A 3018 CNC router is a great choice when you want a CNC that fits on your desk and lets you work on small workpieces.
These CNC machines have made getting into hobby CNC quite affordable.
While there are several such machines available online, wading through them to find a quality choice can be a difficult task, especially when they all seem alike.
After a detailed analysis, I came up with a list of the best 3018 CNCs you can get in today’s market.
I selected them based on several factors like size, build, software, electronics, controller, compatibility, and support.
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Best 3018 CNC Routers in 2023
1. SainSmart Genmitsu CNC Router 3018-PROVer– Best Overall 3018 CNC router
| Footprint | 15.7” x 13.0” x 9.4″ |
| Workpiece thickness | 1.8″ |
| Spindle | 775 type, 10,000 RPM, 120W |
| OS compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Assembly | 30 minutes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Quick summary of SainSmart Genmitsu 3018-PROVer
3018 CNCs are generic CNCs and SainSmart Genmitsu gave it a branded makeover with its Genmitsu 3018 CNCs.
It is a great machine for beginners for small-scale engraving businesses who want to dive into CNC milling without spending too much time assembling.
Size and build
The SainSmart Genmitsu 3018-PROVer is a desktop machine that has a 15.7” x 13.0” x 9.4″ footprint which is quite similar to a printer.
The cutting area you get is 11.8” x 7.1” on which you can engrave workpieces with a maximum thickness of 1.8 inches which is the highest on this list.
The frame is made of aluminum which gives it good rigidity for engraving and supports spindles upgrades without a problem.
It has acrylic baffles on the side which protects allows you to view the cutting process safely.
Linear Motion
Lead screws are used for moving all three axes and the lead screws are driven by 12 V stepper motors with a maximum torque of 2.2 lb-in.
Spindle
The Genmistsu 775 spindle used on the 3018-PROVer is a low-power CNC spindle suitable for engraving on soft materials like wood and plastics.
It has a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM at 36 V and uses an ER11 collect that can clamp tools with a shank diameter less than 1/8″.
If you want to engrave on aluminum you should swap the spindle with the drop-in spindle upgrade from Genmitsu that has a maximum speed of 20,000 RPM.
Controller and electronics
Genmitsu uses its proprietary control board for the 3018-PRO. It supports, laser modules, 3 stepper motors, and a spindle.
It uses the TB6S109 stepper driver from Toshiba that is really quiet and reliable. It can handle up to 4A of current through it for each motor.
The controller is GRBL based and connects with your computer via USB cable. You can use any G-code sending software to operate this CNC machine.
It comes with an offline controller with a 1.8” screen which gives you complete control over the machine. You can run G-code directly from a memory stick using the offline controller.
The controller has optocouplers that isolate input and output signals and protects the controller board from external high currents.
As for the electronics, it is feature-packed and comes with limit switches on all axes, Z-probe, and an emergency stop switch as standard.
The limit switches prevent the gantry from crashing into the frame.
The Z-probe makes zeroing the CNC router after each tool change an easy process.
The emergency stop switch lets you stop the machine instantly in case of any emergencies.
Software
You get a three-month subscription to CARVECO CAM and design software. CARVECO is an easy-to-use and easy-to-learn software.
However, you can use any free CNC software to design the cuts and operate the machine.
For controlling the CNC router you can use GRBL Candle or UGS, which are popular G-code sending software.
Upgrades
SainSmart offers several upgrades for the Genmitsu 3018-PROVer that improve the capabilities of the machine.
Genmitsu GS-775M
It is a 24V, 20,000 RPM drop-in spindle replacement that lets you engrave on aluminum.
SainSmart Blue Laser Module Kit for Genmitsu CNC Machine 3018
If you want laser engraving capabilities you can choose this 2.5 W blue laser module that can be easily installed onto the PROVer
It uses a 445nm blue laser and works with a 12 V supply that draws 2A of current.
Assembly
The PROVer arrives as two parts that are pre-assembled. This reduces the time you need to spend on assembly.
You can assemble the PROVer in under 30 minutes using the pre-assembled parts.
You can find several helpful videos on YouTube to help you with each step of the assembly process.
SainSmart provides well-detailed online instructions manual for Genmistsu 3018-PRO.
Community and Support
The official support is reliable. The official website has troubleshooting tips for almost all problems you may face while using the 3018-PROVer.
Even though they lack a community forum, they have an active Facebook group where you can discuss the issues with your router and share ideas.
You can contact them through email or phone if you ever need any assistance from them.
The SainSmart Genmitsu 3018-PROVer is a feature-packed CNC router with good official support and is reliable.
- Best Entry-Level: The Genmitsu 3018-PROVER V2 is the first choice for beginners looking to enter the world of CNC machining. It offers incredible value and opens up a world of possibilities, from creating unique artwork and personalised gifts to starting your own small business.
- Effortless Enhancement: Accessories can be easily added to increase the functionality of the CNC machine. A wide range of accessories can be added, including extension kits, powerful spindle and offline control, etc.
A more detailed review of the PROVer can be found here-Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 PROVer.
2. MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max– Best 3018 CNC router for PCB making
| Parameters | MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 15.7” x 13” x 9.4” |
| Workpiece thickness | 1.8″ |
| Spindle | 775 motor, 12,000 RPM, 200W |
| OS compatibility | Windows |
| Assembly | 2-3 hours |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Quick summary of MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max
MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max is a CNC engraving machine that is good for beginners and small-scale engraving work.
MYSWEETY is a popular hobby CNC spindle and hobby CNC components maker.
They also have laser engravers that cost a bit more than regular engravers and have similar specifications.
It is also one of the best cheap CNC machines in the market.
You can use this CNC machine to engrave on wood, bamboo, paper, leather, plastic, PCB, acrylic, metal surface paint, and metal surface plating.
Size and build
It has a footprint of 15.7” x 13” x 9.4” and is quite similar to the Genmitsu in terms of the area it covers.
On this CNC router, you can accommodate workpieces of sizes less than 11.8” x 7.1” x 1.8”.
The frame is made of aluminum and bakelite. The work bed is made of aluminum profiles with slots for work-holding.
Linear Motion
Lead screws are used on all three axes of the 3018 Pro Max. These lead screws are driven by stepper motors rated at 12 V 1.33 A.
The stepper motors used on the 3018 Pro-M have a torque of 2.2 lb-in.
Spindle
It houses a 200W spindle with a 775 motor that can achieve a maximum speed of 12,000 RPM.
You can use ER11 collets with this spindle that can hold tools with a shank diameter of less than 1/8″.
Controller and electronics
The kit comes with a GRBL-based control board. The controller board has DRV8825 stepper drivers.
The controller connects with your computer using a USB cable and is compatible with Windows-OS-based computers.
It comes with an offline controller that allows you to operate the machine without a computer.
You can use the CNC engraver without a computer by uploading the G-codes for your design on a memory stick and plugging it offline controller.
Software
MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max does not come with any software and you can use any paid or free software with this engraver.
For controlling the engraver you will need software that supports GRBL-based controllers.
You can use GRBL Candle or UGS, which are popular free software choices for controlling the CNC engraver.
Assembly
The kit needs to be assembled and can take around 2-3 hours to complete.
Additionally, you will need to make fine adjustments to achieve good accuracy with this engraver.
A drawback of this engraver is that it lacks proper documentation but has a good instruction manual in the USB stick that comes with it to help you through the assembly process.
Community and Support
There is no US-based customer support team for this CNC engraver and you will need to mail them for any queries.
They do not provide phone support but overall the support is better than most of the generic 3018 CNC machines in the market.
MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro Max is popular among the hobby PCB-making crowd and is a good 3018 CNC router for the purpose.
- 🤓【MYSWEETY CNC 3018 Pro MAX】- CNC 3018 Pro MAX is an upgraded version of 3018-PRO. Control software: GRBL; Working area: 300x180x45mm; Spindle: 200W spindle, DC24V, 12000r / min. Supported System: Windows XP / Win 7 / Win 8 / Win 10.
- 🤓【200W High Power Spindle】- Spindle: 200W, The main shaft adopts 52mm diameter professional air-cooled main shaft, rated at 200W, and the maximum power can reach 300W.
If you are looking for an affordable/Cheap CNC machine and not necessarily a 3018 size CNC, then this will help you- Best Cheap CNC Machines [2023]
3. VEVOR CNC 3018 Pro– Most Convenient 3018 CNC router
| Parameters | Vevor 3018 Pro |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 17.7” x 14.4” x 10.9” |
| Workpiece thickness | 1.8″ |
| Spindle | 775 type, 10,000 RPM |
| OS compatibility | Windows, macOS |
| Assembly | 2-3 hours |
| Warranty | No formal warranty |
Quick summary of VEVOR CNC 3018 Pro Max
This is an engraver kit that belongs to the generic 3018 family of CNCs.
You can use this CNC router to engrave on soft materials like plastic, wood, acrylic, and PVC, and it can also engrave on soft aluminum.
Size and build
The work area that you get is the same as in any 3018 CNC machine. You get a work area of 30cm x 18cm or 11.8” x 7.1”.
The maximum Z-axis travel you get is 1.77”.
It has a footprint of 17.2” x 14.4” x 10.9” which is similar to that of an office printer.
The frame is made out of aluminum and bakelite. An all-aluminum construction like that of Genmitsu 3018-PROVer would have been more rigid.
Linear Motion
All three axes on the Vevor 3018 Pro Max are driven by T8 stainless steel screw rods which provide good rigidity.
The axes are supported by two cylindrical guide rails on each axis.
The stepper motors used on each axis require 1.3 A of current at 12V and it has a torque of 0.25 Nm.
Spindle
It uses the generic 775-type spindle. The spindle works with a 24 V supply and has a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM.
It ships with an ER11 collet and you can use ⅛” shank diameter tool on it.
Using a larger collet and tools is not recommended considering the power and speed of the spindle.
Controller and electronics
Vevor ships their 3018 CNC with the XCronos Maker control board or the Annoy Tools control board.
You cannot choose which one you want, it will be randomly selected for you. But, both these control boards are similar, so no issue there.
These control boards work on the GRBL firmware and you can use any software for the GRBL controller for controlling it.
It also has an offline controller that lets you control the CNC engraver without a computer.
You can plug in a USB stick loaded with G-code to run the CNC router directly from the offline controller.
You can import JPG, BMP, PNG, and DXF files for engraving directly from the computer via a USB connection.
The controller supports Windows XP SP3, win7, win8, win10 (32/64), and macOS computers.
Software
Vevor CNC does not come with any software, the driver software required for the controller is provided in a USB stick that ships with the CNC router.
You can use any paid or free CNC software to make designs and control the machine.
Assembly
The product arrives as a kit and you need to assemble it. Be prepared to spend some time assembling it.
The instruction manual and videos provided on the USB stick that ships with the kit is of great help during assembly.
The entire assembly process can take about 2-3 hours as there are no pre-assembled parts in the kit.
Support
Vevor provides both E-mail and phone support in the US and they usually respond back within 24hrs.
The official support and the user manuals provided are reliable.
Overall, this is a CNC router best suited for engraving on soft material and is easy to use.
VEVOR 3018 Pro Max is an easy-to-use piece of equipment as it can directly work with image files like jpg, making it a good choice for beginners.
- CNC 3018 Router Machine: CNC 3018 PRO is an upgraded version of 3018 CNC. We provide a detailed user manual, assembly instructions, and installation video for your convenience. Assemble the engraver machine according to the installation instructions. You can enjoy the delight of engraving foam, wood, plastic, acrylic, resin, carbon fiber, and many more. This product does not include a laser head and can be purchased by yourself.
- Large Working Area: The effective engraving area of this engraving machine is 11.8(X) x 7.1(Y) x 1.8(Z) inches. Three refined axes are designed to achieve plane engraving. With the knob, the axes can be moved manually, which facilitates the carving tool settings. The driving units consist of stainless steel screw rods. It uses double copper nuts to clear round trip errors.
4. RATTMMOTOR CNC 3018Pro Max– Best affordable 3018 CNC router
| Parameters | RATTMMOTOR 3018 Pro Max |
|---|---|
| Footprint | 15.7” x 13” x 9.4” |
| Workpiece thickness | 1.77″ |
| Spindle | 775 type, 10,000 RPM |
| OS compatibily | Windows XP, Windows 7 |
| Assembly | 3 hours |
| Warranty | No formal warranty |
Quick summary of RATTMMOTOR CNC 3018Pro Max
Rattmmotor is a popular hobby CNC parts manufacturer that is known for its spindles for CNC routers.
The 3018 Pro Max is a hobby CNC router that is best for engraving on soft materials like wood, plastics, PVC, acrylics, and metals like copper and aluminum.
Size and build
It has an 11.8” x 7.1” (30cm x 18cm) work area with a Z-axis travel of 1.77”.
You would need a space of at least 15.7” x 13” x 9.4” of space on your desk to place this CNC engraver.
The CNC has an aluminum and nylon frame which is rigid enough for engraving on soft metals like aluminum and copper.
Linear Motion
All three axes are driven by screw rods. These screw rods are driven by stepper motors.
The stepper motors used on this CNC have 0.25 Nm of torque and work with a 12 V 1.3 A supply.
Spindle
A 775-type spindle is used on this CNC router and it has a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM.
An ER11 collet is supplied with the kit which you can install on the extension rod of the spindle. It will let you hold bits with a ⅛” shank diameter.
Controller and electronics
The controller for this CNC machine is the Woodpecker CNC Camxtool v3 controller board, which is the same controller board used on the Genmitsu 3018-PRO (not PROVer).
It is a GRBL-firmware based controller and can be connected to your computer via a USB cable.
It also has an offline controller that accepts memory sticks with G-code files to control your machine without a computer.
The controller supports laser modules and 20,000 RPM spindles, meaning if you want these upgrades you are covered in terms of the controller.
You will need a computer with Win XP or Win 7 OS as the controller is not compatible with Windows 10 or macOS.
Software
You can use any CNC software for designing and controlling this CNC router.
The manufacturer does not provide any software for this product. However, it supports all control software that is compatible with GRBL firmware.
Assembly
The kit arrives as parts that need to be assembled. Most of the tools required for assembly are also provided in the kit.
You will need to spend around three hours putting this CNC router together.
The printed assembly manual that comes with the kit is detailed and will help you with the assembly process.
Support
This CNC router lacks proper official support or community. You will have to rely on videos available on the internet for support.
Most of the components that require support, like the controller, are sourced from other brands. You can contact the original manufacturer for troubleshooting.
The RATTMMOTOR CNC Pro Max is an affordable 3018 CNC machine that has enough capabilities for beginners.
- 【Upgrade Version CNC】Frame size: 42x35x27CM (16.53 x 13.78 x 10.63”). Working area:18x10x4.5CM(11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8”). Material: Aluminum Alloy. Spindle: 775 spindle motor (12-24V) 24V:10000r/min. Stepper motor: 42 stepper motor, 12V, phase current 1.3A, phase resistance 2.1 ohms, torque 0.25N.m
- 【Simple Assembly/Use】This mini cnc router machine kit is mainly designed for DIY carving enthusiasts/beginners, easily assembled and opertated, coming with a paper manual and USB flash drive of all the files.
5. mcwdoit CNC 3018 Pro-3018 CNC router with the best warranty
| Parameters | mcwdoit 3018 Pro |
|---|---|
| Workpiece thickness | 1.77″ |
| Spindle | 775 type, 10,000 RPM |
| OS compatibility | Windows, Linux |
| Assembly | 3 hours |
| Warranty | 1-year warranty, 30-day return policy |
Quick summary of mcwdoit CNC 3018 Pro
This 3018 CNC router is for light use on soft materials. It cannot cut through but it can engrave with good accuracy.
It is a good choice for PCB milling and engraving on soft materials.
Size and build
You can use workpieces that have a dimension of 11.8” x 7.1” x 1.77”, as is the case with all 3018 CNC machines.
The frame is made of aluminum profiles and bakelite plates, which makes it a lightweight CNC router.
Linear Motion
For linear motion, all the axes use a lead screw mechanism that is driven by stepper motors.
The X and Y axes move on cylindrical guide rods supported by slide nuts.
Spindle
It uses the generic 775 spindle motors that have a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM for all engraving purposes.
The spindle speed is controlled by the controller board and does not require a separate power supply or control unit.
You will get an ER11 collet that holds ⅛” shank diameter bits with this CNC router kit.
Controller and electronics
For controlling the CNC router the Woodpecker CNC Camxtool v3 controller board is used. It is the same board that is used on the RATTMMOTOR and Genmitsu 3018-PRO CNC machines.
This controller is popular and is a go-to choice for DIY CNC builds. IT works on the GRBL firmware.
Furthermore, the offline controller is quite handy for using the machine without a computer.
However, you will need a computer to transfer the G-code files into a memory stick to use with the offline controller.
The controller can be connected to your PC via a USB cable.
Software
The kit arrives with a USB stick that contains the CH340 driver for the controller.
Additionally, the USB stick also contains a version of GRBL Candle, which is a popular free CNC control software.
GRBL Candle is an easy-to-use software that can run on Windows or Linux computers.
For design, you can use any CAD/CAM software combination and create the G-code for controlling the CNC router.
Assembly
Mcwdoit provides a good assembly manual with this CNC router. The instructions lack detailing but the illustrations provide enough help in putting this router together.
You can find the instruction manual on the product page in Amazon or inside the USB stick that comes with the CNC router.
Overall the assembly process should not take you more than three hours to complete.
Support
The official support for this CNC machine is good. They provide e-mail support for their customers.
Additionally, they offer a one-year warranty for the mcwdoit 3018 Pro and a 30-day return policy.
Warranty on 3018 CNCs is a rare thing these days.
The warranty on this CNC makes it an excellent choice for those skeptical about the equipment’s durability.