Published on Wed May 18 2022 12:41:08 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

FLSUN Q5: A Deep Dive into this Budget-Friendly Delta 3D Printer

The FLSUN Q5 is a compact and affordable delta 3D printer that has garnered attention for its ease of use, impressive printing speeds, and overall value. This article offers a comprehensive look at the FLSUN Q5, covering its specifications, offering practical usage tips, and evaluating its strengths and weaknesses.

FLSUN Q5: Unveiling the Specs

Before we dive into the user experience, let’s examine the technical specifications that define the FLSUN Q5:

• Printing Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
• Build Volume: Ø200mm x 200mm (cylindrical)
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4mm (standard, replaceable)
• Layer Resolution: 0.05 - 0.3mm
• Printing Speed: 60 - 120mm/s (recommended), up to 150mm/s
• Filament Diameter: 1.75mm
• Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, Wood
• Bed Type: Heated bed
• Bed Leveling: Automatic leveling
• Frame Material: Aluminum profiles and acrylic
• Connectivity: Micro SD card, USB
• Power Supply: 24V
• Display: Touchscreen
• Firmware: Marlin (customized)
• Machine Size: 300mm x 340mm x 680mm
• Machine Weight: 7.3 kg

Getting Started with the FLSUN Q5: Practical Tips

The FLSUN Q5 is known for being relatively easy to set up and use, especially for beginners. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth printing experience:

1. Assembly: While mostly pre-assembled, some assembly is required. Carefully follow the included instructions. Pay close attention to cable management to avoid interference with the moving arms.

2. Bed Leveling: The automatic bed leveling is a key feature. Run the auto-leveling procedure before every print, or at least before any critical print, to ensure optimal first layer adhesion. Ensure the print bed is clean and free of debris before leveling.

3. Filament Loading: Insert the filament straight and carefully through the filament sensor. If you encounter resistance, double-check that the extruder gears are properly aligned and that the filament is not bent or damaged.

4. Slicing Settings: Experiment with different slicing software (Cura, Simplify3D, PrusaSlicer) and settings. Start with recommended profiles for your chosen filament type, then fine-tune based on your results. Pay attention to retraction settings to minimize stringing.

5. Adhesion: If you struggle with bed adhesion, try using a glue stick or hairspray on the bed surface. Also, ensure the bed is properly cleaned with isopropyl alcohol. A raft or brim can further improve adhesion for tricky prints.

6. Cooling: Proper cooling is crucial, especially for PLA. Make sure the part cooling fan is working correctly and adjust the fan speed in your slicer settings based on the filament and print geometry.

7. Maintenance: Regularly clean the nozzle and bed. Periodically lubricate the linear rails and bearings with appropriate grease. Check belt tension and adjust as needed.

Evaluating the FLSUN Q5: Score Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of the FLSUN Q5 across key performance areas, with each category scored out of 10:

• Print Quality: 7/10 - Good print quality overall, especially for the price, but can be affected by calibration and settings.
• Build Volume: 6/10 - The cylindrical build volume is sufficient for many projects, but can be limiting for larger prints.
• Printing Speed: 9/10 - One of the printer’s strong points; capable of fast printing speeds without significant quality loss.
• Material Compatibility: 7/10 - Prints PLA, PETG, TPU, and Wood reasonably well. More exotic filaments might require more advanced tuning.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8/10 - Auto-leveling works effectively, but proper bed surface preparation is still important.
• Reliability: 7/10 - Generally reliable once properly calibrated and maintained.
• Ease of Use: 8/10 - Relatively easy to set up and use, especially for beginners.
• Firmware and Software: 6/10 - The customized Marlin firmware is functional, but might require upgrades.
• Connectivity Options: 6/10 - Micro SD and USB provide sufficient connectivity for most users.
• Build Quality & Durability: 6/10 - Decent build quality for the price, but some parts may require upgrades over time.
• Noise Level: 7/10 - Relatively quiet during operation compared to some other printers.
• Maintenance Requirements: 7/10 - Requires routine cleaning, lubrication, and belt tensioning.
• Customer Support: 5/10 - Customer support can be inconsistent. Community forums are a valuable resource.
• Upgradeability: 7/10 - Offers options for upgrades such as a better extruder, hotend, or controller board.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 9/10 - Excellent value for the price.

Average Score: 7.13/10

The Bottom Line

The FLSUN Q5 is a solid entry-level delta 3D printer that offers a good balance of affordability, speed, and ease of use. While it may require some initial setup and tuning, it provides a positive printing experience and a good value for its price point. Its fast printing speeds, automatic bed leveling, and compact design make it a compelling choice for hobbyists and beginners looking to enter the world of 3D printing.

Written by Alex