Introducing: Flashforge AD5X – 3D printing with four colors

The Flashforge AD5X is smart 3D printing in a new dimension.

Introduction – what is this article about?

The world of 3D printing is constantly evolving, and the Flashforge AD5X multicolor 3D printer plays a prominent role in this evolution. This compact device revolutionizes hobbyist and professional 3D printing by using four colors simultaneously, while having a surprisingly user-friendly design.

Flashforge is a relatively new company in the 3D printer market. Over the years, they have launched a number of innovative products, the Adventure series of which has become particularly popular. Their latest development, the AD5X model, like the rest of the series, focuses on reliability and user experience, but with one significant innovation: the Intelligent Filament System (IFS), which allows the simultaneous use of four different colors or types of filament during a printing process.

The AD5X is particularly useful for artists, designers and hobbyists who want to create vibrant, detailed prints. Those working in the education sector can also benefit from the multi-color printing capability, which allows for hands-on teaching of color theory and 3D design. The printer’s 220×220×220 mm build area is sufficient for most projects.

The CoreXY system design ensures precise movement, while the direct drive extruder allows for the use of various filament types, including PLA, PETG and TPU. Wireless connectivity options (WiFi, USB, Ethernet) and a 4,3-inch touchscreen further enhance the user experience.

The Flashforge AD5X is priced competitively (typically around $450) compared to similar printers, especially considering its multi-color printing capabilities. The printer is easy to set up and use, with the manufacturer claiming it can be ready to use in less than 10 minutes.

Compact elegance and practicality – The design and construction of the Flashforge AD5X

The Flashforge AD5X grabs attention at first glance with its sleek, black exterior and compact design. The printer's dimensions (with a 220×220×220 mm print area) allow it to fit on even a smaller desk or shelf, while still providing enough space for most creative projects. With a weight of 11 kg, it is sufficiently stable, while still being easy to move if necessary.

The printer features a modular CoreXY design that not only saves space but also contributes to accurate and fast printing performance. On the right side of the printer is the Intelligent Filament System (IFS), which distinguishes this printer from conventional models with its four spool holders. The spool holders are numbered (1 to 4) and arranged to take up minimal space while being easily accessible when changing filament. The IFS module is connected to the print head via a 4-in-1 PTFE tube system, which allows for automatic filament switching during printing.

The design of the print head is particularly innovative: the easy-to-change nozzle system is made extremely user-friendly by magnetic attachment and Pogo pin connectors. No tools are required to remove and replace the nozzle, just release a small lever and the nozzle is out. In addition to the default 0,4 mm nozzle, optional 0,25 mm, 0,6 mm and 0,8 mm nozzles are also available, allowing for different levels of detail and speed of printing.

The print bed is equipped with a flexible PEI spring steel plate, which provides excellent adhesion during printing, while also facilitating the removal of finished models. The plate has a practical handle for easy handling, and small protrusions help with precise positioning on the print bed. The heated bed can reach a maximum temperature of 110 °C, which allows the use of different filaments, such as PETG or TPU.

The AD5X's interface consists of a 4,3-inch color touchscreen located on the front of the printer. The screen provides a user-friendly interface for setting up the print, managing filaments, and adjusting various print parameters. The touchscreen allows for easy menu navigation and displays real-time print status, including temperature, print time, and any error messages.

The back of the printer houses the connection ports: a USB port for direct connection, an Ethernet port for network connection, and built-in WiFi for wireless printing. The power connector and the main switch are also located here. The back of the printer also features a special opening, the so-called “poop shoot”, which ensures controlled removal of used filament during filament change. This system allows for clean color changes and minimizes filament waste during multi-color printing.

The overall design of the Flashforge AD5X is a well-thought-out, user-experience-focused design that combines practicality and aesthetics. Simple assembly, modular components, and an easy-to-use interface all contribute to making this printer an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced users.

Impressive performance in the details – Flashforge AD5X technical specifications

The technical specifications of the Flashforge AD5X 3D printer paint an impressive picture of a device that excels not only in multi-color printing, but also in speed and versatility. The printer has a build volume of 220×220×220 mm, which provides enough space for most household and small professional projects, whether it's making models, prototypes or functional parts.

One of the most important technical features is the printer's CoreXY kinematic system, which enables high-precision and high-speed printing. The maximum print speed is an impressive 600 mm/s, with an acceleration of 20.000 mm/s², which significantly reduces print times compared to traditional printers. This performance is especially useful for larger or multi-part projects where print time can be a critical factor.

The printer's extruder is a direct drive type, which is especially beneficial when printing flexible filaments such as TPU. This configuration causes fewer filament feeding problems and allows for more accurate feeding. The default nozzle diameter is 0,4 mm, but optional nozzles of 0,25 mm, 0,6 mm and 0,8 mm can be used, allowing for different levels of detail and speed of printing. The maximum extruder temperature is 300 °C, which allows the use of various high-temperature filaments.

The Flashforge AD5X features an Intelligent Filament System (IFS), which allows the simultaneous use of four different filaments. The system supports a filament diameter of 1,75 mm and is compatible with a wide range of filament types, including PLA, PLA PRO, HS PLA, Matte PLA, SILK PLA, PETG, PETG Pro, HS PETG, ASA materials, as well as TPU 95A and carbon fiber versions. The printer's open material system also allows the use of third-party filaments, which increases the possibilities of use and cost-effectiveness.

Other technical features of the printer include a 4,3-inch color touchscreen, which provides an intuitive user interface. Connectivity options include USB, WiFi and Ethernet, allowing for flexible print control. For slicing, the machine supports Orca-Flashforge, FlashPrint 5 software, and is also compatible with the popular Prusa Slicer, Cura and Orca Slicer programs, allowing users to work in their familiar software environment.

The printer's advanced features include auto-leveling, filament detection, power-off resume, and multi-device management. A 99% print-resume success rate means that in the event of a power outage or other interruption, the printer is highly likely to pick up where it left off, minimizing material waste and maximizing print success rates.

The weight of the entire machine is 11 kg, while the packaging weight is 14,2 kg. The package dimensions are 44×44×51,5 cm, which allows for easy transportation. The printer is powered by AC 100~240V, 50/60Hz, 650W, which allows for worldwide use and provides remarkable performance for multi-color printing processes, all in a compact and efficient package.

Real-world experience – What Flashforge AD5X delivers in practice

Real-world user experiences and expert reviews of the Flashforge AD5X 3D printer are fairly positive, although there are some notable challenges when using the device. Several testers and early adopters have shared their experiences with the printer, providing valuable insight into everyday use.

Assembly and setup were generally a very simple and quick process for most users. The manufacturer’s promised “under 10 minutes” assembly time may seem a bit optimistic, but testers confirmed that the entire process was indeed quick and hassle-free. The package includes all the necessary tools and accessories, and mounting the screen, connecting the IFS module, and placing the filament holders is intuitive, even for less experienced users.

In terms of print quality, the AD5X performs consistently well. Models produced during testing showed clean details, accurate dimensions, and good layer adhesion. The basic print quality is comparable to more expensive models, although some have noted that it doesn't quite reach the level of high-end $1500 printers like the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon or the Creality K2 Plus. Still, for the price, the Flashforge AD5X is a standout, especially when you consider its multi-color printing capabilities.

The IFS system, one of the printer’s main attractions, generally works reliably, although some users have reported initial issues. Filament switching is seamless, and color changes produce precise, clean edges on multi-color models. The system proved particularly effective with the use of a so-called “purge block,” which minimizes color mixing. Several testers noted that the AD5X’s multi-color system worked well with specialty filaments that have been a problem with other, more expensive multi-color printers, such as silk PLA filaments.

However, one notable issue that several users have experienced is that the so-called “poop shoot” (filament ejection port) on the back of the printer can sometimes collide with the print bed or the cover. This issue can occur especially at the beginning of a print, when a certain position of the print head and the movement of the print bed can cause a collision. Some users have suggested that this issue could be resolved with a firmware update, while others have suggested manually positioning the print head before printing as a temporary solution. The manufacturer is reportedly working on a fix for the problem.

When it comes to maintenance and potential repairs, the AD5X has received mixed reviews. The nozzle system features an innovative magnetic mount and a simple release mechanism, making it very user-friendly. However, several users have noted that completely disassembling the print head – for example, in the event of a major clog – can be extremely time-consuming, taking up to 1,5 hours, as almost every screw has to be removed. This can be a significant drawback, especially for print farms or environments that require regular printing.

The printer's noise level is average. It's not one of the quietest models like the Creality High, but it's not particularly loud either. The fan noise and movement are audible, but not distracting in most environments. In terms of speed, the AD5X is indeed fast, as the specs promise, although some users have noted that quality can suffer slightly at the highest speed settings.

TPU filament compatibility was initially a major selling point for the printer, and several users have confirmed that the AD5X can indeed print multi-color TPU, a rare capability in this price range. Interestingly, some sources say that the marketing of TPU compatibility on the product page has since become less prominent, suggesting that there may have been issues with this in early versions. However, testers have also successfully printed multi-color TPU models and combined TPU-PLA projects, indicating that the printer can indeed handle these materials.

In the area of ​​remote print control and software compatibility, the Flashforge AD5X also shows strong performance. The Flash Maker app and Orca-Flashforge software allow for remote printer control, real-time status monitoring, and full control over filament types and colors. This can be especially useful for those who operate multiple printers or print farms. The printer also supports popular slicing software such as Prusa Slicer and Cura, which further increases flexibility.

One of the often-highlighted advantages is the compact design of the printer, especially the integration of the multicolor system into the printer frame. Other multicolor systems, such as the Bambu Lab AMS or the Creality K2 Plus CFS system, often have to be placed on top of or next to the printer, which significantly increases the space requirement. The IFS system, placed on the side of the AD5X, maintains the compact dimensions of the printer while providing full access to the print area and facilitating maintenance.

For longer print projects, the AD5X has generally proven to be reliable, although some users have noted that filament spool loading and compatibility with spools from different manufacturers can be variable. The special red adapter included with the printer helps with using spools with larger inner diameters, but some users have had a challenge getting certain brands of spools to sit securely.

Overall, real-world user experiences with the Flashforge AD5X show that the printer is a well-designed, competitively priced multicolor solution that should be particularly appealing to beginners and intermediate users. Despite its minor shortcomings and challenges, the printer strikes a balance between price, quality, and multicolor printing capability, giving it a unique position in the current 3D printing market.

Forward to a colorful future – Flashforge AD5X summary

The Flashforge AD5X multicolor 3D printer is clearly a noteworthy entry into the world of multicolor printing, especially considering its competitive price of around $450. The built-in Intelligent Filament System (IFS) offers an elegant solution to a problem that previously required more complex and expensive devices, all in a compact and user-friendly package.

The printer's strengths include surprisingly easy assembly and setup, good print quality, TPU compatibility and a space-saving design. The maximum speed of 600 mm/s and acceleration of 20.000 mm/s² are impressive, especially in this price range. The innovative nozzle system and the flexible PEI print bed also contribute to a positive user experience, ensuring easy maintenance and excellent adhesion.

However, there are some challenges to consider, such as the potential for “poop shoot” collisions with the print bed and the complex disassembly of the print head for repairs. However, these are not necessarily exclusionary factors, especially when considering the value and capabilities offered by the printer. Firmware updates are expected to resolve known issues, further improving the user experience.

The Flashforge AD5X is an ideal choice for artists, designers, educational institutions, and hobbyists looking to enter the world of multicolor 3D printing without having to make a significant investment in more expensive systems. The printer can be especially beneficial for those with limited space but who do not want to compromise on multicolor functionality.

Overall, the Flashforge AD5X is a well-designed, competitively priced multicolor 3D printer that strikes a balance between functionality, user-friendly design, and affordability. While not flawless, the AD5X makes a compelling case that multicolor 3D printing is no longer just the preserve of high-end users, but has become accessible to a wider audience, opening up new possibilities for both creative creation and practical applications.

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Flashforge AD5X 3D printer

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Flashforge AD5X 3D Printer

1. What printing technology does the Flashforge AD5X use?
The Flashforge AD5X uses FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printing technology with CoreXY kinematics architecture, which provides high precision and speed.

2. How many colors can the Flashforge AD5X print at once?
The Flashforge AD5X can print with four different colors or filament types simultaneously using the Intelligent Filament System (IFS).

3. What filament types does Flashforge AD5X support?
The Flashforge AD5X supports PLA, PLA PRO, HS PLA, PLA Matte, PLA Silk, PETG, PETG Pro, HS PETG, ASA and TPU 95A filament types, as well as carbon fiber versions.

4. What is the print volume of the Flashforge AD5X?
The Flashforge AD5X has a print volume of 220×220×220 mm, which is enough for most household and small professional projects.

5. How fast is the printing speed of the Flashforge AD5X?
The Flashforge AD5X has a maximum print speed of 600 mm/s with an acceleration of 20.000 mm/s², significantly reducing print times compared to traditional printers.

6. How does the Flashforge AD5X connect to a computer or other devices?
The Flashforge AD5X features USB, WiFi, and Ethernet connectivity, allowing flexible print control from a variety of devices.

7. What software is Flashforge AD5X compatible with?
The Flashforge AD5X is compatible with Orca-Flashforge, FlashPrint 5, Prusa Slicer, Cura and Orca Slicer software, allowing users to work in their familiar environment.

8. Does the Flashforge AD5X have automatic bed leveling?
Yes, the Flashforge AD5X has automatic bed leveling, which makes setup easier and increases printing success rates.

9. What happens to the Flashforge AD5X printer in the event of a power outage?
The Flashforge AD5X has a power failure resume function with a 99% success rate, meaning the printer is highly likely to be able to continue working where it left off.

10. What is the weight and packaging size of the Flashforge AD5X?
The Flashforge AD5X weighs 11 kg, while the packaging weighs 14,2 kg. The package dimensions are 44×44×51,5 cm, which allows for easy transport.