Whether you're looking for tips on choosing a CNC router to add to your business or home workshop, there are specific things you'll need to keep in mind as you research. Here are the most relevant considerations:
Drive System
Your drive system moves your CNC router's axes. It's comprised of the motor, ball screw, lead screw, or rack and pinions, working together to transfer controlled linear motion. CNC machines offer a choice of three types of drive systems:
Rack and Pinions work best on longer axes and are less costly. The meshing of the two gear-like components moves the machine tool.
Lead Screws are typically more accurate than the rack and pinion but don't work as well as ball screws. They do work well for vertical applications (Z-axis).
Ball screws are the most expensive of the drive systems but will machine your parts with greater accuracy and efficiency.
Motor System
You will find two main motor systems in most CNC router machines: the stepper motor system or the servo motor system.
Stepper motor systems are sometimes referred to as open-loop control motors. Stepper motors rotate (step) from one position to another, are less expensive, and are better for low-to-medium-speed applications.
Servo motor systems are often called closed-loop systems, are more expensive than steppers, but work well in high-speed, high-torque applications.
CNC Router's Weight
Heavier machines generally provide heavy-duty performance, less vibration, and accurate machining. However, think about a desktop CNC router if you plan to transport your CNC machine frequently. Keep in mind that lightweight benchtop models have a smaller working area that restricts the type of work you can do.
Electrical Requirements
Determine the electrical capabilities of your shop since some routers are designed to work only with specific voltages. Make sure you have three-phase power, or you'll need to install it if you buy a more sophisticated model. If you want a desktop model, it most likely will come with single-phase power and work in your home shop.
Software Requirements
Consider the software requirements of the CNC router. You might want to choose a software package specific to your business, such as software for cabinet making or engraving.
Budget
Your budget is a critical factor when searching for a CNC router. Depending on whether you want the machine tool for a small business, a large shop, or to pursue a hobby, prices will vary substantially. Also, include the cost of accessories, such as collets and router bits, in your estimation.
Brand
There are dozens of companies to choose from when buying a CNC router machine. While the considerations above are most important, many amateur hobbyists or home machinists start their journey on Amazon.
Accessories
If you're buying a new router, check to see what accessories it comes with and which ones you'll need to buy. Accessories like automatic tools changers, end mills, dust collection units, vacuum systems, computers, and software upgrades may not be included with your CNC router machine and can add additional costs new buyers should be aware of.
Your Uses
Before you spend tens of thousands on a machine, consider your likeliest uses. If you're a machinist, the smaller less heavy-duty CNC routers likely won't hold up to the everyday demands of a shop. If you're interested in starting a woodworking business, do you need to upgrade to a machine with more power than smaller desktop routers? For the skilled amateur, you might consider building your own router or buying a cheap used one to see how you like it.
