Are you trying to find desktop milling machine among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling desktop milling machine on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 16 hours of research and did 36 desktop milling machine tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best desktop milling machine you can buy today
- Pre-assembled Delivery: The CNC router machine, specifically, the ANNOYTOOLS 3018 PRO MAX, is delivered pre-assembled. With this upgrade, auxiliary installation tools are included, enabling you to complete the frame assembly within 15 minutes after unpacking, reducing setup complexities for beginners and saving time for seasoned users.
- Powerful Performance: Constructed with high-strength aluminum, this CNC machine for metal and woodworking is equipped with a standard 500W spindle and has an 80mm Z-axis travel upgrade for ample working space. It's ideal for drilling and engraving on copper, aluminum, and other metals. Our CNC router also supports a laser module, allowing direct spindle replacement.
- Detailed Design: For safety and prevention of abnormal machine conditions, our 3018 CNC machine features six limit switches and an emergency stop button. The XYZ axes come with manual handwheels for the swift and precise positioning of the machine's origin. Also, pre-drilled holes are included for future updates, keeping your machine up-to-date.
- Compatibility: Powered by the open-source firmware GRBL1.1f, our CNC machine utilizes an ARM32-bit framework chip for efficient and precise program processing. It supports GRBL open-source platform-based software like Candle and LaserGRBL, compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, 11, MAC, and Linux.
- Warranty: As the manufacturer of this wood CNC router machine, we provide reliable after-sales service, including free troubleshooting within one year, as well as permanent technical support and maintenance services.
- Precision Engineering: Equipped with a True-Inch X-Y table movement and imperial feed screws (.050 inches per turn), ensuring precise, inch-based adjustments without the hassle of metric conversions. R8 Spindle, Heavy-Duty Build, Precision for Small-Scale Machining
- Dual Functionality: Combines the capabilities of a drill press and milling machine, offering unparalleled versatility for drilling, end milling, and face milling tasks in one compact unit.
- Smooth, Quiet Operation: Belt-driven spindle system minimizes noise and simplifies maintenance, offering superior performance compared to older gear-driven models.
- Robust Versatility: With an R8 spindle taper, 500-watt motor, and spindle speeds up to 2500 RPM, handle a variety of materials and projects with ease—from metalwork to hobby crafting.
- Complete Accessory Kit: Includes essential tools like a 1/2" drilling chuck, R8 shank, T-nuts, drawbar, wrenches, and more, ensuring you're ready to start your projects right out of the box.
- Specifications Max. X-axis Travel ...... 8.5" (215.9mm) Max. Y-axis Travel ...... 4" (101.6mm) Max. Z-axis Travel ...... 7" (177.8mm) Headstock Tilt ............ -+ 45 degrees Motor Power ............... 500 watts Hours Power .............. 0.67 Spindle Speed ............ 0-2500 rpm Spindle Taper................. R8 Stock Chuck Taper ....... JT33 Drill Cuck Capacity ....... 1/2" (13mm) Endmill Capacity ........... 1/2" (13mm) Face Milling Capacity ... 1" (25.4mm) Total Gross weight ....... 127 lbs. T-Slots Specs ............... See Page 3 of Manual
- 【High Power Spindle & All-metal Body】: This 3020 PLUS CNC machine is solidly built with all-metal body structure and upgraded 500W 52mm spindle with E11 collet, more powerful and higher efficiency, making it possible to cut stainless steel, aluminum and other metals
- 【High Precision & Stability】: Without any plastic parts. The CNC router is equipped with solid dual steel linear guide rails which are 12mm thick and also come with bearing slides and and T8 lead screws. All-metal X-Z axis part, up to 73mm of vertical travel, more powerful stepper motor, all of these are designed to ensure the movement of the 3-axis faster and more stable, resulting in improved engraving accuracy
- 【Larger Working Area】: The working area of the 3020-PLUS router vs the 3018-PRO is larger, increased to 300*200*73mm(11.81*7.87*2.87inch). Our working table with a particular appearance has precise scale lines and a flat working surface, convenient for you to locate and measure the engraving material size. And the high quality emergency stop and 6 limit switches for all-around protection making it more safe to use
- 【Wide Compatibility & Easy to Assembly】: The CNC carving machine is compatible with GRBL software and supports Windows XP/7/8/10, Linux and Mac OS (a bit more complicated to operate compared to Windows). This unit is pre-assembled, It was easy to assemble out of the box with concise instructions
- 【Package Included】: Comes with everything you need. It's: all parts to assemble the 3020 PLUS CNC machine, offline controller, Z-probe, CNC router bits, clamp, and more. This is an extremely well-built, capable machine, works fantastically well. Also we are CNC experts, If any questions, please contact us as soon as possible!
- Structure Upgrade: Masuter Pro is an All-Aluminum CNC router machine. The Z-axis uses Linear Rail instead of rods and T8 lead screw, this greatly improves the stability and accuracy.
- Upgraded Controller Box: Compact controller box desgin. The emergency stop button and home button are more easily and more convenient to access. The control box is also dust-proof for easy maintenance.
- Compatibility Upgrade: Masuter Pro includes 2 spindle clamps: 52mm & 65mm. The 52mm clamp can accommodate the 60W spindle, 300W spindle and the FoxAlien 20W/40W modules. The 65mm clamp is for customized upgrade, such as 65mm router, 1.5KW spindle, etc. It also supports the 69mm spindle clamp, please buy separately.
- Assembly Upgrade: Main parts are pre-assembled, and the part of the wires are pre-wired to the controller box. A detailed assembly guide is included. We provide step by step assembly manual.It takes only 10-15 minutes to fully assemble.
- Large Engraving Area: The active working area is 15.75” x 15.75” x 2.36” (400 x 400 x 60mm). It is large enough for daily woodworking. It supports extension kit to enlarge the working area. It supports Y-axis entension kit.
- Built for Power Users: Compatible with Mach3, DrufelCNC, the 3018-PROVer Mach3 CNC machine is perfect for users who are looking to build CNC skills or have had previous experience with Mach software. Capable of Canned cycles for pre-programmed actions and other advanced features not available through open source GRBL.
- Pre-assembled: It is mostly pre-assembled and no fuss with basic setup taking less than 30 minutes out of the box. Upgraded with the All-Aluminum body and take advantage of the added stability for milling a wider range of materials while also making clean up even easier with acrylic safety baffles to help contain dust and provide a safety barrier.
- Controller Board: It's suitable for Mach3 and DrufelCNC and supports the Windows system. The spindle motor interface can be connected to DC motors which can up to 100W, and also suitable for 775 spindle motors. (Please note that "3018-PROver" and "3018-PROver Mach3" are not the same model. "3018-PROver Mach3" has a similar appearance to "3018-PROver", but it works with the Mach3 system.)
- Auto Tool Zero: With one mouse click, 3018-PROVer Mach3 will automatically return to a predefined position, allowing you to easily change and calibrate your tools.
- Versatile: Capable of cutting all types of plastics, woods, soft aluminum, acrylics, PVCs, and PCBs, 3018-PROVer Mach3 can be used on a wide range of projects and materials. The open design with an effective engraving area of 260 x 155 x 35mm (10.2 x 6.1 x 1.4'') allows you to work on even larger pieces with fewer limits.
- 3 5/8in. x 15 3/8in. work table with 8 5/8in. longitudinal travel and 4in. cross travel
- 7in. headstock travel
- Coarse down feed control for drilling
- Fine down feed control for accurate tool height setting
- 1/2in. drilling capacity, 5/8in. end mill capacity and 1 3/16in. face mill capacity
- Now with a larger working area (23.62" x 19.69" x 4.53"), 300W spindle motor, redesigned all metal frame and motion-system. The PROVerXL 6050 Plus CNC Machine is ready for all your projects big or small. Faster and more accurate than ever before.
- All new Dual HG-15 Linear Rails and Single Y-axis (T10 Lead Screw) structure is very rigid and greatly improves accuracy and overall strength with quieter operation than before.
- Durable aluminum T-track grid extrusions that support the MDF Spoil Boards. Compatible with a wide variety of clamp sets and easily configurable with add-ons with easy maintenance and replacement of individual MDF spoil boards when needed.
- The pre-assembled core system reduces setup time. There are just a few installation steps and wiring of electronics before you carve your projects. All NEMA23 stepper motors are equipped with manual jog wheels making it easy to adjust and position your spindle or stock material.
- The PROVerXL 6050 Plus includes an extra 65mm spindle holder for future upgrades. Built to be configured for your next project, SainSmart offers a wide variety of accessories you can add, like a Offline Controller, or Dust Shoe (Sold Separately).
- Upgrade Version CNC3018-PRO-MAX: Mini CNC machine small size, light weight, USB interface, GRBL control systems, great cnc router machine for beginers;3018-PRO-MAX machine is very easy to install,stable structure,our parcel also include english user manual; Supporting files:G-code .nc/.txt/.tape/.gcode
- Working area: 30x18x4.5cm / 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches;Frame size: 42x35x27cm / 16.53 x 13.78 x 10.63 inches; Type:USB port Desktop cnc router; System requirements: Windows XP / Win 7 / Win 8 / Win 10 / Linux
- Spindle Motor: 775 120W spindle motor (12-36V) 24V:10000 r/min; Collet: ER11 3.175mm Can be equipped with 0-7mm; Stepper Motor: Nema17 42 stepper motor 1.33A/0.3N.m/43oz-in/42x42x34 mm
- GRBL Software: Our parcel include a 4G USB flash drive,it include the installation instructions,user manual and GRBL software; Upgraded GRBL1.1f Control Board: Added the outer casing,E-stop button port,probe port,limit port,offline controller port and add the power button switch,with the fan,enhanced spindle drive,can support max 20000rpm spindle,and also can support 12V 3-PIN PWM/TTL 0.5W-20W module
- Application: Can be engraved plastic, wood, acrylic, pvc, pcb, wood and the like material.soft metal like copper and aluminum and other materials; If you have the engraver module,you also can change the spindle to a 3-pin PWM engraver module,then also can carve on kraft paper, wood, leather etc
- ✔〚Specification〛: ⓵Motor Speed :12,000rpm ⓶Input voltage/current/power:12VDC/5A/60W ⓷Axis Y and Z Travel: 32mm ⓸Axis X Travel: 145mm ⓹Collet: 1-6mm ⓺Maximum Clamping Size of Vice: 50mm ⓻Working Material: Lignin plastic, soft metal (gold, silver, copper, aluminum etc.), acrylic, plastic, etc
- ✔〚Package list〛: 1 * Mini Lathe;1 * Power Adapter;1 * Set of Accessories;1 * Bottom Plate;1 * User Manual
- ✔〚Main parts〛: headstock, long/short machine bed, big/small slider, motor blade, connection block, gear etc. All of the parts are made of metal.
- ✔〚High 〛: Maximum motor power is 144W by using more powerful motor. Motor case and headstock are jointed.With 0.02mm accuracy of scale lines, the hand wheel increases the of workpiece machining.
- ✔〚!!!NOTE!!!〛: Milling cutter with two cutting edges, is dangerous, so people should be guided by experts when using it.
- 【PREMIUM QUALITY】- With the external dimension of 30.5x28x26cm (12"x11"x10.3"), frames and fixed parts are made of 2020 aluminum profiles & black injection molding material. Working Travel: 16(X)x10(Y)x4(Z)cm (6.3"x3.9"x1.6").
- 【EASY OF ASSEMBLE】- We offer pre-assembled parts and easy assembly taking less than 30 minutes out of the box.
- 【UPDATED OPEN SOURCE】- Based on open-source Grbl v1.1,it has stepped up to more powerful but silent drivers with added life and performance along with added Optocouplers to protect your mainboard from hard stops without risk of damage and eliminate signal noise for more consistent projects and longevity.
- 【WIDE APPLICATION】-Capable of carving and cutting different materials right out of the box, such as plywood, MDF, PCB, acrylic, nylon, carbon fiber, leather, graphite blocks, inlays in wood, plexiglass, vinyl, brass, and other soft metals.
- 【WARRANTY ASSURANCE】-We have 20 years manufacturing experience in this field, any question or problem , pls contact us ,we will get you satisfied and get all problems resolved.
How to choose a good desktop milling machine
Does the idea of finding a fantastic desktop milling machine make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in desktop milling machine. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top desktop milling machine products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top desktop milling machine on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top desktop milling machine brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top desktop milling machine based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the desktop milling machine were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good desktop milling machine, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your desktop milling machine.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting desktop milling machine for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our desktop milling machine. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what desktop milling machine should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on desktop milling machine.
