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6 Best Cheap CNC Router 2024 – Affordable, Budget, Low Cost Machines

Best Cheap CNC Router

Technology and innovation are amazing things, but CNC technology is truly a wonderment itself.

Now, Man can make things that he dreamt of hundred of years ago.

Wood carving, cutting was a skill only known by a few but now with the help of woodwork gadgets, you can easily create anything you want.

All you will need is a factory-quality metal or wood engraving machine under the four walls of your home or a small office.

Don’t worry, you don’t have large sums of money to spend on the best equipment available because we are here with good news for you.

Cheap CNC routers kits for woodworkers have got you covered.

CNC wood carving routers are available in a budget-friendly price range.

It can guarantee increased productivity rates and produce consistent and exact results.

That way, not only will you achieve your desired result but will also not go bankrupt. 

Best Cheap CNC Router

A CNC router for daily tasks is an absolute must-have for any woodworker who does modeling, carving, slicing, or engraving jobs.

CNC routers have revolutionized how modern artisans think about, handle, and make metal and wood carvings.

With a CNC wood carving router machine, you can create any shape that comes to mind.

The machines are programmed with G and M codes, to cut or create many types of metals, plastics, woods, and other materials using your computer.

Why spend thousands of dollars on CNC routers when you can acquire identical CNC machines for half a fraction of the cost?

Yes! You can easily find affordable CNC router kits for woodworkers.

Once it comes to purchasing a CNC machine, there are various things to consider.

You should consider the machine’s operating area, specifications, suitable materials, security measures, usability, and control options, for example.

Most significantly, you’ll want to choose a CNC machine that is within your budget.

Editors Pick: VEVOR CNC ROUTER MACHINE 3018

Our Top Pick
VEVOR CNC ROUTER MACHINE 3018
9.7/10 Our Score

Specifications:

  • It supports a large workspace
  • It has a powerful motor that can produce up to 8000RPM spindle spins
  • Materials such as metal, stone, and wood can be engraved
  • Features a long-lasting durable design

VEVOR CNC router machine 3018 is a multipurpose device that can be used for art, research, industry, and teaching purposes. You must be wondering how one machine has so many features! Its small size helped it make the top ten list of best CNC routers. This gadget is required for engraving on various materials to achieve a beautiful finish because the spindle may run between 300 and 8,000 RPM. This machine, which weighs over 43.7 pounds and has a 3D capability, allows users to build prototypes, artwork, marketing signs, and much more.

Best Cheap CNC Router Kit for Woodworkers 2024

IMAGE PRODUCT RATING PRICE
TOP PICK
cheap cnc mill
VEVOR CNC ROUTER MACHINE 3018
9.7
Check on Amazon
PREMIUM PICK
cheap cnc machine for wood
GENMITSU CNC 3018-PRO ROUTER GRBL
9.3
Check on Amazon
cheap cnc machine for metal DIY MINI CNC 3018 PRO 3 AXIS CNC ROUTER KIT
9.5
Check on Amazon
Cheap CNC MACHINE 2023 MYSWEETY PRO DIY VERSION ENGRAVER CNC MACHINE 3018
8.6
Check on Amazon
cheap cnc machine for aluminum DIY MINI PRO MILLING 1610 MACHINE
8.7
Check on Amazon
Cheap CNC Router MOPHORN CNC ROUTER 3018 ENGRAVING MACHINE
8.7
Check on Amazon

1. VEVOR CNC Router Machine 3018 – Best Cheap CNC Router

VEVOR CNC Router Machine 3018

VEVOR CNC router machine 3018 is a multipurpose device that can be used for art, research, industry, and teaching purposes.

You must be wondering how one machine has so many features!

Its small size helped it make the top six list of best cheap CNC routers.

This gadget is required for wood and metal engraving to achieve a beautiful finish because the router spindle may run between 300 and 8,000 RPM.

This machine, which weighs over 43.7 pounds and has a 3D capability, allows users to build prototypes, artwork, marketing signs, and much more.

Because of the thorough instructions supplied in the manual, this CNC machine is a fantastic alternative because it is ready to use for people without much training.

The machine has a large work-table with travel in the X, Y, and Z directions of 200, 300, and 65 millimeters.

The machine structure is composed of aluminum alloys, making it extremely sturdy.

The upper end of the motor speed is a very impressive 8000 PRM (lowest is 300rpm).

Standard G-code files, such as *Nc, * tap, and other tool path document guidelines, are also supported, making it easy to run as per the customer’s needs.

Product Features

  • It supports a large workspace
  • It has a powerful motor that can produce up to 8000RPM spindle spins
  • Materials such as metal, stone, and wood can be engraved 
  • Features a long-lasting durable design
Pros
  • The router supports breakpoint carvings
  • It has a spindle-switch control
  • The customized keyboard carvings are supported by it
  • Spiral bits can be used by the router
Cons
  • The router is incompatible with the personal computer

Summary

The router has an effective use for more than one purpose.

It is more of an all-rounder.

With a powerful motor, it is there for heavy and creative work.

So, if you’re into buying all in one machine, this one will be a perfect choice for you.


2. Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router GRBL – best Affordable CNC Machine

cheap cnc machine

The Genmitsu CNC router, or also called as Genmitsu milling and engraving machine is one of the best CNC machines for beginners, and it’s a fantastic way to begin learning about CNC.

The updated power adapter that arrives with CE, FCE, and UL certifications is an indication of top quality. 

Furthermore, the Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO CNC machine supports a built-in integrated circuit layout that prevents the power adapter from overheating and enables it to continue functioning and charging stably.

It can be operated remotely and has a controller module that can be used offline.

In addition, to improve performance and stability, the mainboard has been modified to feature an ABS enclosure and fan.

Being Arduino and GRBL open-source platforms based it makes things a lot easier for its users. 

It has a 1.8-inch maximum engraving depth which can cut all types of materials.

This CNC router is a more powerful version of the 3018.

Product Features

  • It has a 20,000rpm Spindle
  • This router uses a GRBL
  • It Runs on Arduino, as well. 
  • The machine kit Includes CARVECO Maker CAM Design Software
  • Supports a 3040 Aluminum Spoil board B08VNLP24C
  • Compatible with 3040 MDF Spoil board 
  • It comes with a user guide 
  • It has a 1.8-inch router depth 
  • It comes with an integrated circuit
Pros
  • The customer service is amazing
  • It has an amazing customer service
  • This CNC router is worth the money
  • It has an adapter for protection and smooth running
  • It can be used remotely as well as offline
  • It is easy to assemble
  • It has accuracy and versatility
Cons
  • It is suspected that the package of this router might come with some machine parts that are missing

Summary

This router kit is for woodworkers who love milling and machining.

If you’re someone who does woodwork as a hobby, you should go for this machine as it will help you cater your creativity.


3. DIY Mini CNC 3018 Pro 3 axis CNC Router Kit – Best DIY Cheap Machine

Cheap cnc machine for metal

Did anyone say DIY? Yes, we did.

This is a DIY router kit with a spindle motor of 12 to 36 Volts and a stepper motor as well.

Because of this, it runs fasts.

The best thing about this router kit is that it is portable.

You can take this anywhere and start working.

Imagine, how great it would be to find a peaceful spot near the lake and work on your woodwork designs.

Being DIY gives a boost to your creativity. 

It is termed as a great machine for beginners as it is easy to install and provides stable work.

It comes with a 4GB USB Flash drive.

The structure of this router kit is hard.

It works efficiently with soft metals such as brass and copper and other similar materials.

The router kit comes with an installation guide as well as a user manual.

The company also provides worth mentioning customer service.

The only drawback it has is that it is incompatible with the Mac and Apple products.

Other than that, it is lightweight, small, and a smart machine. 

Product Features

  • It has a stepper motor of 1.3 ampere 
  • Comes with window Xp Sp3, Window 7,8,9 and 10
  • It has a spindle motor 
  • The kit has a 4Gb USB 
  • Workable on materials like wood, PVC, acrylic 
  • Has a frame size of 40 x 33 x 24 centimeters 
  • It has GRBL control systems 
Pros
  • It is portable
  • It is light in weight
  • It has smart features
  • Comes with manual
  • It has a stable structure
  • It is easy to install
Cons
  • Doesn’t support Mac/Apple

Summary

If you are looking for a portable CNC router kit then, this one is the best choice you have.


4. MYSWEETY Pro DIY CNC Engraver Machine 3018 Mini 3 Axis – Low Cost CNC

cheap cnc machine for wood

It’s impossible to not mention MYSWEETY when it comes to producing some high-quality and affordable CNC routers in the market.

This company not only makes a reliable CNC machine but also one that is reasonably priced. One of the reasons woodwork enthusiasts enjoys it is because of this.  

Let’s see, what this router offers.

The machine’s design and body are pleasing, making it a desirable piece of equipment.

The body is made of a combination of metal and plastic for added toughness, so you can be sure it will endure a long time.

With a combination of metal and plastic characteristics in the frame, it is extremely like the previous router.

MYSWEETY’s working area is way smaller which is around160 x 100 x 45 in millimeters, but it has 3-axis functionality on the board.

Aside from the smaller working surface, the machine is excellent in just about every other way.

It etched well on wood, acrylics, PVC, and other materials.

It’s also simple to use and put together.

So, you don’t have to waste hours assembling a CNC router for yourself.

The surprising thing that this router has is that it can easily be upgraded into a better version by changing the parts of the router and replacing them with more up-to-date parts.

Product Features

  • It has an offline controller
  • The Spindle motor is of 12 to 36 V
  • It can engrave plastic, wood, PVC, and acrylic 
  • It supports Windows XP,7,8,9 and 10
  • It has an integrated driver chip 
  • It has a heat sink that is fixed
  • It contains a short circuit protection system 
  • It has a sturdy body 
Pros
  • It has a smart design
  • It has a relatively sturdy structure
  • It works efficiently at an affordable price
  • This router works on a wide variety of materials
  • It is convenient to assemble
  • It can be upgraded with limit switches
Cons
  • It has a small working area as compared to other router kits

Summary

Although the MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine has a small working surface, it can handle any little engraving assignment.

The CNC machine has good specifications and is simple to operate, so enthusiasts with little experience with CNC engraving will have no trouble using it.


5. DIY Mini Pro Milling 1610 machine GRBL 3 axis Control CNC router kit – Budget CNC

cheap cnc machine for aluminum

This is an excellent machine for anyone searching for a low-cost option.

However, the performance of this machine is comparable to that of high-end machines.

This router has a working area of 160 x 100 x 45 mm.

This isn’t optimal for easily doing all the tasks.

It can be used on a variety of materials, including plastic, PVC, PCB, wood, and many more.

The GRBL software is used on this router, and it is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows 7, 8, and 10.

Black and silver are the two colors offered for this machine.

The router kit includes a GBRL control board that supports smooth running.

It also has a cooling fan that is useful when the workload is heavy, and your CNC router is from dusk till dawn.

If the router heats up during extensive woodwork, the cooling fan cools the kit down.

This router kit is easy to assemble and disassemble.

You don’t need a computer to connect it.

Hence, the feature of this router kit is that it can be taken anywhere.

It offers great flexibility and versatility.

Product Features

  • It has a GRBL control system 
  • Comes with a cooling fan 
  • The router has a USB cable for attachment 
  • It comes with a user manual 
  • It provides a 3-axis control and spile 
  • It is best for engraving 
  • It has an input voltage of 12 to 24 V
Pros
  • The router is easy to operate
  • It has a cooling fan
  • It gives great flexibility
  • It has a smart structure
  • It doesn’t need the computer for connection
  • It comes in a variety of colors to choose from
  • Compatible with windows
  • It has a GBRL system
Cons
  • It needs an SD card reader to read files

Summary

Having smart size, easily operate able and flexible, this router kit comes with more benefits than other pricey router kits.


6. Mophorn CNC router 3018 Engraving machine – Best Inexpensive CNC Machine

MOPHORN CNC ROUTER ENGRAVING MACHINE

The Mophorn CNC router has an external dimension of 40x30x24 in centimeters and is built of aluminum and black injection molding material.

It has a smooth and ergonomic design that is ideal for modest projects.

The router is simple to assemble and comes with a top-quality GRBL controller unit that supports a 12-volt laser, 3-axis control (X, Y, and Z), and offline functionality, which allows you to run the machine without needing to access the computer.

Wood, plastics, soft aluminum, acrylics, PVCs, PCBs, and other similar materials can all be carved out using this machine.

Not only that, but the Mophorn also includes T8 screw rod drive units and three 42 stepper motors, as well as a 775 24-volt spindle motor that spins at 10,000 revolutions per minute.

There’s also PWM and TTL support, which provides the laser more precision and control.

To be more specific, the engraver’s positioning precision ranges from 0.08 to 0.1 mm.

Finally, you can easily control the machine from a computer by connecting it through USB and specifying the engravings with the GRBL programmed.

Product Features

  • Its driving unit has T8 screw rods
  • It has three, 42 stepper motors
  • The rotational speed is 10000 rad per minute 
  • GRBL control system 
  • Offline and remote system 
  • Compatible with window XP,7,8,9,10
  • The frame has fixed parts
  • The external dimension is 26x24x22 in centimeters
Pros
  • It is durable
  • It has a T8 screw which is stainless
  • It has an ergonomic design
  • The machine is easy to assemble
  • Compatible with Windows and Linux
  • It has a stepper motor
  • It has an offline controller
  • It has a spindle motor
Cons
  • It doesn’t have a cooling system

Summary

Being durable with GRBL and an offline control system, this router can be used anywhere even if you’re not connected to the internet.

Hence this makes this router a great pick as it has all the necessary features and systems.

Buying Guide for Best Cheap CNC Router

When it comes to CNC routers for small projects and workshops, there are several models to choose from.

There is a lot of rivalry in the market because different brands release new models regularly.

That’s why we’ve put up a comprehensive shopping guide to help you select the best cheap CNC router.

Nature of Your Project

Choose the best cheap CNC router that best fits the specifics of your project.

Figure out what you’re and then decide.

A heavy-duty CNC router, as well as a beginner-level machine, are available on the market.

You must enter the market with clear ideas about the types of jobs you want to do with the CNC router machine.

Router Motor

The motor is a vital aspect, and the torque is dependent on it. Even in affordable options look for the best router motor possible.

To get a rapid cutting speed, choose a CNC machine with a high-efficiency motor.

The vacuum pressure indicates how firmly the materials will cling to the CNC machine.

With a powerful vacuum system, you can hold heavy materials.

Drive System

Ball screw, lead screw, and rack & pinion CNC router machines are the three varieties available.

Choose the one that describes your requirements the best.

The ball screw, according to customer comments, can handle a variety of materials.

Compatibility

Your budget-friendly CNC router machine should connect to the computer.

For this, you’ll need software that keeps track of the processing throughout the procedure.

Make sure the computer you select is compatible with the software you’ll be using for your project.

Engraving Area

It is advised by the experts to purchase affordable CNC routers with a broad engraving surface because they can be used for a variety of projects.

Choose the best specification in your designated budget.


FAQs Regarding Best Cheap CNC Routers

Is a DIY router better or assembled?

It depends on personal preference.

Though we do think that it requires a lot of mind and time to assemble a router machine.

Hence, you should choose the DIY routers if you have prior experience in Woodwork industry. 

What are the best affordable CNC routers?

Although all the routers we have mentioned above are worth the price and affordable but there are the top three that serve more benefits than any other router on the list.

Our top router is ‘VEVOR CNC router machine 3018 ‘which is a multipurpose router used by wood artists and workers for research as well as art and educational purposes.

It has a small structure which is ideal.

This single machine has so many features that it is termed a woodworker’s ultimate dream.  

The second option is ‘DIY Mini 1610 Pro Milling machine 3 axis GRBL Control CNC router kit ‘. 

It is an excellent affordable router machine for everyone.

This router has a working area of 160 x 100 x 45 mm.

Gives a considerable amount of space to work easily and is good for all types of material such PCB, plastic, PVC and many other.

The cherry on the top comes in more than one color.

What more do you need? 

Conclusion

Selecting the best CNC router is a tiring task and we hope we have made things easier.

This requires a more sensible judgment and greater planning ahead of time, as well as, of course, a sufficient budget.

CNC routers that cost a lot of money are no longer a problem.

Overall, the CNC routers on our list offer the best value for money in terms of features, performance, quality, and price.

Whichever one you choose; will undoubtedly give you the best quality-to-price ratio.

So, what do you have to lose?

Now that you know which affordable CNC router is best for you, choose the best cheap CNC router from our top 6 list depending on your requirements.

Explore the New Metal/Woodworking World!

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