There is no shortage of cheap CNC machines. A CNC machine makes the process more sophisticated compared to handheld equipment. Additionally, with a CNC machine, you get ready-made objects quickly. Let's consider how you can bring your creativity to life using the best cheap CNC machines.
How Does a CNC Set-up work?
G-code and M-code control a CNC (computer numerical control) machine. These sets of codes have the instructions required to control the movement of the tool head. Additionally, the codes are used simultaneously to relay informational commands to the tool in use.
Furthermore, the CNC routers are fed these codes, and you get a CNC machine that can do numerous functions without human intervention. Accurate mass production of items has been made easier even from the comfort of your home.
There is no shortage of cheap CNC machines. Cheap and affordable CNC machines make the process more sophisticated compared to handheld equipment. Additionally, with a CNC machine, you get ready-made objects quickly. Let's consider how you can bring your creativity to life using the best cheap CNC machines.
How Does a CNC Set-up work?
G-code and M-code control a CNC (computer numerical control) machine. These sets of codes have the instructions required to control the movement of the tool head. Additionally, the codes are used simultaneously to relay informational commands to the tool in use.
Furthermore, the CNC routers are fed these codes, and you get a CNC machine that can do numerous functions without human intervention. Accurate mass production using CAD CAM software has been made easier even from the comfort of your home.
You can easily use a desktop CNC router machine for your business without extra production costs. For example, if you have a digital file, then a mostly printed CNC machine can build your prototypes in half the time it would take a manual handheld spindle.
Let's look at a few CNC mills and machines we used to shape and design different plastic and metal sheets.
Affordable CNC Machines
Rank | Product Image | Brand Name | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
| ||
2 |
| ||
3 |
| ||
4 |
| ||
5 |
| ||
6 |
| ||
7 |
|
1) Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router
- New Version: Genmitsu Cnc 3018-Pro Is An Upgraded Version Of 3018. All Components Do Not Need To Be Positioned, Which Greatly...
- Upgraded Power Adapter: Ul Approved And Out-Of-The-Box Support For The Drop In 20,000Rpm Spindle, No Need To Modify G-Code To Ramp...
- Controller Software: The Genmitsu 3018-Pro Uses Grbl, A High-Performance Open-Source Software For Controlling Movement, And Runs...
- Optional Upgraded Parts: Super Size Your 3018 Cnc To A 3040 By Getting A Genmitsu 3040 Y-Axis Extension Kit (B08P2S3Jwp). The 3040...
Dependability and simplicity stand out when it comes to this CNC router. Of course, no one wants a machine that's hard to assemble, especially a desktop CNC router. We noticed that the components do not need to be positioned, so the working accuracy is improved. This makes it one of the best CNC routers or CNC milling machine.
To put it to the test, we tried to cut other materials. It worked relatively well on plastic, acrylic, wood, and soft aluminum for shallow carving. We also didn't need to modify the G-code to get the spindle motor running at full speed (20,000 rpm). The stepper motor was also in good shape. Keep in mind we had G-code design files ready, so everything ran smoothly.
When it comes to controller software, this affordable CNC machine uses open-source GRBL software, which is compatible with most operating systems. There is nothing complicated about the CNC programming, which we found to be perfect for beginners. Another feature we thought was perfect was the Caveco maker Computer Aided Manufacturing software. The machine weighs 15 pounds which is fair since it will spend most of its life on a desktop.
Did we mention this CNC machine is highly giftable?
2) Genmitsu 3020-PRO MAX CNC Router Machine
- Bigger and better with an all new extra rigid and beefy design featuring an increased Z Height of 72mm dual steel X axis guide...
- Upgraded linear guide structure and 4040 Y axis profiles highly improve the engraving accuracy and processing strength,...
- One-piece machined and molded aluminum design ensures flatness and strength of the work platform. Integrated measurement scale is...
- Everything you need out of the box. The Genmitsu 3020-PRO MAX router already includes all of the accessories and components you...
- The pre-assembled module of XZ Axis Gantry and Base Assembly reduces the effort of assembly. You just need 3 main installation...
The re-designed control board is the best feature of the 3020 CNC machine. Also, the control board modifications provide more operational capability unlike other affordable CNC machines. We also tried out its laser engraving, emergency stop switches, XYZ axis limit switches, and Z-probe. The metal contours made on the soft aluminum metal sheet are perfect.
Image Source: printables.com
Given the tiny engraving, we didn't expect it to be this accurate, which is why it's a great machine. The accuracy was also partly a result of an upgraded version of the linear guide structure with 4040 Y-axis profiles. The design ensures the flatness of the work platform for surprisingly accurate carving. CNC machining has never been easier on an affordable CNC router.
We did have a problem with the expiry of the Easel software after 30 days since it worked remarkably well. The candle CNC control software was also incompatible with the available operating systems since it opened a manual jog operation. We finally settled on the Openbuilds CNC program
3) FoxAlien Masuter Pro CNC Router Machine
- Structure Upgrade: Masuter Pro is an All-Aluminum CNC router machine, which makes the machine sturdier than the last version. The...
- Upgraded Controller Box: The control board is upgraded to a compact controller box. The emergency stop button and home button are...
- Compatibility Upgrade: Masuter Pro includes 2 spindle clamps: 52mm & 65mm. The 52mm clamp can accommodate the 60W spindle, 300W...
- Assembly Upgrade: Main parts are pre-assembled, and the part of the wires are pre-wired to the controller box. It takes only 10-15...
- Large Engraving Area: The active working area is 15.75” x 15.75” x 2.36” (400 x 400 x 60mm). It is large enough for daily...
The FoxAlien is a great CNC router for light work in limited areas. Since all the main CNC router parts are pre-assembled, there is no need for much assembly. It took the team roughly 15 minutes to assemble. The CNC router kit has 2 CNC spindle clamps. However, it can accommodate more spindles. Therefore, it would be best to purchase CNC kits.
Image Source: Inventables.com
We tried a large wood project which went well. However, we quickly realized that the CNC router worked better with rest stops between the stages. Our MDF spoil board was used first to test the machine, since it can mill wood. It's too lightweight to make deep and large cuts at once, which makes it perfect for shallow cuts and small-scale projects.
We do recommend searching for open-source software to use. Additionally, this laser engraving machine did not pass our check for beginner-friendly. So it would greatly help if you had a working and operational knowledge of CNC, or CNC experience before you purchase this one.
Either way, it's the best machines to use since the stepper motors have knobs for easier adjustment. In addition, CNC engravers won't have to struggle to switch the materials when they want to change them. Lastly, the z-axis is a huge upgrade from the previous design and even other affordable CNC routers.
4) Rattmotor 3018 DIY CNC Router Kit Machine
- 【Upgrade Version CNC 3018 PRO】※ Frame size: 30x26x25CM. Working area:18x10x4.5CM. Material: Aluminum Alloy. Spindle: 775...
- 【Material/Dimensions】※ The fixed external frame is made of black injection molding material, working table is aluminum alloy...
- 【Simple Assembly/Use】※ This mini cnc router machine kit is mainly designed for DIY carving enthusiasts/beginners, easily...
- 【Update GRBL Board】※ The updated control board has added the functions of supporting emergency stop button and X/Y/Z axis...
- 【Applicable Engraving Material】※ CNC 3018 PRO machine can not only engraving wood/plastic/acrylic/ pvc/pcb/carbon...
This mini CNC router is one of the cheaper CNC programmable machines. For a cheap machine, we were aware that it was the right machine for beginners. It is also the perfect equipment for small DIY or CNC mill projects you can do from the comfort of your home. What stood out was the upgraded control board with added functions like the x,y,z, and axis limit switches.
Image Source: aliexpress.com
This DIY CNC kit is perfect for a beginner to tailor their requirements. Think of Additionally, the control board can identify when the offline manual control is on. The spindle has a speed of 10,000 rpm and can handle most soft materials. To test this, we tried using glass. The spindle broke. However, we were impressed by how the machine started carving before the spindle broke.
The GRBL software is easy to use with a little practice and is compatible with this hobby CNC router and other machines. Additionally, the double ball bearings ensure there is little to no friction, which in turn provides a low-noise operating environment. For a cheap CNC machine, it is an impressive device.
5) Genmitsu CNC Router Machine PROVER-XL 4030
- Easy to Set Up: The pre-assembled module of XYZ axis and wires dramatically reduces effort of assembly, allowing you to start...
- More Power: New completely redesigned control box and drive system, beefy C-BEAM Frame, precision NEMA 23 stepper motors, High...
- No additional parts required: Everything you need out of the box, no stripped down kits or addons, the Genmitsu PROVerXL 4030 CNC...
- Precision and Performance: Rigid C-beam structure,Leadscrew Driven, Y-axis Dual screw drive, Z-Axis Optical Axis Drive delivers...
- Built to suit your needs: The PROVerXL CNC platform is just the beginning, if you are looking for an even larger machine get the...
If you are an experienced CNC engraver, then this is the best CNC appliance for you. This laser engraver is one of the best professional CNC routers, and you can easily bring your creativity to life. (Check out how much a laser engraver costs here). Furthermore, the machine is easy to upgrade. We found that with every upgraded version, there is broader use, and the machine can fulfill requirements for every project.
Image Source: all3dp.com
Additionally, we noticed that, unlike many CNC routers, there is no need for additional parts and components. The X, Y, as well as Z axes and ball screws limit switches, stop switches, and others are available and don't come in different kits.
This router uses a re-designed control box which gives you complete control of buttons for boot, emergency stop, motor speed control, unlocking, and pausing the machine. The GBRL software with this CNC engraving machine is easy to use. It is also compatible with G-codes.
6) Mcwdoit 500W CNC Router Machine
- 【500W High Power Spindle】 Load Speed: 0-11000rpm/min, Max. Movement Speed: 5000mm/min. mcwdoit's 4540 CNC router machine is...
- 【Larger Engraving Range】 Increased to 430*390*90mm (16.93*15.35*3.54''), the position occupied by the limit switch has been...
- 【Engraving & Cutting & Drilling】You can use this CNC machine for woodworking. It can also engrave metal, MDF, acrylic, foam,...
- 【Easy to Assemble】This CNC wood & metal router takes about 20-30 minutes to complete the assembly. The base is pre-installed,...
- 【Complete Functions & Accessories】Integrated external power supply 48V--Safe and Reliable; This carving machine includes 10pcs...
This is the best CNC router to carve wood and metal. You can also carve soft materials such as acrylic, MDF, plastic, carbon fiber, and soft metals. However, we did find that it was too heavy to be a desktop machine. It's made of black injection molding material, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel. If you want to set it on a desktop, the surface has to be sturdy because the laser cutter can be dangerous.
Image Source: desertcart.com
Like many CNC machines, the base is pre-assembled to give beginners an easy time. First, we had to install the XY-axis drag chain and the X-Z-axis gantry. It took us a while, but it was made easier because the wires were labeled. In addition, the work surface is labeled for precise cutting for both an engraver and a beginner.
As we also used the offline controller and emergency stop switch. Since this machine is sturdy, we figured it could handle production routing and drilling, which it did. However, we heard a loud "thunk" noise when using the machine for heavier projects.
We did use the machine with CAD and CAM software. However, when using software with CNC, it helps to be computer savvy and know what CAD/CAM is. Additionally, we feel like its one of the best beginner machines, if you don't know where to start.
7) Bobs' CNC Quantum Mini CNC Router
- A rigid laser cut 5-Ply Baltic Birch frame with SG20U supported rail system.
- GT2 9mm belt drive on X and Y-axis and Tr8 Acme Rod mounted with an ACME Nut on the Z-axis.
- NEMA 17 Stepper Motors and Home switches on all axes with a Self-Squaring Gantry.
- 1/2” MDF with Aluminum T-slot Spoilboard and includes the Makita RT0701C Variable Speed Router.
- Designed to use GRBL1.1 firmware on the Arduino Uno with repeatability of 0.002” to 0.004”.
For its size, this is an affordable CNC router. This CNC machine is perfect for engraving on wood and soft materials. Right off the bat, assembly took us 4 straight hours. Had it been a single-person job, it might have taken double the time because of how many parts there are. However, after assembly, it was worth the wait. Everything goes together with no force fit.
Image Source: reviewgeek.com
Using the software to create and interpret the G-code files wasn't hard. You can also try installing a universal G-code sender Additionally, we used a wooden sheet to test the accuracy of the CNC router machine. Most CNC router machines can cut 90-degree angles on a square. However, we got rounded corners. The rounded corners are visible but not significant in small-sized engravings.
If you bought this CNC machine with industrial production in mind, it wouldn't manage the bulk. However, it is the perfect machine for homemade projects or a small wood engraving business. It can easily and perfectly work on wood and soft metals without overloading the gantry. But harder materials are not for this machine.
Why Does My Small Business Need a CNC Machine?
Whether you use an engraving machine for your hobby or a small business, there are many benefits to using a CNC machine. Using a manual engraver is hard work. Therefore, to automate the process, a CNC machine will make your production faster. Here are some major reasons your business needs a CNC machine.
a) Production Consistency
Most CNC programmable machines have operating systems that provide multiple production options. Specifying the design you want on all your products accurately translates into G-code. When fed into the CNC router, the design and quality of your products will have the same engraving.
This flexibility will allow you to balance out your stock and keep the products at the number you want.
b) High-Profit Margins
A CNC machine will give you high-profit margins by reducing long-term costs. Operational costs and labor costs are necessary expenses for many businesses. However, you can easily offset expenses when purchasing a CNC machine. In addition, CNC programmable machines are fast and productive, which can be hard to beat.
The labor costs you incur might be lowered within the first few months of using a CNC engraving machine. That being said, when it comes to CNC router cost, there are affordable CNC machines and CNC machines that cost tens of thousands of dollars.
c) Precise and Accurate
A CNC router only has programmable features. This means everything is fed to the machine via G and M-code. Additionally, G-code is flexible enough to have variations down to decimal points, leaving no room for error. Achieving this accuracy cannot be done on a manual machine at any point.
CNC programmable machines can achieve variations that are not visible to the naked eye. This ability has opened up many intricate design possibilities.
d) Added Productivity
Using automated actions and instructions, CNC machines have paved the way for accurate manufacturing processes. This has led to increased productivity. In addition, the ability of industrial-type CNC machines to mass-produce products has led to the optimization of quality, profitability, and stability.
With the proper maintenance, CNC machines can work all day, every day. They will make the same intricate design on millions of products.
e) Versatility
CNC programmable machines are very flexible and versatile. These are machines that can make many different components that go towards an end product. CNC kits and tools make this flexibility possible, which caters to changing customer demands. These tools also simplify the production process.
Buying Guide
Not everyone who buys a CNC machine knows what to look for. We are here to steer you in the right direction. Here are some things to look out for.
i) Working Surface
Your working surface will determine how large your creations can be. The larger your working surface, the more room you have for your products. It is also recommended to have a strong working surface. Your working area should be strong wood or metal. It is recommended to size up your working space.
Image Source: carousell.com
This will give you some leeway when you grow your talents or want to experiment with other designs. Therefore, getting a large area to work with also ensures you don't have to purchase a larger machine to accommodate larger designs.
ii) CNC Software
There are many software's to be aware of. You should also have a rough idea of how to use most of them. Unfortunately, not all CNC machines have the software you will know how to use. Therefore before purchasing a CNC pre-programmed machine, ensure the software it comes with is easy to use. It is also important to ensure the software's compatibility with your computer.
Image Source: bobcadcam.com
Ensuring compatibility will save you hundreds of dollars that you would have spent trying to buy new software. If you are a beginner, there are multiple online CNC forums where you can ask anything and gets answers from hundreds of people. A general rule is to start with Cam or CAD software.
ii) Spindler vs. Router
When buying a budget CNC router, there are two types you will come across without even knowing the difference. However, knowing the difference will help you to get a machine you like.
a) Router
Image Source: woodsmithplans.com
Router machines are perfect for first-timers who want to work on softer materials like wood. Additionally, they work better with spindle kits on a rotating head drive. Router machines are also budget-friendly and serve as an excellent starter piece. Then, as you advance your skills, you can trade them for a better one.
b) Spindler
Image Source: depositphotos.com
A Spindler machine is best suited for heavy-duty use like mass production and intricate design work with more accuracy and power. These machines pack a punch and are very durable. Therefore, they would serve a small business well. However, with all their bells and whistles, they are very expensive.
iii) Machine Weight
Considering the weight of your machine is important before purchasing it. Remember that all machines need a sturdy top where they will spend most of their life. However, heavier machines need a sturdier surface than lighter ones. Because it's labeled as a desktop CNC router, it doesn't mean a weak desktop will suffice.
Image Source: anglingdirect.com
Heavy machines are well known to deliver accurate and precise results. They are also less noisy compared to lighter ones. However, they can be difficult to transport, especially if you prefer portability.
iv) Machine Size
CNC machines come in many sizes. Depending on your specific needs, you might need a smaller machine than a large one. A smaller machine is better suited to a side business or a hobby. A larger machine is suited for a small-scale business. Therefore, weigh your requirements with the size of the machine unless you know what a CNC machine operator is.
Image Source: osaincncrouter.com
You should also measure the size of the area where you want to place the machine. If the space is small, then consider a smaller CNC . Before selecting the final size, size up the machine to be on the safer side. A machine that's too small might not have the capacity you require.
v) Extras Included
Most CNC appliances come with a CNC kit, extra pieces or extra sets. The most common extra sets include spindles, router bits, bolts, and tool holders. You should also ensure that your CNC router or milling machine comes with the needed software so that purchasing software isn't on your budget. After all, they can be costly. Not to mention the best CNC machine tools might come separately.
Image Source: cncstep.com
You should also decide whether you want your CNC router to come pre-assembled or not assembled. However, it would be better to lean towards a pre-assembled machine or spend 8 or more hours assembling it yourself.
FAQ
1) Who needs a CNC machine?
Almost every industry can benefit from using these CNC pre-programmed machines. Not only are they versatile, but they are also cost-effective. As a result, they can be used in the medical, oil and gas, aerospace, military, and electronics industries.
2) What are the disadvantages of CNC machines?
A great initial investment. Despite a great initial investment, these machines make a greater profit margin. However, these machines can be more of a disadvantage than an advantage without proper maintenance. Furthermore, budget CNC routers will fall apart faster than expensive models.
3) What is the lifespan of a CNC Unit?
A CNC router machine with a 3-axis mill could live to work for at least 10 years. But, of course, this is also with the proper maintenance and servicing.
4) How often should I calibrate my CNC Router?
Even if you don't notice any tolerance issues or any deviations in performance, it is recommended to re-calibrate your machine every six months. But, again, it should be done as part of routine maintenance to ensure quality is untouched.
The Bottom Line
Hobbyists, side businesses, and small-scale businesses will gain a competitive edge when they start using a CNC machine. You can always step away from the business, as the machines work for you. They will help to save you from the backbreaking work of manual carving. It is important to note that not all CNC routers are made equal. Therefore, caution is recommended before selecting one.
Featured Image Source: industrytoday.com
