential vs. Reality: Other reviewers noted that while the hardware has potential, many bugs need addressing. For instance, one user reported that print failures were common at high speeds, suggesting that lowering the speed improved reliability.

Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro

Positive Reviews

• Ease of Use and Build Quality: Frank W. praised the FlashForge Creator Pro for its sturdy build, ease of use, and reliable performance with ABS and PLA filaments. He highlighted its user-friendly design, excellent print quality, and responsive customer support, which exceeded expectations even during the holidays.
• Customer Support: One user raved about exceptional customer support, with prompt email responses. This level of service enhanced the overall experience, making the printer highly recommended for beginners and professionals alike.

Critical Reviews

• Frequent Failures: Many users, such as one reviewer with extensive experience in 3D printing, reported consistent print failures despite hours of troubleshooting. Issues included warped prints, misaligned extruders, and frequent belt slippage, with only one successful print achieved out of an entire spool of filament.
• Build Quality Concerns: Several reviewers criticized the printer’s use of cheap plastic parts, leading to mechanical failures like worn belts, broken pulleys, and jammed extruders. The heated bed and filament guide tubes were also cited as poorly designed and unreliable.
• Support Challenges: Support was a major pain point for critical reviewers, who found responses slow and unhelpful. The lack of clear troubleshooting guides or effective resolutions further compounded frustrations.
• Potential vs. Reality: While the printer has potential, significant hardware and software flaws undermine its capabilities. From unresponsive buttons to improper heating and calibration, the experience often fell short of expectations, requiring costly upgrades or replacements.

Adventurer 5M VS 5M Pro Comparison Table

Here’s a table to make the comparison between the Flashforge Adventurer 5M and 5M Pro clear and easy to understand:

Feature	Flashforge Adventurer 5M	Flashforge Adventurer 5M Pro
Price	$299	$449
Target Audience	Hobbyists and beginners	Advanced users, professionals
Build Volume	220 × 220 × 220 mm	220 × 220 × 220 mm
Build Plate	Flexible removable PEI steel plate	Flexible removable PEI steel plate
Device Size	363 × 376 × 413 mm	380 × 400 × 453 mm
Design	Open-frame design	Fully enclosed design
Filtration System	None	Internal and external (HEPA + carbon)
Noise Levels	Loud	Quieter operation (Low-noise: 50dB)
Filament Compatibility	PLA, PETG, TPU, PLA-CF	PLA, PETG, ABS, ASA
Camera Monitoring	No	Built-in camera for remote monitoring
Additional Features	Smart plug compatibility	Built-in LED lights, no smart plug support
Max Print Speed	300 mm/s	300 mm/s
Temperature	Hot end: 280°C; Bed: 110°C	Hot end: 280°C; Bed: 110°C
Auto-Leveling	Yes	Yes
Display	4.3-inch screen	4.3-inch screen
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB	Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB
Customer Reviews	Simple and reliable; issues with PLA-CF/TPU	High build quality; better for ABS/ASA
Critical Reviews	Software/firmware issues; high-speed failures	Expensive; build quality concerns
Cost Considerations	Additional $100 for upgrades (e.g., enclosure, filament for upgrades)	Higher base price but includes extras

Conclusion

Choosing between the Flashforge Adventurer 5M and the 5M Pro ultimately depends on individual requirements:

• If budget constraints are paramount and users are primarily working with PLA or other low-temperature filaments, the Adventurer 5M offers excellent value without unnecessary features.
• For those who require versatility in filament options, quieter operation, and enhanced aesthetics right out of the box, investing in the Adventurer 5M Pro could be worthwhile.

Both printers provide solid performance; however, understanding their differences will help users select the model that best fits their specific printing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)