An affordable cnc machine is a must for your DIY work area if you want to make 2D and 3D designs.
The great thing about these cutting and engraving tools is that you can use them for soft metals, plastics, soft and hard wood, and other soft materials.
In this post, you’ll find the 7 best budget cnc router machines with a break down of the features and the price range for each. Get started with my top picks just below.
Masuter 4040
Easy to assemble option that has great value for money.
Evolution 4
Great for engraving wood and plastics.
Genmitsu 3018-PROVer
Desktop CNC machine with controls at your fingertips.
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List of Best Cheap CNC Machines
1. FoxAlien Masuter 4040 CNC Router Machine
This is a budget-friendly CNC router that can be used to engrave and cut wood, resin or MDF. It has a large working area of 400 x 380 x 55mm (15.75” x 14.96” x 2.16”). It uses a 60W spindle and NEMA17 stepper motors.
Pros:
- Easy to assemble
- Great value for money
- Known to have good customer service
Cons:
- Offline controller is not included
2.Fox Alien Desktop CNC Router Machine 3018-SE V2
If you’re looking for a machine that will easily fit on your desk, then the Fox Alien Desktop CNC router is for you. It’s capable of engraving and carving wood, acrylic, plastics and aluminum.
The all-round protective case keeps dust and woodchips from scattering about. The case also protects you from the high-speed rotating spindle.
Pros:
- Includes a compact controller box with an integrated emergency stop
- Optimized assembly method with pre-installed parts
Cons:
- Offline controller is not included
3.FoxAlien HW40 CNC hot wire cutting machine
Get ready for something a little different with the FoxAlien HW40 CNC hot wire cutting machine. Instead of being used for wood, this cnc machine uses heating resistance wire to cut foam materials.
The active working area is 400x400mm (15.75×15.75 inches). It’s a larger machine that requires a bit more space.
It is a great tool for both DIY makers and professionals because it can be adapted for home use and use in a small shop.
Imagine being able to make model foam decorations and props for parties, weddings, holidays, and classroom activities. Not only that, but you’ll also be able to make branding and marketing items for business use.
Pros:
- Cuts foam projects quickly and cleanly
- Compatible with Inkscape open source free software for 2D files
Cons:
- 3D software is not included
4.BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit
If you are looking for a wood carving CNC then this is the one to get. You can use it for cutting and engraving wood and plastics.
Some of the features are:
- a rigid laser cut 5-Ply Baltic Birch frame with SG20U supported rail system
- GT2 belt drive on X and Y-axis
- home switches on the x and y axes
5.SainSmart Genmitsu 3018-PROVer Desktop CNC Router Machine
An entry-level CNC engraving machine for anyone who wants to learn a new skill, work on an artwork project, design a DIY gift, or start a small business.
It has an all-aluminum alloy body which gives it added stability for working with larger projects in a wide range of materials.
The acrylic barriers keep dust contained and also make for easy clean-up.
Pros:
- uses open source cnc software
- Includes motion control software: GRBL 1.1
Cons
- medium to complex assembly (but video tutorials are available)
6. Mcwdoit 2-in-1 7000 m W 3018 Pro CNC Router Kit
The Mcwdoit 3018Pro engraver can be controlled by GRBL software and offline manual control. Knowing how to create Gcode is required. If you are new to cnc routers, be aware that there is a learning curve where the Gcode is concerned.
Once you’re up to speed with creating Gcode, you’ll be ready to cut and engrave a variety of materials with this kit.
The machine is capable of engraving wood, bamboo, plastic, acrylic, MDF, PCB and soft aluminum at high speeds.
It can also cut through thin wood, bamboo, plastic, acrylic, MDF, PCB.
Pros:
- CNCSpindle Motor — 3 Axis engraving
- Offline controller capacity of 1G
Cons:
- May need to replace spare parts (i.e. usb cable, fan)
7. Kocriz 2 in 1 CNC 3018 Pro Router Machine
The new 3018PRO has a more stable and reasonable mechanical structure. The spindle motor holder and bottom bearings are made of premium 3D die-cast plastic for durability.
The new shock-absorbing 3D punching clamp effectively relieves the vibration of spindle speed.
Tools and Optional Supplies
Optional Supplies: If you’re not ready to get a cnc machine, then a Cricut machine is an excellent option. It’s a high quality cutting tool known for its ease of use. The Cricut brand has numerous machines that are popular for making diy projects.
What can you build with a CNC router?
- Toys
- Puzzles
- Door hangers
- Clocks
- Foam sports fan finger
- Christmas decorations
Want to save this for later? Pin it to your favorite DIY board on Pinterest!
Feel free to add a picture of your craft or to write a comment if you tried it.
More creative craft ideas!
If you loved this list, I hope you will try my other easy DIY craft ideas!
You can find ideas for what you can make with a cnc engraving machine in any of these other posts: 50 Best Crafts to 3D Print and Sell, 20 HTV On Wood Projects, 7 Best Laser Cutting Woods for Crafts
