The FlashForge AD5X Is a CoreXY 3D Printer With Multi-Color, Mixed Material Capability for Under $230

The AD5X is the least expensive FlashForge printer that offers multi material printing, which basically allows you to use multiple colors or multiple filament types on a single 3D print. It also features a CoreXY structure, which is rare for a printer in this price range. In a CoreXY printer, only the print head moves while the motors are permanently fixed. Since the motors are generally the heaviest component, this improves print speed and precision.

The AD5X features an open bed design with a working space measuring approximately 8.7" cubed. For those of you who are looking to enclose the chamber in order to create a more stable environment for your prints, you can purchase the official kit for $49.99 that can turn it into a closed chamber setup. Alternatively, you can just build yourself a big box that you can place over the entire printer, probably for an even cheaper price.

Details

The AD5X boasts a print speed of up to 600mm/s with 20,000mm/s² acceleration and can print a benchy in 12 minutes. Other features including solid build quality (all structural components are made of metal), a 4.3" color touchscreen with intuitive controls, auto leveling, and vibration compensation. Assembly is quick and easy and you should be able to make your first test print in a matter of minutes. No camera is included but, again, there's an official kit to add one.

The multi-filament module fleshes out the 3D printing capabilities and is one of the most important features for any mid to pro level enthusiast. With it you can print using up to four different colored filaments or filament materials simultaneously. It features an intelligent filament system that can identify and manage all four spools seamlessly and independently. Multi-filament add-ons in general cost $200-$300 by themselves, so having an integrated solution will save you a lot of money.

TL;DR:

• Open chamber 8.7" cubed working space
• CoreXY 3D printer (more stable than other types)
• 600mm/s print speed with 20,000mm/s² acceleration
• Includes multi-filament printing module
• Automatic filament switching
• Auto leveling and vibration compensation
• Easy assembly

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