Which CNC router is right for me?

By scribe

If you’ve heard about the benefits of CNC routers – improved precision, efficiency, and quality of output – then you’ve likely considered adding one to your shop. And if you haven’t, then you should. But there are a lot of CNC routers to choose from with varied specifications that will affect how well they’ll serve your unique needs. How do you decide which one to pull the trigger on?

Here’s a breakdown of a few points to consider during this process to guide your decision-making and to ensure you make the right purchase.

What are you cutting?

CNC routers are capable of cutting a wide range of materials from acrylic and plastic to wood and aluminum. Some routers handle certain materials better than others, so consider what you’ll be cutting as you’re making your purchase decision.

If you’ll be using the router in a fairly light capacity with minimal accuracy or cutting forces, the RC Series may work best and will excel in crafting entry-level prototypes, signage, cabinetry, and more.

If you’re working with a higher precision need, a more production-orientated application, or with items like aluminum or brass, a more capable or versatile machine like the IS Series or PRO Series will deliver outstanding results.

If your production demands are time-sensitive or if you’re getting into a high-tolerance application, the ShopSabre IS-M Series may be the way to go.

How much space do you have?

The environment in which you’ll be doing your cutting is also a key factor in purchasing your CNC router. Some machines are well-suited for a garage or other at-home environments, but if you’re looking to install a professional-grade CNC machine, you’ll need a bit more space than that.

The RC4 and the ShopSabre 23 are capable of working effectively in more space-limited settings and in applications where a large machine simply isn’t necessary.

Professional shops will be able to make use of the IS-M Series, the IS Series, or the PRO Series, which have a slightly larger footprint to go along with their more powerful performance capabilities and higher accuracy and edge finishes.

What is your budget?

The cost of a CNC router is right in line with its power, versatility, and size. A professional tradesman is going to have a larger budget and is going to need a machine that is more capable, and thus more expensive.

The IS-M, IS, and PRO Series routers range from $31,295 to $64,795 – still an unrivaled value for the level of quality and increased productivity you’ll receive from any of the three. The cost of a high-end CNC router is quickly made back via precision and efficiency that result in realized ROI after only a short time.

If your budget and needs aren’t as significant because you’re just getting started in CNC work or it simply serves as a hobby, the RC Series and the ShopSabre 23 offer a more inexpensive solution, ranging from $7,495 to $19,995.

If you’re a business and capital is tight, you don’t have to settle for a lower-quality machine. ShopSabre offers industry-leading financing solutions to help meet the needs of your application – and your budget.

CNC routers for every application

At ShopSabre, we believe industrial strength and customer service are the two most important elements of a CNC router. Every machine we offer is built to the end user’s needs – not just as a cookie-cutter solution. No two shops are the same, so your machine should be configured for your application and growth.

Every ShopSabre CNC system is built to last with top-rated material, industrial-strength construction, state-of-the-art technology, and more. Request a quote today to find the perfect CNC router to streamline your work.