Its design diverges from the conventional 3D printer aesthetic, presenting a sleek, minimalist form factor that would not seem out of place in a modern tech environment. This design choice extends to the user interface, with the M5C forgoing a traditional onboard screen in favor of a mobile app-based control system, which has been highly praised for its user-friendliness and smooth operation.

Despite its streamlined appearance, the printer does not compromise on build volume, offering a generous 235x235x250mm space, which is more than adequate for most printing needs. The inclusion of a direct drive extruder is a notable feature that can enhance printing with flexible materials due to the shorter path between the drive gear and the hotend.

Performance-wise, the M5C is equipped with a hotend that heats quickly, reaching 200°C in 56 seconds and 250°C in 1 minute and 17 seconds, which is commendable. Power efficiency is also a plus, with an idle power draw around 9W, though it can reach around 290W during the heating phase.

In terms of print quality, the M5C delivers mixed results. The speed is impressive, but it comes at the cost of some print quality, as seen with the pre-sliced 3D Benchy test, which exhibited significant ringing patterns and less-than-ideal top layers when printed in Fast mode. However, when the printer is used in Normal mode, the results improve substantially, although some ringing still persists.

The printer's performance with different materials varies. With silk filament, the print quality of overhangs and layers is adequate, but again, ringing artifacts appear on the surface. PETG prints, like the Flexi Fox, show great overall results with almost perfect overhangs, though minor imperfections are still present. A more challenging Torture Toaster model revealed issues with stringing and layer bonding, suggesting the printer may struggle with more complex tasks.

An important aspect to note about the Ankermake M5C is the inclusion of a voltage switch that allows users to toggle between 110V and 220V. This switch is situated at the bottom of the machine, and it is crucial for users to set it to the correct voltage for their region before plugging the machine into the power supply. Failure to do so could potentially damage the printer or pose a safety hazard. This feature ensures compatibility with different regions' power standards, making the M5C versatile for international users, but it also places the onus on the user to ensure the correct setting is applied before operation.

On the software side, while the AnkerMake mobile app is praised, the slicer software is still in beta and currently lacks certain features that would benefit beginners, like automatic model placement to prevent slicing issues. AnkerMake is reportedly developing a fork of the Prusa Slicer, which could address these shortcomings in the future.

As for the drawbacks, one concern is the noise level, particularly from the fans, which can be heard from another room when operating at high settings. Additionally, the mobile app's library of printable models is somewhat limited, though this is expected to improve over time.

In conclusion, the Ankermake M5C shows significant promise with its high-speed printing capabilities and sleek, app-driven user interface. It stands out in a crowded market, particularly for users looking for rapid print times without a steep learning curve. However, it's not without its issues. The print quality can be inconsistent, particularly at higher speeds, and the slicer software is still in development. Noise can also be a factor for users with shared workspaces. Despite these points, for enthusiasts willing to engage with a new take on 3D printing, the M5C presents an intriguing option.