FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D Printer Review: Is It the New King of High-Speed Multi-Color?

The desktop 3D printing market is rapidly evolving, with a focus on speed and ease of use. At the forefront of this evolution is the FLASHFORGE AD5X, a multi-color FDM printer that aims to deliver high-speed performance and user-friendly features at a competitive price point. Following in the footsteps of its successful Adventurer series, the AD5X introduces an Intelligent Filament System (IFS) for four-color printing. But does it live up to the hype? This review dives into the pros and cons to help you decide.

Pros: 

• Exceptional Multi-Color Printing: The standout feature of the AD5X is its ability to print with up to four colors using its IFS system. Unlike some competitors, it handles flexible materials like TPU multi-color right out of the box, which is a major advantage for creating complex, multi-material designs. Its core-XY structure and a nozzle-cleaning process during color changes ensure clean, vibrant results with minimal color bleeding.
• High-Speed Performance: The printer is capable of a maximum travel speed of up to $600\text{mm/s}$ and a standard printing speed of $300\text{mm/s}$. This allows for significantly faster print times compared to older, traditional FDM printers, making it a true workhorse for both hobbyists and small businesses.
• User-Friendly Experience: Designed for simplicity, the AD5X offers a genuinely hassle-free setup that can be completed in as little as 10 minutes. It features a full-auto bed leveling system, a quick-release nozzle for easy maintenance, and power-loss recovery, ensuring a high print success rate. The intuitive 4.3-inch touchscreen and the included Orca-Flashforge slicer further simplify the process.
• Robust and Reliable Design: The AD5X utilizes a Core-XY structure, which helps to reduce vibrations and maintain consistent print quality at high speeds. This rigid design, coupled with its proven kinematics, makes it a reliable machine built for continuous use.
• Competitive Price Point: Priced affordably, the AD5X offers advanced features like high-speed and multi-color printing that are often found on more expensive machines, making it a strong value proposition.

Cons: Waste, Noise, and Open-Frame Limitations

• Excessive Filament Purging: A significant drawback, especially for multi-color prints, is the amount of filament waste generated during color changes. While this is a common issue with single-nozzle multi-color systems, some users report the AD5X purges an excessive amount, which can be wasteful and frustrating.
• Noisy Operation: Due to its open-frame design, the AD5X can be louder than its enclosed counterparts, with noise levels averaging around $72\text{dB}$ and peaking at $80\text{dB}$. This can be a concern if the printer is located in a shared living or work space.
• Limited Material Compatibility: The open-frame design, while reducing the printer's cost, makes it challenging to print with materials that require a controlled, heated environment, such as ASA or ABS, without purchasing an additional enclosure kit.
• Additional Costs for Accessories: Essential features that some competitors include as standard, such as a camera for remote monitoring, are optional add-ons for the AD5X, increasing the total cost of ownership.

User Reviews:

The Flashforge AD5X printer has garnered a largely positive reception for its impressive print quality and user-friendly setup, especially praised by those experienced with brands like Bambu and Creality. Users appreciate the straightforward installation, with effective auto-calibration and bed leveling. While some found the unenclosed design a bit noisy, others noted the fan's quiet operation and seamless software performance. Many consider it a reliable machine, with one user owning multiple units. Suggestions for improvement included adding a camera and enhancing access to the filament feeder, but these did not significantly impact overall satisfaction. The company's email support has been described as excellent.

In contrast, 1-star reviews reveal serious concerns, including damages upon delivery, critical component failures, and design flaws, such as an unresponsive touchscreen and inconsistent first-layer adhesion. Some users labeled the printer as "janky" or a "waste of money," and reported disappointing experiences with customer support, which contrasted sharply with the positive feedback from others. This divergence indicates that while many users enjoy a flawless experience with the AD5X, a notable minority encounter significant challenges.

Click below to read about Flashforge AD5X printer on Amazon.

FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D Printer with IFS

FLASHFORGE AD5X Multi-Color 3D Printer

FLASHFORGE AD5X 3D Printer Multicolor 3D Printer with IFS (Unofficial Seller)

FLASHFORGE AD5X 3D Printer Multicolor 3D Printing (Unofficial Seller)

Click here to read about other 3D printers that I have reviewed. 

FAQ:

Q: Does the AD5X have a built-in camera for remote monitoring?

A: The Flashforge AD5X does not come with a built-in camera for remote monitoring. However, there is an optional camera kit available that can be integrated with the control system for this purpose. This camera kit enables you to view the printing process in real-time, helping you identify any issues and reduce print failures.Q

Q: How much filament waste is generated with multi-color printing on the AD5X?

A: Multi-color printing on the Flashforge AD5X produces a significant amount of filament waste due to the purging process needed for clean color transitions. The amount of waste generated largely depends on the number of color changes rather than the number of colors used. Users have reported that the waste can sometimes exceed the weight of the final printed model. However, this waste can be minimized by adjusting slicer settings to purge into other models on the build plate instead of using a dedicated purge tower.

Q: What is the best filament to use with the FLASHFORGE AD5X?

A: This printer supports a wide range of filament types, including PLA, PLA PRO, HS PLA, PLA Matte, PLA Silk, TPU, PETG, PETG Pro, and ASA. It is also open to third-party brands, providing greater freedom and flexibility for various printing projects.