Top 5 Best CNC Machines for Beginners (Reviews & Buyers’ Guide 2022)
Computer Numerical, otherwise known as CNC machines, has become an important industrial tool in many industrial-grade workshops because of its usefulness in providing efficiency, accuracy, and waste reduction. Consequently, different types of CNC machines from various manufacturing companies have different features slightly different from the other.
With many years of experience with different CNC machines from different brands, we have developed the best CNC machines for beginners. So, if you want to put your money to the best use, we suggest that you follow this article closely. CNC machines can be very expensive. It is, therefore, important to get the best CNC machines for your workshop, especially as a beginner.
In this article, we have gathered facts you need to know about CNC machines for beginners. We have also stated the clear difference between a CNC router and a CNC milling machine as we observe this has caused a bit of confusion on the net. If you’re about to purchase a CNC machine as a beginner or need a replacement, we have made a list of the top best CNC machines for beginners in 2021.
All at a Glance
What is the difference between a CNC Milling Machine and a CNC Router?
Choose from our top 3 Picks
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A CNC router and CNC machine provide precision when cutting; however, they are not without differences. Knowing the differences will help you on your quest for the best CNC machine as a beginner. The basic differences between them include:
CNC Router machines:
- They are used to cut soft materials like plastic and foams
- They operate at high speeds
- They feature a spindle that moves in the X, Y, and Z axes
- They cut with rotational speed
- They feature three axes
CNC Milling Machines:
- They are to cut tough materials like metals
- They operate at a slower speed
- The spindle moves along the Z-axis on a linear axis above the workpiece
- The machine moves in the X-Y configuration
- They cut with higher torque
Top 5 Best CNC Machines for Beginners
1. BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit with the Router Included (24″ x 24″ cutting area and 3.3″ of Z travel)
Special Details: Manufacturer: BobsCNC, LLC, Part Number: Evolution 4, Item Weight: 58 pounds, Size: 32″x 39″ x 21″, Color: Birch 5-ply Plywood, Material: Multiple Materials, pattern: Laser cut Baltic birch, Power Source: AC, Measurement System: Inches
Specifications:
- Bulb Voltage: 115 volts
- Wattage: 600 watts
- Torque: 75 Inch Ounces
- Performance Description: 24″ x 24″ x 3.3″ cutting area
- Included Components: Makita RT0701C Router 1/4″ collet.
Evolution 4 CNC router CNC machine is a state-of-the-art machine packed with great features that made us consider it one of the top best CNC machines of 2021.
If you are looking for a wood carving CNC, this is the one to get. You would have no hesitation in buying it again with its amazing features.
Firstly, it features a rigid laser cut frame, SG20U supported rail system, a GT2 belt drive on the X and Y axis, and ACME TR8 on the Z-axis.
Moreover, the excellent design and rigidity of this CNC machine will surpass your expectations.
Evolution 4 industrial-grade CNC machine comes with the Makita RT701C router and Arduino-based microprocessor that uses gbrl. This is connected to a communication port via a USB connection. For Evolution 4 CNC machines for beginners, we suggest the Universal Gcode Sender Platform Version, a Java-based software.
This makes this best 3d CNC machine very versatile as it can run on different software such as Windows, OSX, Linux, and Rapsberry Pi. Also, we highly recommend using a Fusion 360 for CAD and CaM.
Furthermore, this CNC is a good CNC machine for beginners. It is easy to assemble. The assemble manual, which you can get from their site, is meticulously written and almost flawless, although the process of assembling may be time-consuming. But as you build, you will appreciate how well it is engineered.
Also, if you’re contemplating whether to buy this or a fully assembled product, we suggest you buy this as you will learn the machine through the process of assembling.
In addition, BobsCNC has one of the best customer services ever. The customer troubleshooting to get up and running is spot on, and issues are resolved in few hours. Bob stands by his product anytime and any day.
- 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”.
Last update on 2024-11-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- This Bobs CNC machine is good for beginners
- It is a quality product
- It is the CNC machine for the money
- The CNC router machine is easy to assemble
- It is precise and accurate
- It has the best customer service ever
- The instruction is easy to comprehend.
Cons
- The assembling time may be time-consuming.
2. 2-in-1 7000m W 3018 pro-M CNC Router Kit, GBRL Control 3 Axis Wood Plastic Acrylic PCB MDF Carving Milling Engraving Machine with Offline Controller, CNC Router Bits, ER 11 Collects
Special Details: Manufacturer: mcwdoit, Part Number: MC203965, Item Weight: 16.27 pounds, Package Dimension: 17.5×9.6×7 inches, Size: Extra Large, Material: PF+ Aluminum
Specifications:
- Frame Materials: Aluminum + PF
- Frame Size: 40x33x24cm (15.7 x13x 9.4″)
- Effective Engraving Area: 30 18 4.5cm (11.8 x7.1 x1.8″)
- Power Supply: Output 24V, 5A
- XYZ Stepper Motor: 12V, 1.33A
- Voltage: 12V, 0-7000mW
- Speed: 10000r/min
This 2-in-1 700m W3018 Pro- CNC router is another top best 3d CNC machine for beginners. Its features are worth investing in. This CNC machine is an upgraded version. It features an integrated driver CIPM, a fixed heat sink, an external fan, and a sturdy case to extend the life of the control board of the machine. The control board also features self-contained short circuit protection, so it is not easily damaged.
Over and above that, this CNC machine features a 7000m W module that can carve can engrave on wood, kraft paper, leather (wallet), bamboo, plastic, acrylic, MDF, PCB, and soft aluminum. It can also cut through thin wood board kraft paper.
This 3018 Pro engraver can be controlled by GBRL software. The windows support system includes Windows XP/ Windows 7, Windows 8/ Windows 10, and. Although this CNC machine is for beginners, you must know how to create Gcode. The software users can use to create Gcode includes Carbide Create, Artcam, MeshCam, Fusion360, Inkscape.
It features an offline manual controller for file transfer. In addition to this, this CNC machine is easy to install. It comes with a paper instruction and a USB flash drive which contains the software.
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Pros
- This CNC machine is the best bang for the money
- It is durable
- It features short circuit protection against damage
- It is for beginners
- This high-grade CNC machine is easy to assemble
- It is very accurate
- It is easy to install.
- The power is adjustable.
- This CNC machine has great customer service.
Cons
- This CNC machine cannot carve hard materials.
3. MYSWEET 2 in 1 5500mW CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine, GRBL Control 3 Axis DIY CNC Router Kit with 5.5W Module, Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine with Offline Controller
Special Details: Manufacturer: MYSWEET, Item Weight: 15.82 pounds, Package Dimension: 17.5 x 9.5 x 7 inches, Size: Extra Large, Material: Phenolic Resin plus Aluminum
Specifications:
Wavelength: 450nm
Power: 5.5W
Output Current: 3A
Input Voltage: DC 12V
Working temperature: 10°-40°
Profile Dimension: 33 x 40 x 24cm
Engraving area: 30 x 18 x 4.5cm
Software: GBRL control systems
Spindle: 775 spindle motor (12-36V) 24V: 1000r /min\
Support System: Windows XP / Win 7/ Win 8 / Win 10.
Stepper Motor: Fuselage Length 34MM, Current: 1.33A, 12v.Torque 0.25N/M
Drill bits: tip 0.1mm, 20 degree, diameter 3.175mm.
Package Includes: 1 pcs full set engraving machine, 1 pcs 5.5W 5500mW module, 1pcs offline controller, 4 pcs clamp 10 pcs bits, and 1 pcs extension rod with ER11 collet.
We did lots of research for this purchase, and we conclude with no doubt that this is an amazing machine and obviously among the best CNC milling machines for beginners. It allows you to learn the basics of CNC machining as its open design allows you to see the effects of any adjustments you make in the axis easily.
MySweet 2 in 1 5500mW CNC milling engraving machine was designed with absolute beginners in mind. Hence if you want to learn CNC, this machine is the ideal machine. It is equipped with amazing features.
CNC 3018 Pro Engraving Milling machine from MySweet has a plastic body. It has a lightweight GRBL control system and USB interface.
The engraving area of this CNC machine is 30 x 18 x 4.5cm. It also comes with a spindle motor and a 5.5W module on the Z-axis. However, if you use the spindle, you should remove the module.
Also, this milling machine features an offline controller of 1G capacity that controls the CNC router without connection with a computer. This controller can be placed anywhere, such as in a garage or a workshop. In addition, having an offline controller implies that you don’t have to leave a computer hooked up to the machine while it is o with any long-duration projects.
Furthermore, as one of the best 3d CNC machines, it comes with a new control board that includes an integrated driver chip, fixed heat sink, an external fan, a sturdy case to extend the life of the control board.
This CNC milling machine is very versatile. CNC milling machines are capable of much more delicate cuts. It can cut all types of plastics, acrylics, woods, PVC and PCBs, and a range of other projects and materials. Assembling this industrial-grade CNC machine is not that difficult if you follow simple assembly instructions or watch videos and take your time.
This MYSWEET 2 in 1 5500mW CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine includes a 1 pcs full set engraving machine, 1 pcs 5.5W 5500mW module, 1pcs offline controller, 4 pcs clamp, 10 pcs bits., and 1 pcs extension rod with ER 11 collet. What’s more? Getting this milling machine comes with a 2 years warranty.
- 🛠️【2-IN-1 CNC 4540 Pro】 - Designed for the absolute beginner, this machine is a great tool for starting CNC learning. It come with the spindle motor on Z axis. If you use the spindle, please remove the module.
- 🛠️【Offline Controller】- The offline controller is 1G Capacity. You can control the CNC router without connecting to the computer. The CNC router can be placed wherever you want, such as garage and workshop.
- 🛠️【New Control Board】- Integrated driver chip + fixed heat sink + external fan + sturdy casing to extend the life of the control board, Self-contained short circuit protection, Not easy to damage. 12 Months Warranty.
- 🛠️【Versatile】- Capable of cutting all types of plastics, woods, acrylics(Only suitable for spindle milling cutter engraving), PVCs, and PCBs, the MYSWEETY can be used on a wide range of projects and materials.
- 🛠️【Simple Assembly】- Assembly instructions are provided, but if you get stuck, contact us with any questions that arise. Thank you!
Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- It is the best CNC for the money
- This CNC milling machine is accurate.
- It is easy to assemble
- It is very lightweight
- It is ideal for beginners
- CNC 3018 Pro Engraving Milling machine from MySweet come with a 2-year warranty
- It is versatile
- It is great for small projects
Cons
- The screws included for mounting the table to the linear rail bearing are too short.
- The software that comes with this CNC machine is only for controlling the machine and not making designs.
4. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit GRBL Control 3 Axis Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine, XYZ Working Area 300x180x45mm
Special Details: Manufacturer: SainSaint, Package Dimension: 17.4 x 9.88 x 7.05 inches, Item Weight: 15.19 pounds
Specifications:
- Effective Engraving Area: 300x180x45mm(11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8″)
- Frame Size: 400 x 330 x 240mm (15.5 x 13.0 x 9.4″)
- Frame material: PF+ Aluminum
- Z-Axis Component Material: Nylon
- Spindle: 775 motor, 24V, 10000RPM.
- Rated Power: 60W, Maximum Power: 120W
- Step Motor: 1.3A, 12V, 0.25Nm torque (2.2 in lb)
- Drill Bits: Tip 0.1mm, 20 degree, Diameter 3.175mm
- Supported OS: Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, MAC OS.
- Software: Grbl Control (candle)
- Power Supply: 24V/5A
- One box includes 1 x 3018 PRO DIY Router kit, 1x Extension Rod with ER 11 Collet (3.175mm), 4 x Plate Clamps, 10 x CNC Router Bits (Cutting Angle: 20 Degree; Shank Diameter: 3. 175mm; Tip Diameter: 0.1mm), 1 X offline Controller, 1 x Powe Supply, 1 x English Manual and 1 x CD
Among the best CNC machines for beginners, the Genmitsu CNC router milling engraving machine is one great tool for starting your CNC learning. For a student who is just learning CNC machining, this milling machine will help you engrave models for coding and designing. And if woodworking is your hobby, this CNC can add features like curved wood and exquisite patterns.
Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO milling engraving machine has amazing features, one of which is an upgraded power adapter that comes with CE, FCE, and UL certifications, an excellent indication of quality. The re-optimized power adapter also features over-voltage protection, over-current protection, over-temperature protection, and over-circuit protection, all of which ensure the user’s safety and the CNC machine.
This wonderful blend between quality and safety makes Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO CNC machines among the top best CNC machines in 2021. Over and above that, Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO CNC machines for beginners have a built-in smart integrated circuit design that protects the power adapter against overheat, allows it to keep working and charging stably.
Likewise, one can use this CNC machine from Genmitsu remotely. It features an offline controller module that allows users to control the CNC router remotely without connecting it to the computer.
Furthermore, the mainboard has been redesigned to include an ABS case and fan to enhance its performance and stability. Besides, this CNC machine is built on Arduino and Grbl open source, where users can easily find support, tutorials, and additional training.
Moreover, this Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router best industrial-grade CNC machine is versatile. It can cut all types of plastics, soft aluminum, woods, acrylics, PVCs, PCBs, etc., and a wide range of other materials with its 1.8inch effective engraving depth.
Besides, this CNC machine is an upgraded version of 3018. All the components do not need positioning. Hence there is no difficulty in assembling, and this increases the working accuracy.
- New Version: Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO is an upgraded version of 3018; All components do not need to be positioned, which greatly reduces the difficulty of assembly and improves the working accuracy; Capable of cutting all types of plastics, soft aluminum, woods, acrylics, PVCs, and PCBs, etc
- 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 up to full speed
- Controller Software: The Genmitsu 3018-PRO uses Grbl, a high-performance open-source software for controlling movement, and runs on Arduino; Includes CARVECO Maker CAM Design Software and CANDLE for controlling your machine and running your GCODE design files
- Optional Upgraded Parts: Super Size your 3018 CNC to a 3040 by getting a Genmitsu 3040 Y-Axis Extension Kit; The 3040 Aluminum Spoilboard and 3040 MDF Spoilboard for this extension kit are also available to buy
- Note: Assembly Instructions and User Guide are provided, please find at the Product Guides and Documents Section below and get everything you might need; If you get stuck, check out the SainSmart Resource Center (see at User Guide) or contact us with any questions that arise
Last update on 2024-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- This CNC machine is worth every penny
- It features an upgraded power adapter for the protection of the machine and user.
- This CNC milling machine is a good blend between quality and safety
- You can use this CNC machine remotely.
- It is very versatile.
- There is no difficulty in assembling.
- This CNC machine is accurate.
- It is very stable
- The customer service is excellent
Cons
- The package may come with some parts missing.
5. VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC Router Kit GRBL Control wit Offline Controller Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine XYZ Working Area 300 x 180 x 45mm
Special Details: Manufacturer: Vevor, Part Number: CNC 3018-PRO, Item Weight: 14.9 pounds, Product Dimension: 17.7 x 10.2 x 7.1 inches, Item Model Number: CNC Machine 3018, Size: Basic, Material: Aluminum and Bakelite Material, Power Source: 3018-Pro no laser
Specifications:
- Product Size: 33 x 40 x 24cm
- Effective Carving Area: 300(X) x 180 (Y)x 40(Z)mm/(11.8″x7.1″x1.57″)
- Spindle: 775 spindle motor 24V
- Driving Units: T8 Stainless Steel Screws
- Spindle Speed: 10000 r/min
- Stepping Motor: Current: 1.33A, 12V
- Torque: 0.25N/M
- Power: 24V 5A
- Connection: USB
- Control Software: GBRL
- Control Drills: 10 free drills
- Offline Screen: 1.8 inch offline screen
- Package Content: 1x 3018 PRO DIY Router Kit, 1 x Extension Rod with ER 11 Collet (3.175mm), 4 x Plate Clamps, 10 x CNC Router Bits, Cutting Angle: 30 Degree; Shank Diameter: 3.175mm, Tip Diameter: 0.1mm, 1 x Offline Controller, 1 x Power Supply, 1 x USB Drive, 1 x USB Cable.
VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC router machine is another best CNC machine for beginners. It is a high blend of quality and price as it is very much affordable. This CNC machine, like others, is also packed with amazing features.
Firstly, this CNC machine is durable. It is made of aluminum and bakelite material, and it has high precision. The three refined axes can realize plane engraving with an effective working area of 300(X) 180 (Y) x 40(Z) mm (11.8″x7.1″x1.57″).
Secondly, you can connect the GBRL control board to a computer through a USB interface. It also features an offline controller configured to control the engraving machine remotely with or without a computer. This offline controller does not need to be connected to a computer and does not need to download files.
Compared to the 1″ offline controller, this VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC router machine 1.8 controller has three advantages: firstly, there is no need for users to connect it to a computer. Secondly, there is no need to download files, and lastly, the X, Y, Z-axis can be manually adjusted to the starting point of engraving. You can manually turn the spindle on and off.
Thirdly, among the best CNC machines available, this CNC machine has three efficient 42 stepper motors on each of the three axes for smooth movement. Moreover, the 775 24V spindle motor on the Z-axis can reach 10000r/min speed.
Fourthly, VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC router machine is very versatile. It has a wide application of use. It serves as a laser cutter and an engraver machine. It can cut different materials, including plastics, acrylics, PVCs, soft aluminum, woods, hard metal, and a wide range of other materials. Lastly, the CNC 3018 pro supports Windows 8, Windows 10, macOS, and Linux.
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Pros
- The GBRL control is convenient
- It is budget-friendly
- This CNC machine has a wide application of use
- It is a high-precision machine.
- It is durable
- This CNC machine is easy to use
- It is easy to assemble
- VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC router is an ideal CNC machine for beginners.
- It is one of the best CNC machines out there for the Price
- This CNC machine is a high performing CNC machine
- It has great customer service
Cons
- It may be not easy to set up
Factors to Consider for choosing the best CNC machines for Beginners
Before investing your money in the best CNC machine for beginners, you must consider the following factors:
The speed of rotation of the CNC machine: the speed or feed rate of the CNC machine is important in choosing the best CNC machines for beginners. This is because it determines the rate materials are cut during the manufacturing process.
The Work Radius: Choosing a CNC machine with a bigger work radius when compared to the largest material you work with is often the best
The power of the Machine: Consider adjusting the power in your workshop to meet the power requirement of your CNC machine before operating.
Availability of spare parts: Like every other tool or machine, the availability of spare parts is a major factor to consider when choosing the best CNC machines for beginners. Choosing a brand that your technicians can easily fix when your machine breaks down to reduce the time between breaks down and when your machine is back to work.
Weight of the CNC machine: The best material for your CNC machine is iron cast. Iron cast-made CNC machines are durable for tougher jobs. Materials like aluminum, polymer composite are best for less tough tasks.
Other factors include motion type and rate of movement
Final Verdict – Best CNC Machines for Beginners
BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit with the Router Included (24″ x 24″ cutting area and 3.3″ of Z travel) is our first pick for the best CNC machines for beginners review in 2021. No manufacturer stands behind his product like Bobs.
This product’s amazing customer support has coupled with great quality, has made this CNC machine from Bobs the best CNC machine for beginners. In addition, it is a wonderful balance between quality and price.
However, the assembling may be a bit overwhelming, but the user manual is very comprehensive and extremely detailed, and the effort worth it because this CNC machine works!
2-in-1 7000m W 3018 pro-M CNC Router Kit, GBRL Control 3 Axis Wood Plastic Acrylic PCB MDF Carving Milling Engraving Machine with Offline Controller, CNC Router Bits, ER 11 Collects is our second best pick for this best CNC machines for beginners review.
This CNC machine has a good price, and you would be impressed by its performance. Although this CNC machine for beginners can cut through thin wood board and kraft papers, it can’t carve hard metals, Jade, and other hard materials. Also, before you use this CNC machine, knowing how to create Gcode is needed, especially if you are a beginner.
MYSWEET 2 in 1 5500mW CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine, GRBL Control 3 Axis DIY CNC is the third. This CNC machine is the one for you if you are unsure if you want to spend large sums of money and realize that designing, planning, and operating one of these is outside your skillset.
We would recommend this best CNC machine to anyone wanting a low-end kit to explore this CNC for its size and power limitations. It is also a very capable light-duty machine with excellent customer support. However, the only drawback we have regarding this CNC machine is the instruction manual that isn’t easily understood, but with little more patience, you will certainly get through with it.
Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit GRBL Control 3 Axis Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine follows suit. It is a great self-learning tool for DIY projects, as you are not faced with the risk of damaging expensive equipment.
This CNC machine uses Grbl, high-performance, open-source software for controlling movement. It is versatile and can cut all types of plastics, soft aluminum, woods acrylics, PVCs, and PCBs.
VEVOR CNC 3018-Pro 3 Axis CNC Router Kit GRBL Control with Offline Controller Plastic Acrylic PCB PVC Wood Carving Milling Engraving Machine XYZ Working Area 300 x 180 x 45mm is the least. It is also a high-performance machine with premium quality. It is also the most affordable of the nest CNC machines for beginners enlisted here.
However, while using this machine, we recommend that the laser head is not used continuously for a long time. Rather, you should pause the machine every half an hour.
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