9 Best Wood CNC Machines of 2023 Tested

Wood CNC machines operate through computer programs to achieve precise wood carving and shaping. They excel in furniture production, cabinetry, and intricate woodwork by executing digital designs accurately. These machines streamline manufacturing and enable intricate designs that are challenging to achieve manually. If you too are confused about which one is the best option for you, read ahead for the best wood CNC machines in 2023. 

Here are the top wood CNC machines ideal for home projects:

• Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO machine: The Genmitsu 3018-Pro machine is perfect for beginners, offering noiseless drivers, supporting Windows and Mac OS, and featuring a durable aluminum body. With an engraving depth of 1.8 inches and a 300 x 180 mm working area, it handles various materials, powered by GRBL software.
• Genmitsu 3018 PROver CNC machine: The upgraded Genmitsu 3018-PROver provides durability and security, equipped with Toshiba TB6S109 drivers and a 1.8-inch touchscreen controller for easy offline engraving. The pre-assembled unit ensures quick setup in around 15 minutes, making it beginner-friendly.
• MYSWEETY 4540 CNC router machine: Despite the brand name, MYSWEETY 4540 impresses with an upgraded 3-axis design, a 500W spindle, and an engraving area of 430 x 390 x 90 mm. Supporting GRBL software, it offers easy assembly, labeled wires, and a user-friendly touchscreen offline CNC controller.
• Genmitsu PROver XL 4030 CNC router machine: Geared towards professionals, Genmitsu PROver XL 4030 is a pre-assembled model with XYZ axis, featuring a new control box and precision NEMA 23 stepper motors. The working area of 400 x 300 x 110 mm accommodates various materials, suitable for experienced professionals.
• Fox Alien Masuter Pro CNC machine: The Fox Alien Masuter Pro stands out for its durable all-aluminum construction, suitable for engraving on various materials. Utilizing state-of-the-art GRBL software, it features accommodating spindle clamps and an expansive engraving area of 400 x 400 x 60 mm, ensuring durability and versatility.

1. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO machine - Best overall

Drawing from experience, SainSmart has surely made a name for itself in the CNC machines arena. And one of their best machines is the Genmitsu 3018-Pro CNC machine. Extremely suitable for beginners, the machine has an engraving depth of 1.8 inches. 

With this machine, you get an expansive working area of 300 x 180 mm, while the spindle can plunge up to 45 mm. The machine can work with a variety of different materials apart from wood, including soft aluminum, PVCs (polyvinyl chloride), plastics, and acrylics. 

Since the machine’s body is made of aluminum, you can expect the machine to last you for years and years. The machine is powered by GRBL software and runs on Arduino. Additionally, its offline controller can be upgraded to a laser engraver. 

Moreover, you don’t even have to worry about any loud noise while the machine does what it does best since it uses the Toshiba TB6S109 noiseless drivers. 

Thus, this is actually the best machine you can get in this price range, especially for a beginner. It actually has a high rating of 4 out of 5 stars from over 1300 customer reviews on Amazon. 

2. Genmitsu 3018 PROver CNC machine - Best for beginners

The Genmitsu 3018-PROver CNC router machine was launched as the new and improved version of the previous 3018-PRO model. This version will help provide more factory-quality projects. 

Based on open-source technology, using the same GRBL software, and also equipped with the Toshiba TB6S109 noiseless drivers, this model has a 1.8-inch display and an extremely friendly user interface on its controller. Thus, offline engraving is made easier due to the touchscreen surface. 

My findings show that although it uses the same software and drivers as the 3018 PRO model, it has improvements in terms of durability and security. The stop button and the acrylic sidewalls will provide protection from any sort of chips or debris that might result from the woodworking. 

Additionally, you can also equip the machine with a laser engraver depending on your woodworking needs. 

Moreover, the unit comes pre-assembled. So, it will only take you around 15 minutes to get the machine up and running. However, the machine’s effective engraving area is less than its predecessor but still acceptable, standing at 260 x 155 x 35 mm. 

3. MYSWEETY 4540 CNC router machine - Best 3-axis CNC machine

Don’t go by the brand name since the MYSWEETY 4540 CNC router machine is one of the best CNC routers you can find in the market. With an upgraded 3-axis, the machine works with a 500W spindle, having a spindle speed of 11,000 RPM. 

The effective engraving area of this machine is also immense, standing at a whopping 430 x 390 x 90 mm. Additionally, the machine works on the GRBL software and supports both Windows and MacOS. 

Moreover, we found from using this product that you can work on a variety of different materials using the machine, including wood, aluminum, stainless steel, brass, acrylic, leather, resin, PVC, etc. 

Since the components of the machine already come pre-assembled, it will only take you around 15-30 minutes to get the machine started. All the wires are neatly labeled and arranged. Plus, you get an English manual to make your work a piece of cake. 

However, I recommend only experienced professionals buy this model since the software can be difficult for a beginner to understand. 

4. Genmitsu PROver XL 4030 CNC router machine - Best for professionals

The Genmitsu PROver XL 4030 CNC machine is a pre-assembled model of the XYZ axis. It is an even newer and more improved version of the previous two models. It comes with a newly designed controlled box and a drive system that increases the efficiency of the CNC machine. 

After checking the product, I found that everything you need for the assembly of the machine is already included in the package, so you don’t need to go running around to get the machine started. 

Additionally, the beefy C-BEAM frame, precision NEMA 23 stepper motors, the high-power spindle, and the included adaptor all add to the efficiency of this CNC machine. Moreover, the Z-axis optical drive delivers more stability than the traditional V-slot drive. 

However, this is a very pricey machine, costing around a thousand bucks. So, I recommend only experienced professionals buy this. The beginner woodworkers can sit this one out. 

5. Fox Alien Masuter Pro CNC machine - Best for durability

The Fox Alien Masuter Pro is one of the best professional CNC routers available in the market. Its all-aluminum body makes it more durable than most of the CNC router machines available in the market. 

In my time with the product, I discovered that you could use this machine to engrave on a variety of materials like wood, resin, nylon, leather, PCB, acrylic, and carbon fiber. 

Since it uses state-of-the-art GRBL software, you can directly connect the machine to your PC using a USB. Additionally, the machine has two spindle clamps of the size 52 mm and 65 mm. These two spindle clamps can accommodate the 60W spindle, the 300W spindle, and the Fox Alien 40W and 20W modules. 

Other than that, the machine has an expansive engraving area of 400 x 400 x 60 mm. Even more, the machine comes with a support system for an extension kit in case you need to increase the effective working area for your woodworking needs. 

6. Fox Alien 4040-XE CNC router machine - Best touchscreen controller

Coming up with another Fox Alien model, the 4040-XE desktop CNC router has a 300W spindle and NEMA 23 stepper motors that are extremely powerful and efficient. The power provides a maximum speed of 2000 mm per minute and a spindle speed of 10000 RPM. 

The machine includes a control board, emergency stop, power supply, and wires, all of which are included in a newly designed box. That makes the machine easy and safe to use. Additionally, the controller has a 3.5-inch LCD touchscreen, which also doubles as an offline controller. 

My hands-on review showed that the machine is capable of handling both small and large materials and is also compatible with GRBL software. 

The machine is capable of engraving, cutting, and drilling many different kinds of materials such as wood, metal, foam, acrylic, resin, carbon fiber, nylon, PCB, etc. You can work on all these materials on a large engraving area of 400 x 400 x 55 mm. 

7. Genmitsu PROver XL 6050 CNC machine - Best for largest working area

The Genmitsu PROver XL 6050 CNC router machine has an ever bigger effective engraving area than the previous models, standing at 600 x 500 x 115 mm. The 300W spindle motor, the NEMA23 stepper motors, and the all-metal frame of the machine deliver powerful and efficient performance. 

The dual HG-15 linear rails and the single Y-axis structure are very sturdy, greatly improving the accuracy and strength of the woodworking process. At the same time, the machine works at a very low noise level. 

Moreover, after a thorough inspection, I found that the MDF spoil boards are compatible with a wide variety of clamp sets, which can easily be customized and configured with add-ons. Additionally, the maintenance and replacement of the boards is also simple. 

Since the machine comes pre-assembled, starting it takes no time at all. Plus, the machine comes with an extra 65 mm spindle holder for any needed future upgrades. You can add a variety of different accessories provided by SainSmart, like a laser module, an office controller, or a dust shoe. 

Thus, all of this makes this an excellent machine for a professional with experience. I do think that the price is out of budget for a beginner. 

8. Fox Alien Vasto CNC wood router machine - Best for high-precision

Presenting you with another FoxAlien CNC router, the Vasto router-powered CNC machine uses HG-15 linear rails and bearings and ball screws in the X, Y, and Z axis. All of this helps to improve the precision and accuracy of the machine. 

As I tested it, I found that the super sturdy metal body makes the machine stable and steady for woodworking and basic plane engraving and cutting. With a 400W spindle, the machine can work on a variety of materials other than wood, including acrylic, carbon fiber, aluminum, etc. 

Moreover, the four DM542 independent drivers are built into the controller box. This helps improve the working of the NEMA23 stepper motors, giving them more torque. This is why this machine is so great with even hard materials like aluminum. 

Furthermore, the main parts of the machine are all pre-assembled. So, setting up the machine takes only about 30 minutes. 

9. Powermatic PM 2X2R woodworking CNC machines - Best for easy control

The Powermatic PM 2X2R woodworking CNC machines are the next entry I want to discuss. The exclusive gravity-cast aluminum gantry provides excellent support to the spindle, while the precision ball screws provide rapid movement to the recirculating ball bearings. 

The flexible nylon track chains protect the cables from rubbing or stress. Additionally, the MDF spoil board helps avoid damage to the table and can also be resurfaced fast using the predetermined program. 

Even more, giving it a try showed me that the handheld controller can be attached to the DSP control box using any eight-foot-long cable. This means you can oversee your wood project from whichever angle you want. 

However, this highly accurate tool comes at a bit of a hefty cost. This machine is quite expensive. I recommend only professionals buy this for very technical and precise work. 

What are the best CNC routers for precision woodworking?

Embark on precision woodworking with our curated list of CNC routers, each boasting unique features designed to elevate your projects. From spindle power to precision accuracy, these machines offer versatility and control for crafting intricate designs on various materials. Discover the ideal CNC router to enhance your woodworking endeavors with ease and precision.

Buyer’s guide to purchasing CNC machines

CNC wood-cutting machines are available in many different shapes, sizes, and variations. And they can also be quite expensive, as you might have noticed. So, it is very important to know which is the right one for you before you risk splurging. I can understand if you’re confused by the whole speeds and feeds of it all. 

If you are clueless about how to choose a CNC router kit for yourself, don't worry! Here is a list of pointers to help you get the right information and know which factors you should consider before you buy yourself a wood CNC router. 

1. Spindle/Router

Even though woodworking does not require a lot of torque, you should still consider getting a wood CNC router with a high RPM. This will help to increase the speed of wood-cutting with just a click of a switch. If you compromise too much on the power of the machine, it could possibly impact the finish. 

Other than that, the spindles can have two types of cooling systems: air-cooled and water-cooled. An air-cooled spindle is less expensive and simpler since it just makes use of a single fan to cool down the spindle. 

A water-cooled spindle, on the other hand, uses, well, water cooling to cool down. This is good for when the spindle speed is very high. It has higher longevity and higher accuracy and makes less noise than the air-cooled system. 

2. Drive systems

The two basic types of transmission drive systems used in CNC machines are screw drives and rack drives. The screw drives are less durable and long-lasting. They tend to get loose over time and might require tightening every now and then if required. 

A rack drive system, on the other hand, is much more precise and suitable for complicated tasks. Although it costs more, it also lasts longer and has higher speeds. This drive will enable a greater engraving depth than the screw drive system. 

3. Software

Since the whole point of buying a wood CNC router is its automatic wood cutting, it is important for you to consider the software of the machine before you buy it. So, to take full advantage of the automated process, you need to make sure that you understand the software used by the machine. 

The software used by the machine should be compatible with your own desktop computer. Make sure that the software is enabled to work with your computer’s OS (operating system), whether it’s Windows or MacOS. You definitely don’t want to buy a machine that is incompatible or too technical for you to use since that goes against the entire point of the CNC machine. 

4. Electric motor

There are usually two types of motors used in CNC machines: stepper motors and servo motors. 

Servo motors are the more expensive option, but it is definitely worth the high cost. It cuts wood with high precision, can withstand high speeds, and can also bear overload for a long period of time. It is also a lot more steady and quiet than stepper motors. 

Since the productivity of the wood-cutting machine increases with the speed of the motor, a servomotor definitely helps to increase the efficiency of the machine. 

A stepper motor, on the other hand, is the more common and less expensive option. It is the best option in terms of cost and is great for basic plane engraving. These motors are durable and reliable and will work out for most of your woodworking projects. 

5. Effective engraving area

A woodworking project might include a small woodwork piece or a large woodwork piece. Either way, you need to make sure that your wood CNC router can accommodate wood pieces of a large size. 

Many of the CNC machines also allow you to attach extended tables to increase the effective workspace. This way, you will be able to customize your wood CNC router to include larger wood pieces as well. However, even though you can increase the length of the effective engraving area this way, the width might still be a limiting factor. 

So, depending on your woodworking needs, make sure you buy the machine that would suit the size of your wood pieces. 

6. Axis

There are different types of space axes you can choose when you buy a wood CNC router. You can choose from a 3-axis, 4-axis, and 5-axis wood CNC router. The type of machine you buy depends on the kind of woodworking you are doing. 

A 3-axis wood CNC machine is great for simple woodworking procedures like cutting key clots, drilling shallow holes, or simple plane engraving and grinding. 

A 4-axis machine is good when you want to work on cylindrical pieces. Additionally, if you want to cut the same mark on each surface of a block, a 4-axis wood CNC router will cut out your work for you (pun intended), as it will help avoid the process of remounting. 

A 5-axis wood CNC router, on the other hand, is great for incredibly complex and high-quality work. Although they can be quite pricey, they are great for when you want to carve out intricate and detailed woodwork in a single operation. 

7. Dust collector

Many of these machines also come with a dust collector or a dustpan to collect any dust feedback. So, make sure the one you buy has an easy-to-use dust collector.

What is a wood CNC machine?

A wood CNC machine is an automated tool that operates using Computer Numeric Code to facilitate computer-aided design. It enables drilling, cutting, laser engraving, milling, grooving, and wood carving on various materials such as plywood, plastic, PVC, resin, acrylic, glass, brass, copper, and aluminum.

How does a CNC router differ from a handheld router?

A CNC router differs from a handheld router by offering enhanced precision during wood-cutting processes. It minimizes human errors, making it ideal for producing identical cuts across multiple pieces. Although a CNC router initially costs more than a handheld router, its long-term benefits in terms of productivity and cost-efficiency outweigh the initial investment.

How should I maintain my CNC router machine?

To properly maintain a CNC router machine, it is essential to keep the controls and bearings free from wood chips and debris. Regular lubrication of moving parts, turning off the machine when not in use, and protecting it from power surges or connector damage is crucial.

Regularly cleaning air filters in the vacuum table, vacuum pump, and control box, as well as promptly replacing any damaged parts, helps prevent further harm to the machine.

Is programming knowledge required to operate a CNC machine?

No, programming knowledge or advanced programming skills are not required to operate a CNC machine. Most CNC machines utilize user-friendly software that generates the required code automatically. This allows customization of designs and machine operations according to specific requirements.

What is the lifespan of a CNC machine?

The lifespan of a CNC machine depends on its usage and maintenance. Small models, when used properly, can last approximately 10-15 years, while industrial models have the potential to endure for several decades.

How much does a wood CNC router cost?

The cost of a wood CNC router varies depending on the type. In the market, you can find basic 3-axis models ranging from $1000 to $10,000, midrange machines priced between $20,000 and $50,000, and advanced 4-axis and 5-axis machines costing over $50,000. It is worth noting that CNC routers can be quite expensive, even the lowest-priced options tend to start around a thousand dollars.

It is now time to declare the winners of this list. The Genmitsu 3018 PRO CNC machine is the best wood CNC machine for beginners. It is durable and extremely easy to use. Plus, it is the cheapest option on the list. On the other hand, the Genmitsu 3018 PROver is a little more expensive and is one of the best options available in the market for professionals. Another good option is the MYSWEETY 4050 wood CNC machine with its efficient 3-axis model. 

So, if you were considering getting a CNC machine, consider this the signal! Still confused? Go through the buyer’s guide again and see what factors meet your needs specifically.