Published on Thu Dec 15 2022 02:32:20 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) by Alex

The AnkerMake M7: A Deep Dive into Speed, Precision, and User Experience

The AnkerMake M7 has burst onto the 3D printing scene promising a blend of speed, precision, and user-friendly features. Anker, a company known for its consumer electronics, aims to disrupt the market with this offering. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the M7, covering its specifications, usage tips, and a detailed evaluation across key aspects of its performance.

AnkerMake M7: Key Specifications

• Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)
• Build Volume: 300 x 300 x 300 mm (11.8 x 11.8 x 11.8 inches)
• Print Speed: Up to 500 mm/s
• Maximum Acceleration: 40,000 mm/s²
• Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (replaceable)
• Layer Resolution: 0.05-0.3 mm
• Filament Diameter: 1.75 mm
• Supported Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, Nylon, Carbon Fiber
• Nozzle Temperature: Up to 300°C
• Bed Temperature: Up to 100°C
• Bed Leveling: Automatic, 49-point auto-leveling
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB
• User Interface: 7-inch touchscreen
• Camera: Integrated AI-powered camera for remote monitoring and error detection
• Firmware: AnkerMake OS
• Slicing Software: AnkerMake Slicer (customized Cura)
• Frame: All-metal construction
• Dimensions: 525 x 525 x 520 mm (20.7 x 20.7 x 20.5 inches)
• Weight: Approximately 20 kg (44 lbs)
• Power Supply: 400W

Getting Started: Unboxing and Setup

The AnkerMake M7 arrives well-packaged and requires minimal assembly. Expect the following in the box:

• AnkerMake M7 3D Printer
• Print bed
• Spool holder
• Power cord
• USB drive with documentation and software
• Basic tool kit (wrenches, nozzles, filament snips, etc.)
• Sample filament

The initial setup involves:

1. Attaching the spool holder.
2. Connecting the power cord.
3. Powering on the printer.
4. Following the on-screen prompts to complete the initial configuration, including Wi-Fi setup.
5. Performing the automatic bed leveling process.
6. Loading filament.

Usage Tips and Best Practices

To maximize the AnkerMake M7’s performance and print quality, consider the following:

• Bed Adhesion is Key: While the M7 boasts automatic bed leveling, ensuring a clean and level print bed is crucial. Clean the bed regularly with isopropyl alcohol. Consider using a bed adhesive (glue stick, hairspray) for materials prone to warping.
• Filament Management: Store filament in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption. If filament has been exposed to moisture, consider drying it before use.
• Slicer Settings: Experiment with slicer settings to optimize print quality and speed. Pay close attention to layer height, infill density, print speed, and temperature settings. The AnkerMake Slicer, based on Cura, provides a good starting point.
• Temperature Control: Ensure the nozzle and bed temperatures are appropriate for the chosen filament. Refer to the filament manufacturer’s recommendations. For ABS and ASA, consider printing in an enclosure to minimize warping.
• Camera Monitoring: Utilize the integrated camera to monitor prints remotely and detect potential issues. The AI-powered error detection can alert you to problems like spaghetti-ing before they become major catastrophes.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep the printer clean and lubricated. Periodically check and tighten belts and screws. Clean the nozzle and replace it as needed.
• Firmware Updates: Stay up-to-date with the latest firmware releases to benefit from bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features.

Performance Evaluation

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the AnkerMake M7’s performance across key categories, rated out of 10:

• Print Quality: 9/10 – Delivers excellent print quality with fine details and smooth surfaces, especially at moderate speeds.
• Build Volume: 8/10 – The 300 x 300 x 300 mm build volume offers ample space for most projects.
• Printing Speed: 10/10 – The M7’s headline feature lives up to the hype. It achieves impressive print speeds without sacrificing print quality significantly.
• Material Compatibility: 9/10 – Supports a wide range of materials, including PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, Nylon, and even carbon fiber-filled filaments.
• Bed Adhesion & Leveling: 8/10 – The automatic bed leveling system works well, but bed adhesion can be finicky with some materials.
• Reliability: 8/10 – Generally reliable, but occasional hiccups can occur, especially at very high speeds.
• Ease of Use: 9/10 – The touchscreen interface and user-friendly software make the M7 relatively easy to operate, even for beginners.
• Firmware and Software: 8/10 – The AnkerMake OS and slicer are well-designed and intuitive.
• Connectivity Options: 7/10 – Wi-Fi and USB connectivity are standard, but Ethernet would be a welcome addition.
• Build Quality & Durability: 9/10 – The all-metal frame and robust construction contribute to the printer’s durability.
• Noise Level: 7/10 – While not overly loud, the M7 is not silent. The fans and stepper motors generate some noise during operation.
• Maintenance Requirements: 7/10 – Regular cleaning, lubrication, and occasional nozzle replacements are necessary.
• Customer Support: 7/10 – Anker’s customer support is generally responsive, but response times can vary.
• Upgradeability: 6/10 – Upgrade options are currently limited.
• Price to Performance Ratio: 8/10 – The M7 offers a compelling value proposition, considering its speed, features, and print quality.

Overall Average Score: 7.93/10

Conclusion

The AnkerMake M7 is a compelling 3D printer that delivers on its promise of speed and precision. Its user-friendly interface, automatic bed leveling, and integrated camera make it accessible to beginners, while its wide material compatibility and robust construction appeal to more experienced users. While not without its minor drawbacks, the M7’s overall performance and value proposition make it a strong contender in the 3D printing market.

Written by Alex