When it comes to woodworking, you may notice that a wood router is a vital tool that a woodworker could have ever used. Routers have been very useful for cutting applications on tons of project materials, including softwood, hardwood, and plastics. If you’re looking for a router that can also tackle projects that are based on aluminum and PVC materials, we suggest that you go search up about CNC routers.
In this article, we’re going to discuss what a CNC router is, what factors you need to check if you want one, and our product recommendation for you, featuring BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit. Read on!
What’s a CNC Machine?
From the abbreviation, Computer Numerical Control, a CNC machine utilizes the power of an installed program on your computer in order to work. The process of working with this unit is very easy and convenient compared to using traditional wood routers because it only requires you to input your desired design to the program, and leave the machine to work. A CNC router is frequently compared to a 3D printer because of its similarities in its primary functions, but a CNC machine can cater to a broader range of materials.
Factors to Consider when Getting a CNC Machine
Although these units come as a fresh invention in the industry, there are several models that you can choose from. Most models cost a fortune, and that’s why you must avoid choosing the wrong one. The details below will serve as your guide to help you make the right choice when purchasing.
Price
As mentioned, most units of CNC machines are not that budget-friendly. The prices are as low as $200 and as high as $1500. The cost of each device depends on the features and its primary purpose. Before you purchase, make sure that you’ve assessed your budget well and came into terms as to how much you’re willing to spend for a CNC router machine.
Utilized Software
CNC routers are controlled with the use of different computer programs. The units have different ranges of compatibility when it comes to software. In this factor, you’ll also check if your laptop or computer is ready for CNC router control. Additionally, you’ll find out which programs you need to have for each machine unit.
Types of Project
A CNC machine is one of those tools that are supposedly meant for routing but can be used to make several other cutting applications on different mediums. Most CNC routers are designed explicitly for all-around use, while others have a limited set of features and capabilities. Some are for just one type of material, and the rest can handle another array of project mediums. Here, you need to assess the kind of query that you mainly work on, and match it to a specific CNC router.
Router Speed
A CNC machine also has varying speed rates. For this factor, the spindle that comes equipped with the unit is at play. Like the standard and traditional wood router, the speed of a CNC router dictates the bit sizes and cutting techniques. Check the spindle rate of your potential unit and make sure that it matches your cutting and engraving needs.
Connectivity
This factor doesn’t affect the performance of a CNC router that much; this is mostly based on the user preference and the convenience factor. A CNC machine is connected to the computer either through a USB port connection or through Bluetooth connectivity. Users prefer the wireless Bluetooth connection because of its convenience and added neat factor in the workspace because there are less cables scattered around. On the other hand, choosing to make a USB connection from the machine to the computer doesn’t make a difference for the router.
Product Review
For this section, the product we recommend you is the BobsCNC Evolution 4 Router Kit. Learn more about this model’s features, software compatibility, and technical specs in our Bobs CNC review below:
About Bob’s CNC Evolution 4 Router
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This CNC model from Bobs comes with the DeWalt DW600 router. The unit is powered by a 5.0 amp motor that can kick out a maximum speed of 30,000 RPM, which allows you to work on a broader scale of routing and engraving projects. It doesn’t require additional tools for bit changes so that you won’t have to get the wrench every time you need to change and adjust your bits. It has a slim design that allows it to be ergonomic enough to withstand work fatigue from extended usage. Lastly, it has dust-sealed switches to protect the internal components of the tool from dust ingestion.
Durability
With the quality of the material that this model is constructed of, you can really expect to work with the BobsCNC E4 for a long time. The unit has a laser-cut frame and is also made of superior quality birch wood to provide you with an overall elegant look while providing you durability for much longer usage that can withstand tears from frequent operations.
Size
The BobsCNC E4 is commonly compared to the E3 and is deemed to be better because of its large cutting area. You have a 24-inch x 24-inch space, leaving you enough space to work on large-scale projects. Overall, the unit has a dimension of 30 x 37.2 x 18.9 inches, and approximately weighs around 42 lbs; this makes the BobsCNC E4 easy to find a spot for in the area of your workshop.
Software Compatibility
The unit utilizes a GRBL firmware that works smoothly with Arduino Uno microprocessor. Generally, different models brought by Bobs CNC are known to be flexible when it comes to finding a set of compatible programs to make the units run; this means that the E4 is no exception to this. You can use a wide range of software to manipulate the router, including EstlCAM, VCarve, and Aspire.
Price and Warranty
The BobsCNC E4 is available on the BobsCNC official website for $1098.00, which may seem to be on the pricier side. While that’s true, its features and work performance make it worth the penny for both novice and professionals in the woodworking industry. As for its warranty, BobsCNC offers a 60-day warranty period and 30-day return policy for this unit.
Conclusion
If your business or line of work consists of having you finishing large-scale projects, your job will become much easier with the use of BobsCNC E4. The unit guarantees to deliver neat outputs and convenience to your workshop, so we think that the E4 will be a great addition to your workshop.