FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro Review: Best For Creatives!

The Flashforge 3D Printer Creator Pro was designed with the intention to produce a high quality printer for a reasonably low price.

And we’re damn sure that they’ve succeeded.

This printer is loved for its solidity that improves the quality of 3D printing, its design that makes it easy to keep an eye on projects, and the ability to use multiple filaments in one print. Plus, the size of the work space means that you can print almost any design without needing to cut it in half.

It’s a real craftsman’s 3D printer.

But is it the right machine for you?

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty to see what makes it exceptional – and where it falls flat.

Flashforge 3D Printer Creator Pro: The Details

Specs

• Weight: 24.2 pounds
• Dimensions: 22.1 x 19.3 x 16.3 inches
• Print Dimensions: 225 x 145 x 150 mm
• Filament Types: ABS, PLA, and Exotics
• Ready to Print?: No
• Compatibility: Windows, Mac OSX and Linux
• Software: FlashPrint
• Warranty: Standard 90 days manufacturer’s warranty

How Does it Work

Check out this complete guide to 3D printing if you want a general primer.

Most 3D printers use FDM, or Fused Deposition Modeling, that makes the filament you’re using easier to shape.

The process begins with the analysis of the STL-file you have selected, which orients your chosen model into the best position for construction.

Then, the small molten strings of the filament are expelled through the nozzle, which harden immediately when coming into contact with the air. By layering these methodically, the machine prints your chosen design.

FDM has a few limitations, none of which will pose a problem for the at-home printer. Unsupported structures, for example, are impossible to print out, though this is likely not something you will experience a need for any time soon.

Many people love the FlashForge Creator Pro thanks to the amount of different filaments that you can use with it, though it’s recommended you thoroughly research how these are best used. Taking a quick peek at online community forums can save you some trouble later down the road.

3D printing has a learning curve, even for experienced users. As with any machine, taking the time to learn what its peculiarities are will pay off in the long run. By learning what materials you prefer, future prints are sure to become more successful.

Because of the large printing space, this 3D printer can be used to print, among other things, various models of preferred series, new parts to upgrade your printer with, or other crafty accessories.

Accessories

The Flashforge 3D Printer Creator Pro comes with all the basics included, making it possible to give the machine a test run as soon as you’ve got it set up.

• The Creator-Pro Dual Extruder
• Two spool holders
• Two spools of filament, one kilogram each with randomly selected colors
• Two spare blue platform stickers
• Two filament guide tubes
• Screw driver, screws and an Allen wrench
• Two spare Teflon tubes
• Power supply cable
• USB cable
• Injected PC top cover
• One 4GB SD card which contains the added software, test sample files and the operation manual
• The Flashprint software included is compatible with Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux

FlashForge Creator Pro Features

Filaments

Both PLA and ABS filament are recommended for use with this printer, giving you quite a bit of leeway in your preferred materials. The technology can handle other materials too, but it is highly recommended you do your research beforehand.

PLA and ABS are available in many colors and are the preferred material for 3D printers in general, and should give you plenty of options to keep you entertained for a long time.

Dual Extruders

Twice the extruders, more than twice the fun.

Having two extruders available means you’re able to work with two different colors or materials at the same time, and this makes your prints that more amazing.

We love having this extra creative freedom with the FlashForge Creator Pro!

Metal Casing

The metal casing of the printer’s body is an improvement on the earlier models from FlashForge.

The added stability reduces the vibrations generated during printing, which in turn improves results. A lot of people also believe this makes the printer quieter in comparison to its predecessors.

PC Top Cover

The PC top cover has been made in one piece – again, something which was improved on in comparison with older models. The one piece design reduces noise levels somewhat, but more importantly, it reduces heat loss.

Acrylic Front Panel

With 3D printing, it’s important to be able to keep an eye on your print.

Especially when you’re using a machine for the first few times, since a little hitch in the process can ruin your print and waste the filament.

The front panel on the Creator Pro is wide and clear, letting you keep a steady eye on the newest print. And, to be honest, it’s sure to entertain any guests you have over at the moment.

High Computer Compatibility

Since this printer works with Windows, Mac OSX, and Linux, there’s a pretty high chance you’ll be able to use this printer.

And if you decide to change operating systems in the future, this printer won’t be holding you back.

Free FlashPrint Software

Included with your printer purchase is the FlashPrint slicing software.

There’s a small learning curve to mastering it, but there’s no doubt that it’s a highly sophisticated and powerful program. We’re looking forward to getting more involved with it.

Large Print Space

Can you get printers with a bigger print space? Probably, but those might be more suitable for big business.

For hobbyists and people who need to print out the occasional spare part, the Flashforge Creator Pro offers an ample amount of space for printing. And to sweeten the deal, layer resolution varies between a 100 and 400 microns.

Print Speed

The print speed in general is moderate to fast, though much of this depends on the complexity and size of your printout.

FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro Review

The Positives

Excellent Print Quality

One thing’s for sure: the FlashForge Creator Pro is a reliable workhorse, that consistently produces high quality 3D prints, with little tinkering needed from the user.

We’ve only experimented using ABS filaments for now, but we hear good reports from people using a variety of other materials with this model — it’s nicely versatile.

Precise Z Axis Movement

A quick way to spot the sophistication level of a 3D printer is to check out the design — and no, we’re not talking about the decoration. We’re talking about build quality.

It’s clear that plenty of thought and experience has gone into the FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro — the surface is completely flat thanks to the thick, aviation level aluminium plate which ensures that it will not be warped, even at high temperatures.

Plus, it guarantees precise Z axis movement — i.e. the most accurate prints — thanks to the strong metal platform support and 10mm guide rod.

Large Workspace

Perhaps the biggest selling point of this 3D printer is the large print area on offer.

It’s print dimensions are a maximum of 225 x 145 x 150 mm, so you can really get your teeth into some bigger projects than many at-home printers.

Take a look at it taking on a huge castle design:

Durable and Well Built

Aside from the inner design of the printer being sophisticated, it’s clear from the outset that this is a well made machine.

It has a full metal casing, which is incredible durable and stable. The inner chamber is well enclosed meaning ultimate protection for your model during the printing process.

Versatile

Not only is it versatile in terms of the amount of material it can work with, but the dual extruder means that you can work with multiple color filaments at once!

For crafters and creators in general, this is a huge benefit of the FlashForge over its less versatile competitors.

Excellent Customer Support

3D printing is still a relatively new industry and there’s not quite so much online support available as there are in other more established crafts and industries. And, as such, there’s a need for a reliable support network.

Thankfully, FlashForge offer lifetime support from their expert technicians, and we’re pleased to report that they’re very helpful and efficient regardless of the issue you may be experiencing.

Upload Using SD Files

It’s super easy to upload your designs to the printer thanks to the SD card drive.

The Negatives

DIY Set-Up

If you’re a first-time 3D printer, or have two left hands, it’s not a bad idea to have someone around who doesn’t mind helping out when you’re putting this printer together as it does require some assembly, and some adjustment to the voltage if you’re in the US.

Amazon do offer installation for a fee with the Creator Pro, and we would recommend you opt for this if your budget allows and you’re not too electrical-confident.

Here’s a video on the set-up process:

A Bit of a Learning Curve

The Flashforge 3D Printer Creator Pro is a machine that offers a multitude of options and possibilities, but that does entail a bit of a learning process.

The dual extruders might give beginning users a bit of a headache at first, so keeping an eye on them while you’re working isn’t a bad idea.

Most 3D printers run into a few snags, which are common across most models, so consider them a badge of honor for joining the club.

Once you have mastered this learning curve, it’s relatively easy to use so we wouldn’t say it’s off limits to beginners. Just start slow!

Overall Verdict

The FlashForge Creator Pro 3D Printer is a truly high quality product and exceptionally good value considering its many merits and versatility.

It has two extruders, sports an impeccable design and is sturdy — all resulting in very high quality and consistent prints. We’re not surprised at all that it’s given such consistently good reviews.

There is a bit of a learning curve to master at first, especially for 3D printing novices, but generally the user experience is pretty good. Just make sure you ask for help when it comes to installation…

Where to Buy the FlashForge 3D Printer Creator Pro

This is a very popular 3d printer and can be found in numerous stores online.

Here’s a few for starters:

• FlashForge USA ($899)
• 3D Universe ($899)
• 3D Printer Superstore ($1,299)

And, of course, it’s available on Amazon.

Are you tempted to try the FlashForge Creator Pro?