Whether you’re a hobbyist or a woodworking professional, having the right CNC milling machine that suits your needs can be handy and is a good way to improve your productivity. However, choosing the right CNC milling machine is not always easy. But, you should stop worrying about that because we have arranged the “Best CNC Mill Under 10k” list just for you!
What Type of Materials a CNC Mill Operates On?
Before we jump right ahead into the list, we will first talk about CNC milling machines’ basics. We will start with what type of materials a CNC mill operates on.
The possibilities here are basically endless. A CNC mill can handle various materials starting from woods, plastics to metals. Some CNC mill users from the internet even reported using CNC mills to do their wax projects.
Wood is a very popular choice among CNC mill users. The most common ones are pine and cherry. These two wood types are known for their textures and grain patterns.
Along with wood, a lot of CNC mill users also use plastic in their projects. Many of them choose plastic because it is lightweight and tough at the same time.
A CNC mill can easily and quickly cut through plastic materials, making it more time and cost-efficient than other materials. Two of the most common plastic types for a CNC mill use are Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and plastic acrylic sheets.
For the metal category, aluminum is the most favorable one. Many CNC mill users pick up aluminum because it is strong, easy to work with, and recyclable.
CNC Routers vs. CNC Mills: The Differences
Some of you who are still new to CNC machines may be confused about the differences between the two categories.
Both machines are controlled using computers. They work by moving a cutting device around a surface based on a computer-aided design. Even so, both machines are not interchangeable. They were built for different materials and different purposes.
CNC routers were built for soft materials and rapid production processes. You cannot use hard steel and titanium with CNC routers. They are typically used to cut and shape gentle materials such as wood, PVC, and acrylic.
CNC routers also work at a much faster rate compared to CNC routers. This is why routers are more suitable for rapid production processes. Still, routers should not be expected to create delicate incisions and meticulous forms.
If you want to do heavy-duty jobs, then you have to use a CNC mill. With a CNC mill, you can easily make any form with hard materials like alumina, copper alloys, and even stainless steel.
Compared to CNC routers, CNC mills have much better precision. CNC mills are capable of making a detailed cut within 1/1000 inch. This makes CNC mills a go-to tool for producing delicate cuts and detailed shapes with harder materials.
5 Best CNC Mills under 10k
Now that we talked about CNC mills, the materials they operate on, and their differences with CNC routers, it’s time for us to talk about the five best products in the industry that are priced under the $10,000 limit.
Tormach PCNC 440
Tormach claimed that the PCNC 440 was specifically designed to cut metals. One best thing about this CNC mill is its size. It is very compact, and it will fit right in even if you don’t have a big workstation.
But, it doesn’t mean that you get a limited work area with this machine. You get 10 inches travel distance for the X and Z axes and 6.25 inches for the Y-axis.
Also, Tormach offers you a budget-friendly personalized package so that you can customize the machine to suit your purposes.
Stepcraft D.840 CNC
The strong point of this German-engineered product lies in its adaptability. You can instantly remove and reinstall attachments and quickly change from milling to other modes like laser engraving, 3D printing, etc.
Furthermore, by paying just a few extra dollars, you can upgrade the basic HPL worktop to an aluminum T-slot table.
Bolton Tools M4A
With its great track record for producing sturdy mill, drill, and lathe combo tools, we must say it is just hard to top the Bolton M4A.
Equipped with 3 axes, a 15-3/4 by 5-1/2 workspace, and a generic CNC system that is pretty straightforward to work with, it will be effortless for you to create precise cuttings using Bolton M4A.
And, the brushless motor in this machine runs quietly. So, you don’t have to worry about waking your neighbor up from their afternoon nap.
Taig 5019DSLS Micro Mill
This machine comes in a complete package out of the store. Stepper motors, CNC application, and controller, you get them all at once!
You should also take a good look at its traverse speed. With the DSLS control and 200 oz-in motors, it can reach up to 100 inches per minute.
When it comes to building quality, this CNC mill is a value for money. Made with anodized aluminum and hard steel, Taig 5019DSLS Micro Mill will totally last for a long time.
CNC Supra Vertical Knee
This product will suit you who are looking for a cost-effective way to make a product prototype. This tool is easy to understand and operate, so it should only take a while to get the hang of it. Besides, it is made from cast iron. Thus, you don’t have to ask again about its durability.
More importantly, CNC Supra promises you a reliable customer service team. Whenever you face trouble with the machine, help is just one call away.With its practicality, affordability, and great customer support, there’s no doubt that CNC Supra Vertical Knee is included on this list.
Final Remarks
A CNC mill is a great investment for you woodworking professionals and enthusiasts. It will help you cut and shape materials for your projects in a more efficient way.
If you’re looking for a more economical option, you can start with one from the five CNC mills above. Pick one that you think can meet your needs best.