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ANET A8 v2
About the ANET A8 v2
The Anet A8 V2 is a barebones 3D printer designed to maximize affordability. There’s nothing on the 220 x 220 x 250 Bowden system to phone home about feature-wise, and the low price isn’t especially competitive considering some of what’s missing. It’s still a Cartesian-XZ-head printer with a 220 x 220 x 250 mm build volume, but it’s now a familiar Ender 3-like design using V-slot wheels instead of the previous i3-like linear rod assembly that was featured on the A8 and larger A8 Plus. It contains a 32-bit mainboard and a 2.8” LCD touchscreen UI. Although the A8 V2 does not contain a heated print bed, we see it touted as an energy-saving “feature”, so you’ll only be able to print with PLA on this system. Complexity of assembly can be an issue and some users have reported issues with build quality.
Benefits of the ANET A8 v2
Has touch screen - having a touch screen isn't a deal-maker or breaker, but it is a convenient feature that makes it easier to navigate the interface when you are printing files and configuring 3D printing settings.
Sub-200 Price tag - This printer is one of the most affordable on the market, and sells for under $200. While this low price means you won't be getting the most premium features, you can still get a lot out of these machines if you are willing to put up with some missing quality of life features, and get your hands dirty with more frequent repairs.
Affordable - This printer does not include a lot of frills, but offers a good experience for a low price point. While this low price means you won't be getting the most premium features, you can still get a lot out of these machines if you are willing to put up with some missing quality of life features.
Linear rail motion system - Linear rails provide added stability to the moving parts of the printer, allowing higher printing speeds without sacrificing quality. Keep in mind that the most important factor to consider when optimizing for print speed is the flow rate of filament, which depends on the hot end and nozzle size moreso than the motion system.
Disadvantages to consider
Manual bed levelling - This printer requires you to to adjust the bed level manually using nuts on each corner of the print bed. Once you have calibrated the bed leveling, you may need to adjust the levelling knobs periodically to ensure good first layer adhesion to the print bed.
Budget components - In order to keep costs down, this 3D printer uses more plastic pieces and other lower quality components
Moderately difficult assembly - This 3D printer is shipped partially unassembled, and will require more time to put together. This can be a good learning experience to better understand how the printer works, but can be a challenge especially if you are new to 3D printing.
Where to buy the ANET A8 v2
Brand Summary: ANET
Anet is a popular choice for hobbyists and beginners seeking affordable entry into the world of 3D printing. Their claim to fame lies in offering some of the most budget-friendly FDM printers on the market. However, this affordability comes with a caveat – Anet printers often require some tinkering and user modifications to achieve good quality prints. While Anet itself offers email support, the real strength lies in the brand's large and active online community. Here, users can find a wealth of troubleshooting guides, printer modifications, and shared knowledge from other enthusiasts. This collaborative environment is invaluable for overcoming challenges and unlocking the full potential of your Anet printer. However, it's important to be realistic about your expectations. Anet printers are ideal for tinkerers and budget-conscious beginners who are comfortable with a steeper learning curve. If user-friendliness, extensive manufacturer support, or a guaranteed out-of-the-box experience are your top priorities, then other brands like Creality might be a better fit. But for those willing to invest time in research and troubleshooting, Anet offers a valuable entry point into the exciting world of 3D printing.
Pros
- Has touch screen
- Sub-200 Price tag
- Affordable
- Linear rail motion system
Cons
- Manual bed levelling
- Budget components
- Moderately difficult assembly
Printer Comparisons
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