When it comes to 3D printing, choosing the right printer is crucial to getting the best results. Some of the most popular printers on the market are the Ankermake M5 Vs Prusa i3 MK3S+. Both are known for their high-quality prints and reliability, but which one is the better choice for your needs? Today we will take a closer look at these printers and compare them based on their features, performance, and price.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- How to Select a 3D Printer?
- What are the Ankermake M5 and Prusa i3 MK3S+?
- What are the Features of Ankermake M5 and Prusa i3 MK3S+?
- How is the Performance of Ankermake M5 and Prusa i3 MK3S+?
- How is the Price of Ankermake M5 and Prusa i3 MK3S+?
- Which 3D Printer to Buy?
| AnkerMake M5 | Prusa i3 MK3S+ | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 19.7 x 17.2 x 18.5 inches | 19.6 x 21.6 x 15.7 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 32 pounds | 24.03 pounds |
| Shop now at Amazon | Check price | Check price |
Selecting a 3D Printer
Choosing a 3D printer can be a daunting task with numerous options available in the market. Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a 3D printer:
- Print Quality: Look for a printer that can produce high-quality prints with fine details and smooth surfaces. Consider the printer’s resolution, layer height, and print speed as they can affect the overall print quality.
- Print Volume: Consider the size of the objects you plan to print and choose a printer with a large enough print volume to accommodate your needs. Print volume refers to the maximum size of the object that can be printed in the printer.
- Printer Type: There are several types of 3D printers available, including Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) or Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), Digital Light Processing (DLP), and others. Each type has its own advantages and limitations, so choose the one that best suits your requirements in terms of print quality, materials, and budget.
- Materials Compatibility: Consider the type of materials you plan to print with, as not all printers support all materials. Some printers are designed to work with specific materials, while others offer more versatility in terms of material compatibility. Common materials used in 3D printing include PLA, ABS, PETG, nylon, and others.
About Ankermake M5 and Prusa i3 MK3S+
Earlier this year, Anker launched a highly successful Kickstarter campaign for their AnkerMake M5 3D printer. With over 11,313 backers, they raised more than 8 million USD. They have now begun fulfilling their promises by shipping M5 units to their Kickstarter backers.
AnkerMake M5 was promoted as one of the fastest, easiest to use, and high-quality 3D printers during the campaign, and it has delivered on these promises. The printer features AI monitoring that can identify misprints or errors, and if needed, pause the printing process until the user resolves the issue. This allows for almost continuous printing at a speed of 250 mm/s, made possible by high acceleration values and a robust direct drive extruder that ensures structural stability.
On the other hand, the Prusa i3 MK3S is a desktop-sized Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3D printer, which uses a process called additive manufacturing to create three-dimensional objects by layering molten plastic material onto a build plate. It has a build volume of 250mm x 210mm x 200mm, which allows for printing a wide range of objects, from small trinkets to larger functional parts. The Prusa i3 MK3S is known for its high print quality, reliability, and ease of use. It comes with a number of advanced features, including automatic bed leveling, a filament sensor that detects when the filament runs out, a removable magnetic build plate, and a robust frame design. Read also: Ankermake M5 Vs Ender 3 S1 Pro here.
Features
The Ankermake M5 is a sleek, modern-looking printer that comes with a 4.3-inch color touch screen, which makes it easy to control and operate. It has a build volume of 235×235×250 mm and a nozzle diameter of 0.4 mm. It also features a filament run-out sensor, a resume printing function, and a built-in power supply. Additionally, the Ankermake M5 is compatible with a wide range of filaments, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and TPU.
On the other hand, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a reliable and highly acclaimed printer with outstanding features and performance. It comes with a small backlit display and has a build volume of 250 x 210 x 210 mm. The Prusa i3 MK3S+ features a nozzle diameter of 0.4 mm, a filament sensor, and a power panic function, which allows the printer to recover from power outages. The printer is also compatible with various filaments, including PLA, ABS, PETG, Nylon, and more.
Performance
When it comes to performance, both the Ankermake M5 and the Prusa i3 MK3S+ deliver high-quality prints with excellent accuracy and precision. However, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ has an edge over the Ankermake M5 in terms of print speed. The M5 is capable of printing at a speed of up to 250 mm/s, while the i3 MK3S+ has a maximum print speed of 200 mm/s. On the other hand, the Prusa i3 MK3S+ is significantly quieter than the Ankermake M5, making it an ideal choice for use in quiet environments. Check our other comparison in: Flashforge Creator Pro 2 Vs Flashforge Dreamer here.
Price
When it comes to price, the Ankermake M5 is a more affordable option compared to the Prusa i3 MK3S+. The Ankermake M5 is priced at around $799, while the Prusa i3 MK3S+ costs around $760. However, it is important to note that both models are high-end printers with advanced features and superior performance, making it worth the extra investment for professional use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Ankermake M5 and the Prusa i3 MK3S+ are excellent printers with their unique features and advantages. The Ankermake M5 is an affordable option that is easy to use and is suitable for beginners and hobbyists. The Prusa i3 MK3S+, on the other hand, is an older printer, but proven to be solid and works well for most people due to its advanced features and superior performance. Overall, the choice between the two depends on your needs and budget.