Build Volume | 220 x 220 x 250 mm |
Layer Resolution Low | 400 microns |
Layer Resolution High | 100 microns |
Nozzle Diameter | 0.4 |
Filament Diameter | 1.75 |
Print Speed Min. | 30 mm/s |
Print Speed Max. | 180 mm/s |
Brand | Voxelab |
Machine type | 3D Printer |
Technology | FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) |
Materials | PLA, ABS, Nylon, Wood PLA, Rubber-like (TPU), PETG , Nylon 6/69 |
Website | |
Average Price | $169.00 |
Aquila is an FDM 3D printer from Voxelab, a subsidiary brand of Flashforge. The machine is made with an aluminum frame for sturdy printing. The printer is also equipped with a print resuming function, filament auto-feeding and a flexible printing bed. Aquila is shipped almost fully assembled making it quick to start out of the box.
On first glance, this machine doesn’t stand out that much – such sleek design and specs, resembling the Ender 3, are nowadays more common on 3D printers market. And the brand itself is a new player with Aquila being its first machine.
In comparison to other similar machines, Aquila notably has a full-color screen menu and quite 32-but drivers. Though, the machine is not completely silent due to the loud cooling fans and extruder noises. A knob-like XY tensioner is another pleasant little detail missing from some other competitor machines. The printing base is made with textured glass, resembling Anycubic’s ultrabase, allowing for easier removal of printed parts.
Though having no surprising new features, Aquila is a strong competitor to Ender 3 and Mega Zero on market for affordable FDM printers. It works well and provides fine quality, though some upgrades (interchangeable with Ender 3 V2) won’t hurt to reduce excess wobbling and increase quality.
On the flip side, there are some issues with thermal insulation and protection of the bed and wiring. Additionally, it seems that the manufacturer cut corners here and there. For example, advertised auto-feeding is nowhere to be found, and the screws on the heated bed go beyond the aluminum plate, reducing its effectiveness.