Best CNC Router

A Computer Numerical Control, or CNC router for short, is the name for a computer-controlled cutting machine used for cutting a variety of materials including wood, glass, plastic, metals, and composites to produce carvings, signs, decorations, furniture, moldings, and other DIY products.

Whereas in the past these cutting movements would be guided by hand, with a CNC router they are instead guided by a computer guaranteeing precision and quality. Because the CNC router in operation directly correlates to the efficiency and quality of the product produced, it’s important that factories and producers find a good one.

To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 of the best CNC routers for you to choose from.

CNC Router Reviews

1. Axiom Precision ARPro CNC Machine

The Axiom Precision AutoRoute Pro V5 Series of CNC routers is a professional machine that offers all of the great features of an Axiom machine but adds 4th-axis capability.

It provides powerful electro-spindle performance and rotary machining capability in a compact industrial machine. The V5 Series CNC routers have a full 6” Z travel capacity and a quiet but powerful 3HP electro-spindle with an upgraded liquid cooling system.

Each V5 machine is prewired to accept Axiom’s optional Rotary Kit. It comes with precision ball screws, prismatic guides, a robust steel frame, and an interlocking aluminum table. In addition, the integrated MDF spoil boards give you all the precision you need.

MDF spoil boards can easily be milled flat for a true perpendicular surface to the spindle. There is no need to attach your CNC router to your computer to operate it. Simply transfer your file to the handheld controller via a USB storage device. The handheld RichAuto controller is a powerful, lightweight, and easy-to-use controller with nearly a decade of proven results in demanding applications. Axiom Precision ARPro CNC Machine is available in three footprint options, 24” x 24”, 24” x 36”, and 24” x 48”.

The Axiom Precision ARPro CNC router can be used by almost anyone to create precise metal, wood, and plastic parts with ease. The CNC router is easy to use, no matter the skill level of the user. It does not require any special tools or set up for cutting jobs.

This is one of the best CNC routers that can cut through metals with ease and precision. You can use this CNC router to create a wide variety of parts and pieces for your business or personal projects.

The Axiom Precision ARPro CNC router is lightweight, easy to transport, and can be used in a variety of settings.

Pros:

• Heavy-duty interlocking aluminum table
• 4-AXIS ready with optional rotary kit accessory
• No computer needed
• Industrial quality
• Life support

Cons:

• The professional industrial quality and life support come at a price. A very expensive model

2. CNC Piranha FX

The CNC Piranha FX is the base model CNC router produced by Next Wave Automation, but don’t be put off by its modest price tag. The CNC Piranha offers nearly all of the same features as some of the most expensive CNC routers on the market just in a smaller, slightly less rigid structure.

If you’re working with softer materials or are looking for an entry-level product then the CNC Piranha ticks all the boxes whilst not breaking the bank. With a 12-inch by 18-inch table, this CNC router is perfect for precision engravings and smaller-scale projects and can neatly fit on the end of even a small workbench whilst still offering a good range of X, Y, and Z travel.

The CNC wood router is controlled by an impressive touch screen controller, best used with a stylus, and for those new to design and engraving, the CNC Piranha FX also comes with VCarve Desktop V8 Design Software which is compatible with Windows PC’s and a Vector Art-3-D Sampler Pack helping you get up and running straight away.

CNC Piranha FX is perfect for those looking to use a machine that can handle medium volume production runs, but also the demands of high mix, short-run applications.

The router provides you with more flexibility than ever before in terms of accuracy and speed. Its robust design enables consistent performance throughout the complete machining cycle.

The design of this machine means that it can be used in open spaces for quick setup and tool changes.

This machine is ideal to use in offices, engineering workshops, and design studios. It also provides the best of both worlds; high-speed machining capabilities with flexibility for short-run production products.

It is one of the best CNC routers that can be used for a wide range of applications, from drilling to pocket milling. Its user-friendly design means that whether you are an experienced machinist or just starting out, the Piranha FX is easy to use and will provide consistent results every time.

Overall the CNC Piranha FX is a solid-looking piece of kit packing a small but mighty punch at a reasonable price and can be mastered relatively easily by complete CNC novices – definitely one to consider for those looking to take their projects to the next level.

Pros:

• Great accuracy and detail 
• Excellent software
• Once you learn the software it is loaded with unlimited possibilities
• Delivered fully assembled
• Durable and sturdy machine

Cons:

• Horrible instructions that do not have setup info
• Router does not fit the collar

3. BobsCNC E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit

For students and beginners, BobsCNC E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit is an affordable CNC solution. Coming in pieces the BobsCNC E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit is self-assembled at home, taking most users a day or so to complete, this not only helps to keep the cost of the machine down but also teaches the new owner the inner workings of the machine which greatly benefits their understanding.

Despite being self-assembled, made of wood, and also being one of the most cost-effective CNC routers on the market, the E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit surpasses expectations when it comes to the rigidity of its casing and the quality of the work it can produce.

The E4 CNC router comes with the Dewalt 660 router and Arduino-based microprocessor and requires a connection with a computer that can be obtained through a USB connection.

With a 24-inch by 24-inch by 3-inch cutting area and a small 30-inch by 38-inch by 19-inch footprint the router is perfect for more petit beginner projects and will not take up too much space on a desk or workspace.

If you’re looking for your first CNC router and like the idea of assembling your first machine yourself then the E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit is the machine for you and will teach you all you need to know about getting started with precision cutting.

Alternatively, you can use the BobsCNC E3 CNC router engraver kit. It works just like the BobsCNC E4. It’s a very popular entry-level CNC laser engraving machine in 2021, thanks to its balanced option.

Pros

• Rigid wooden frame
• Accurate
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• Low-quality proximity switches
• Basic programming knowledge required

4. MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018PRO-M 

The MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018 PRO-M CNC router is designed for the absolute beginner and is a great tool for starting CNC learning. It comes with the spindle motor and 5.5W module on Z-axis.

Just remember to remove the module when using the spindle, please remove the module. It features a1G Capacity offline controller for you to control the CNC router without connecting to the computer.

Featuring a new control board, an integrated driver chip, a fixed heat sink, an external fan all housed in a casing to extend the life of the machine. It also has self-contained short circuit protection.

It’s versatile and capable of cutting all types of plastics, woods, acrylics (suitable for spindle milling cutter engraving only), PVCs, and PCBs. MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018 PRO-M can be used on a wide range of projects and materials.

The CNC router is compact enough that it can be placed wherever you want, such as in your garage and workshop. Assembly instructions are provided for easy assembly, and it comes with a 12-month full warranty for your protection and peace of mind.

The MYSWEETy DIY CNC 3018 Pro-M is a fully assembled and ready-to-use desktop cnc router. It is designed to be used for cutting, carving & engraving on materials like wood, plastic, acrylic, plywood, etc. It only requires the user to install some basic components or accessories.

Its small size and fully enclosed structure make it ideal for use in the home environment. It is completely safe to use with no fire or poison hazard.

When using the MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018 PRO-M, you can create your own customized engrave products, write your drawings directly on paper, wood, or plastic boards.

You can even design and cut out stencils for painting walls. The MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018 PRO-M offers almost the same functions as much more expensive industrial CNC routers. The price is only a fraction of that.

Pros:

• Designed for the absolute beginner
• Offline controller
• New control board
• Versatile and capable of cutting all types of plastics, woods, acrylics
• Simple assembly

Cons:

• ‘Software’ is a jump drive supposed to help me run the machine was corrupted
• Seriously underpowered so have to make so many passes to complete the project

5. Cenoz Upgrade CNC 3018 Pro

An upgrade on the previous Cenoz CNC 3018 Pro 3-Axis PCB/PVC milling and engraving, and wood router engraver machine. It has a good-sized working area to engrave on plastics, soft aluminum, woods, acrylics, PVC, and PCB of 11.8 x 7 x 1.8 inches.

With intelligent software, the GRBL three-axis control board can be used on Win XP/Win7/Win8/Linux systems. It also supports offline control, with a controller to manually adjust X, Y, Z-axis without connecting to the computer and download files. The Cenoz Upgrade CNC 3018 Pro comes with the latest version control board and GRBL 3 axis control, more control, precision, and power.

Included are an integrated driver chip, external fan, and a fixed heat sink. Also, it also comes with an extension rod. It arrives with all of the components already positioned for quick and easy assembly and setup, only taking approximately 20 minutes to do so. And for any problems or questions, Cenoz has a 24/7 support team to provide professional help. 

Pros:

• Intelligent software
• Offline control way
• Latest control board
• Quick assembly version
• Easy to operate

Cons:

• Supposedly intelligent software is difficult to understand
• Arrived with missing parts

6. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit

The Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit is the ideal choice for the novice or professional hobbyist looking to get into woodworking with a machine that offers an impressive list of features, but which can also be operated right out-of-the-box by anyone who has ever used a computer before.

This powerful router/spindle combo machine almost makes woodworking look easy. With its power and small footprint, you would expect this router to be expensive – it’s not!

The Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit is so complete that even beginners will be able to start producing wonderful projects right away. It features a spindle that will accept a range of different bits, so there’s no need to purchase separate router bits.

The CNC router kit is also compatible with a range of standard tooling and accessories, so it can be used in virtually any shop.

The Genmistu CNC 3018 is an amazing CNC mill which is a better version of the CNC 3918 model. This router comes with a new mounting and it’s good for woodworking and general craft projects. It can work with different materials and open-source software that you can easily operate.

Pros

• Offers very detailed and smooth cuts
• Can operate on various materials
• Easy to use and you don’t have to link it with a computer
• Comes with a 1-year warranty
• Easy to assemble

Cons

• It cannot engrave very hard materials

7. Ortur Laser Master CNC Machine

The Ortur Laser Master is a CNC machine with a laser cutter, engraver, and PC power control. This can be used to manufacture or create unique items for your friends and family. It comes with some software that will allow you to cut messages on wood and some other materials without problems and also engrave them.

This router is also able to cut plastics and do metal engravings with the proper attachments. The Ortur Laser router is easy to use, set up and control. You can use it in your home or office without problems. It comes with a built-in system that allows you to download files with the proper software and control it.

You can use it to cut, engrave or create three-dimensional objects that will be truly unique. This router has a 32-bit motherboard with a good engraving area of 400 x 430 mm.

Since you’ll get it with its advanced firmware, it works smarter, faster, and very accurately. Above all, this router has a laser engraver that stops any movement the moment your computer stops working.

Designed for all types of drill work, engraving, and milling on different materials, this compact machine has an easy-to-operate control unit.

The user simply selects what they want to do using the button panel (e.g. draw a design, engrave or drill). The machine then works out the correct parameters and runs the selected process without any further input from the user.

Pros

• Offers top-notch quality of work
• Easy to use
• Prevents fire when your computer stops working
• Works faster and accurately

Cons

• You must connect it with your computer for easy operation

8. VEVOR CNC 3018-PRO

The Vevor CNC 3018-PRO is a compact, affordable machine that is best for wood carving. It is powered by three axes. It is very sturdy and easy to assemble with all the accessories included in the package, it is ready for use out of the box.

This machine does not only have great features but also benefits from its user-friendly design which will be admired by anyone who needs a router at home or in workshops.

This is a great addition to your shop or home and will allow you the freedom of creating wonderful projects using woods, soft metals like aluminum & copper sheets as well as plastics.

Vevor CNC 3018-Pro comes with high quality which ensures that this machine will give decades of unmatched performance and reliability.
Since Vevor CNC 3018-Pro is completely preassembled, you can get it up and running very quickly. It comes with all the accessories included in the package.

The Vevor CNC 3018-Pro is a good choice for people who either have little to no machine shop experience or if you just want to add another tool to add more options when working with metal, wood, and plastic materials.

This CNC device is set up in a way that makes it easy to use right out of the box. This is great for people with no experience in machine shops because the CNC 3018-PRO does not require any computer knowledge or engineering degrees to operate.

The VEVOR CNC design is very attractive and will fit well with most work areas, unlike older generation machines that look outdated.

Pros

• Easy to use as it is preassembled
• Offers great performance
• User-friendly design
• Versatile usage

Cons

• The lower bearings over the cradle are not good

9. TITOE 3018 PRO CNC ENGRAVER MACHINE

Do you love doing things by yourself? If yes, then the Titoe 3018 Pro is a great fit for you. One reason that makes you love DIY is that it can help you save money on some expensive things.

With the same idea, with this machine, you can engrave almost anything onto different surfaces without having to worry about your budget for buying an expensive commercial vinyl cutter.

Just like any other product, there are pros and cons of this machine. If you are considering this machine for your business, then you should at least know these things before your purchase.

The Titoe 3018 Pro is quite easy to use. It comes with software that has an easy-to-use interface. It also prints out instruction manuals and tutorials on how to operate it conveniently, so you won’t have to worry about which button or lever you should press.

Another good feature of the machine is that it comes with a 3D Engraving function. This can be very useful for creating some interesting designs on almost anything. You do not need to waste your time looking for other generators since you can just use this one tool to finish everything.

Furthermore, TITOE 3018 Pro has its own light source. This means it can project pictures and photos on almost anything without you having to transfer the image from the computer to the machine and vice versa.

This is a great opportunity for any DIY person who likes taking pictures and creating different kinds of designs with their picture collections.

The Titoe 3018 Pro is a little bit small compared to other vinyl cutting machines. With that being said, you can save a lot of space on your desk as this machine does not take up too much room.

Since the cutting head is quite thin, it can cut some thin materials such as paper and fabrics with precision. But of course, this machine is not designed to work too well on such materials. You can use it for creating some small items such as wall decorations, different kinds of envelopes and so on.

Pros

• Easy to set up and use
• Has a sturdy casing
• Has an integrated driver chip
• Delivers great results when engraving plastics, wood, and acrylic

Cons

• It’s quite slow

How Do I Choose The Best CNC Router?

When you start looking for a CNC router machine, it can be hard to know where to begin. With the many machines in the market, choosing the best CNC routers can be overwhelming. However, selecting the best CNC machines starts with understanding your needs. This CNC router buying guide will help you select the best router.

Below are some factors that you need to keep in mind before buying a desktop CNC router.

Size and weight

The size of the CNC router machine will play a big part in what you get out of it. Bigger CNC machines can do more work without having to be taken offline for maintenance, but they are also heavier and harder to transport than smaller machines.

If portability is an important factor in your decision-making, then buy a small unit that has all the features you need.

Drive system available

Find out what drive systems are available on market as well as what types of motor power they use. You may not need this information right away however if you frequently buy accessories then features like servo drives will allow compatibility between CNC router machines.

Another thing you should find out is if the CNC routing drive system has a high-performance motor or one with less speed but more torque. If it doesn’t have enough power then even an extensive list of features will be useless to you, so make sure your machine can handle what you want to do with it.

Available space

It may seem obvious but make sure that the DIY CNC router has enough room around all four sides. This is to ensure that tools can easily move back and forth without hitting any obstructions in their path.

Doable projects require multiple cuts at once running down consecutive parts. For this reason, the CNC machine should have a working area that is wide enough to accommodate this, otherwise, it will slow down production or even become useless. If space is not an issue, you can choose the CNC piranha xl. It has a small working space but it’s very affordable.

Material

Some CNC routers can be used on different materials like copper and aluminum whereas other models will only function efficiently when cutting through one specific material.

A desktop CNC machine that is designed for soft metals will need cooling systems installed to reduce heat build-up during prolonged usage.

Power input

The power requirements of CNC routers are important to consider before purchasing. The power supply will need to be compatible with the machine’s power type. Additionally, check that the power cord has the correct plug for your outlets and ensure it is long enough if required.

It can also be helpful to note whether you have access to an electrical outlet near where you’d like your DIY CNC router machine installed so as not to lose any workspace around it.

Some CNC routers may require multiple phases, so keep this in mind when considering how much equipment you’ll need on hand at all times.

Vacuum pressure

Vacuum pressure is important in a CNC machine because it decides how strongly it holds the materials. Your CNC router needs a strong vacuum system so that it can hold heavy materials as you make the cuts.

Motor System

The motor system of your CNC machine rules out its cutting or spindle speed. For faster cutting processes, always chose a CNC model that has a high motor rating.

Software compatibility

CNC routers are created and run on Mac, Windows, and Linux operating systems. If you’re using Linux or Macbook Pro you have to look at a wireless router that will support Mac OS X. Software will allow users to use routers on their piece of equipment in ways that mimic designs of the routers.

There’s an absolute key requirement that you buy a CNC machine that is compatible with your operating system. If you use Mac operating computers consider buying a router with a Mac operating system compatible with MacOS.

CNC Router Kit or Pre assembled

Sometimes you may want to create some stuff from scratch or tweak things. A CNC router kit is all you need to do this. In situations when you feel too busy to assemble things, go for a pre assembled CNC wood router.

Dust collection

Several vacuum units will maintain their own environment. It’s important for reliable and error-free results. Make sure you choose the right CNC router that shows you how dust collection is performed. What power it will provide dust storage capacities?

CNC router vs CNC machine

Wondering the difference between a CNC router and a CNC machine? A CNC machine is a general term that people use to describe all devices offering functionality controlled by a computer.

These include CNC mills, CNC plasma cutters, CNC routers, 3D printers, and CNC laser engravers. In a nutshell, a CNC router is a CNC machine, but we cannot say that a CNC router is a CNC router.

FAQs About CNC Routers

Here are some frequently asked questions about the best CNC routers.

What’s the meaning of “axis”?
The term “axis” means the number of directions the router can move in. The material router travels within linear axes Y & Z when near the material’s direction. The term axis is also used when referring to a CNC – router. The term “axis” refers to the number of directions the router travels in each of three routes.

What’s a GRB controller?
The GRBL controller is a software type that sends GCode to CNC machines. These controllers are useful as they allow the user to transmit commands from any device.

Are CNC routers worth it?
Yes. They are incredibly powerful machines that have the ability to speed up production exponentially. Customers can now get their products out faster than ever before. Being able to produce parts quickly is a significant advantage in today’s competitive market.

Which CNC machine is best?
The Axiom Precision AutoRoute Pro+ CNC router is the best choice for anyone looking to get into CNC routing! It’s fast and easy to use. It makes beautiful cuts in wood or metal materials.

Whether you’re looking to make something small like a speaker stand or large cabinets – the Axiom precision CNC router has got all of your needs covered! It’s a great CNC routing tool and it works perfectly.

With its easy setup and smooth operation, anyone who tries out this CNC router machine will see how accurate it really is.

How long can a CNC router last?
The lifespan of a CNC router is affected by many factors. These are the quality of your CNC router and materials.

When you purchase an industrial CNC router for your business or company it’s important to consider the costs involved in operating that equipment over time as well as its initial price tag. The CNC router can also last longer if you maintain it properly.

What is the best CNC router for schools?
The Apprentice 404 is the best CNC Router for schools in the market today. It’s powerful yet easy to use and maintain with its simple design capabilities. This router will give you years of trouble-free operation guaranteed.

To further compliment this fantastic CNC router is its robust design construction using a heavy-duty steel plate. This makes it completely dust-free when not in use due to its sealed cabinet enclosure keeping everything clean and tidy especially if used outdoors.

However, it can also be used indoors too without any fuss whatsoever. It cannot rust over time like other CNC routers in its class.

Which is the best CNC router for beginners?
Beginners can use the BobsCNC Evolution 4 as it offers excellent machine learning features for beginner and pro users. The BobCNC is a fully capable router that works across non-metallic materials and produces almost every product.

What can you do with a desktop CNC router?
A desktop CNC router is a small-scale, personal fabrication tool that can be used in many creative ways in one’s garage, home, or business. Although it does not replace large-scale fabrication equipment, it still opens many possibilities in the world of manufacturing.

A desktop CNC router can do many things.

1. You can create shapes that would otherwise be difficult or impossible to cut out by hand
2. You can cut out shapes in wood or aluminum with relative ease; cutting these kinds of materials requires an extremely sharp bit and lots of power
3. You can cut out shapes in plastic with a bit more difficulty; cutting plastics requires a sharp bit and less power, but still far more than is required by wood or aluminum
4. You can use a wide array of bits to cut different kinds of shapes depending on the project
5. You can cut out the same shape on different kinds of materials and achieve very different results
6. You can make shapes with widths that are too small for manual cutting
7. You can make things like engravings, relief carvings, etc.

Conclusion

For those on a budget or those who are just beginning their CNC journey then look no further than the BobsCNC E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit. The self-assembly aspect of this kit is a great way to learn more about how CNC routers work and at the end of it, you will have created a good quality machine from which to learn on.

The smaller cutting area and compact footprint of the BobsCNC E4 CNC Router Engraver Kit make it perfect for keeping in the house or in a garage space whilst its cutting area is still adequately sized for most starter projects. With rave reviews on Amazon and a great customer service team this CNC router is built to please and that’s why it receives our recommendation as the best CNC router for those on a budget.

For those looking for superior cutting quality or seeking to set up a CNC-based business, then the Axiom Precision AutoRoute 8 Pro+ is well worth the investment and tops our list as the best premier CNC router. With three footprint sizes available, the Axiom Precision AutoRoute 8 Pro+ can handle a wide variety of projects in a number of materials and has the capability to produce professional quality work.

Although it comes with a much higher price tag than the other CNC routers on our list, the Axiom Precision AutoRoute 8 Pro+ is built to last with a solid steel frame, liquid cooling system, and interlocking aluminum table and will be able to accommodate far more advanced projects.

Still not convinced you need a CNC router? Check out this video that shows a few of the many projects they can help you with:

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Sources:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CNC_router
• https://www.uti.edu/blog/cnc/6-cnc-machines