The Ultimate Desktop CNC Router Comparison - Which Should You Buy?

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Timestamps
X-Carve - 1:01
Shapeoko - 9:11
Onefinity - 17:15
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[@calebsanz9826]

Coming from a 3018 Sainsmart...then a millright Carve king....and now a X50 Journeyman from 1F, I can attest to the rigidity and accuracy of this machine. Yes, i waited 3 months for delivery, but it was worth it. To answer your question as to what happens when you slam your x/y rails into the ends at full speed.....absolutely nothing happens. The steppers stall out, but no damage is done to the machine whatsoever. There are several youtube videos showing this. The main selling point for me was the ball screws (more precision, less backlash) and the ease of putting this machine together. Its 30 minutes....tops...and not a million screws like the others. Thats worths its weight in gold.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Hey thanks for sharing this! Hopefully other read this and gain insight 👍

[@dustblowingman]

Which machine are you talking about

[@stevecuthbert8856]

@@dustblowingman He's talking about the Onefinity journeymen X-50.

[@dana161616161616]

I bought the Shapeoko Pro XXL a couple of months ago. I had it together in 4 hours. I have been absolutely amazed by it. I have had no problems that weren't caused by myself, since I am a new CNC user. No complaints yet. I'm having fun and I'm happy as hell!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for sharing your experiences!

[@freedompatriot3460]

Hey I’m looking into a Shapeoko, how’s it working for ya now, being several months in?

[@elephantgrass631]

Even if you fuck it up, if you break something that’s Carbide3D branded within 30 days of purchase they cover it. Mind blown. That’s how you run a good company with a long term strategy.

[@JimIah66]

Thanks for your video and your feelings on these machines. I looked at them and decided on the Shapeoko Pro XXL. I had a couple of problems with it as I assembled it but they were mostly my fat fingers vs the tiny screws in the x, y, and z limit switches. I did have a devil of a time in getting the power plug to go into the circuit board and the very small solder joints came loose. I guess you could say that this was my fault, but good on their guarantee, they replaced the board with overnight shipping and I was up and going. I am 74 years old and have been in woodworking as my hobby for over 50 years. This was a birthday present for myself and I am loving it. I also love the fact that Carbide 3D has a lot of good help online and on call. I have used it all and it is superb, especially for an old guy. I have watched many, if not all, of your KZbin videos and have learned a lot from watching your work. Thanks so much.

[@rb67mustang]

Andy, I know this video is a year old. I see in the side bar that you have a newer video about the Shapeoko 5 Pro which is newer and they ditched the belts and now it had ball screws. As a beginner machine, I think that's for me. Thank you for taking the extra time in creating this video. You've already been a great help to me and I haven't even started yet. I do have some wood working machines and I got myself an old Bridgeport milling machine in fair condition that I used to use in the machine shop which is a big plus for me as a retired machinist. I can't wait to buy my 1st CNC Router and get started.

[@RonMarshallrone]

I own the Onefinity Journeyman. First CNC I've owned but it's already paid for itself in 3 months. Great machine.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Right on

[@dattoboy1]

Cool. What have you been making with it and what software so you use?

[@Wavecruzer79]

What do you use that for over the woodworker version? Hard to see the difference in the two

[@RonMarshallrone]

@@Wavecruzer79 Flattening slabs, cutting out sink holes in small sized countertops for bathrooms, about a 50 more cuts in a small items i've made in jobs, fitting plywood in sideways without having to trim it for, I mean its endless man. Its 16 inches more to use than the woodworker. Be creative with the extra space. You can achieve a lot with tiling to so not knocking the woodworker either.

[@b-radg916]

@@RonMarshallrone: Most slabs are bigger than the machine can handle in one shot … in those cases do you use a tiling method?

[@mysticswordsman]

Thank you for doing this! It makes it easier to know what to do and how to rate/ judge on what would be the best way to purchase a CNC.

[@stingrayguy8294]

Ok here is my two cents worth. I am a cnc machinist / programmer for a living. So rigidity is everything. I recently ordered the Journeyman X50. It has a 48x32 cutting area. There are videos with people standing on the X rail. I have always had a problem with the water cooled spindles being so heavy the gantry actually flexes. I am told by support that at the worst point of flex, you will only get .ooo6 flex. Now that is about a half of a thousands of an inch. The thickness of a sheet of paper is only about .0035. So I am sold on this machine. No rollers to worry about wearing down and no debris for them to skid across and no belts to always have to restretch. You are going to pay more money granted but this is as close to a industrial machine in a desktop you can get. Expect to pay over $3500 possibly more with dust collection and your spindle. I was quoted just over $3300 which includes about $190 shipping to Colorado.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks for sharing. It is a great machine from what I've seen as well. With this rigidity the trim router as a spindle becomes the weakest link.

[@stingrayguy8294]

@@AndyBirdBuilds Thank you very much for taking the time to review the 3 machines. I don't like the lead time with 1F but I know the wait will be worth it especially when you figure in I have to order a spindle, dust collection and the time making a table. The time frame should work out just about right. Great videos you did. I was impressed how you used excel to break down the pros and cons. We need more guys like you out there.

[@ARepublicIfYouCanKeepIt]

An apples-to-apples comparison for a hobby-class machine is appropriate only for the X-Carve and Shapeoko. Onefinity machines are what I'd call "prosumer" to low-volume production offerings. For this reason (and many others), I'd confine this type of analysis to the X-Carve and Shapeoko. Of these, the Shapeoko is a much better machine than the X-Carve...for essentially the same price. With all that said, if you're committed to CNC, but aren't ready to step up to an industrial-grade machine, such as an Avid, Laguna, Phantom, ShopSabre, or other 4'x8' or larger machine, save yourself time, money and frustration, and go with the Onefinity Journeyman X-50 (48"x32"). You'll be able to cut 2D, 2.5D and 3D shapes on standard full 4' wide stock; doing what's known as "tiling" for jobs exceeding the 32" Y-axis of the Journeyman. Additionally, due to the use of ballscrews on all axes, coupled with optional larger stepper motors, the feed rates of the Onefinity rival that of machines costing three to ten times as much. The increased rigidity of the machine also makes cutting non-ferrous metal much more of a reality vs. machines targeted to the hobbyist community. With access to a ShopSabre Pro408 (4'x8'), I just like having a smaller machine that's capable of handling a majority of the work I do. No high power requirements. No lengthy start-up cycle. Just turn it on, home it and get to cutting. All with similar precision to much larger and far more expensive machines. Ballscrews, not belts or leadscrews. Fast, smooth, accurate motion that's simply amazing...and well worth the nominal premium over X-Carves and Shapeokos. As for software, both Easel and Carbide Create can be used with Onefinity CNC's, though the serious hobbyist or entrepreneur will want to quickly graduate to Vectric's VCarve Pro software. A bit pricey, but definitely worth it. Alternatives include OnShape, which has a free hobbyist license, and Fusion 360, which includes both CAD and CAM in the same package. One thing this video didn't address is flexibility. Coming from machines with vacuum holddown, that's a must for me, and that's a breeze to accomplish for the Onefinity. A drop table for on-edge work, such as mortises, tenons, dovetail drawer boxes, pockets for cutting board handles or hidden hinges, etc., is also easily accomplished with the Onefinity. All this in addition to wired and wireless controller accessories, touchscreen capability, WiFi, remote monitoring/control and, of course, the ability to create simple jobs and run the machine without a computer. The Onefinity community is also extremely active and helpful, and a robust assortment of accessories are available from community members. Lastly, Onefinity CNC machines are also capable of functioning as plotters, cutting vinyl, leather and cardboard using a drag knife, even laser engraving with either 7W or 14W diode laser offerings. So, after you've cut a project's shapes, you can label parts, make a custom box, even burn a logo or design (or simply cut thin stock) into the product. You're also able to diversify by laser cutting wood and engraving either metal or wood. All with a single, very capable machine. Be prepared to spend upwards of $6,000 for a full set-up, though. On the plus side, this can all be done incrementally, over time, without losing anything. In that regard, the Onefinity is a platform that can be expanded as either your hobby interests increase, or your business expands.

[@sweterkitten]

I owned a shaleoko 3 and sold it for the onefinity. Onefinity feels like a race car compared to shapeoko 3. However im still waiting for a qcw frame for onefinity i ordered forever ago and they are not updating their website. Also i will say carbide3d has probably the best customer service i have ever experienced, truely top notch. So if support is something thats important then shapeoko for sure from my experience.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Great insight Steven, thank you for sharing

[@seanmichael5751]

whats the working IPM on the onefinity? Ive always been curious about that because a lot of people say its faster but these little trim routers they use arent going to handle much past the 300 ipm i get from the shapeoko. can you upgrade to a more beefy spinfle?

[@jeffb5858]

I've got the OneFinity with the X-50 rail (only the X rail is 50, others are 35). It does indeed mount to the table with 16 screws. Mines into plywood with a MDF spoilboard mounted between the Y axis. It is definitely very rigid, have had no problems with it moving on the table or anything like that. The one thing I really didn't like was the mount for the monitor. It's a swivel mount with magnets, so the monitor itself is just attached by magnets. I knocked it off less than two months after getting my machine, and of course the screen broke (it's a touch screen to boot). I upgraded to a larger touch screen that is mounted to a swing arm on a separate table from the CNC, and my controller is on that same table. Its notable that the probe for the OneFinity is an XYZ probe, not just Z like the X Carve. You can move the axis with the controller/touchscreen, as well as with the wireless controller that's available. Controller offers four different speeds. I broke a 1/8th bit the other day not paying attention. OOPS! It sucked waiting 5 months for it, and I actually bought a Genmitsu Prover 4030 in the interim to start learning, upgraded that to a 6060 (learned a lot about CNCs doing that), so when the 1F came in, I was ready to carve.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

This is some great insight, Jeffrey! Thanks for sharing. I know others will learn from your comment.

[@jaycaviness1216]

I have to agree with you on the monitor mount, I have knocked mine off several times and damaged it to the point where the touchscreen no longer works, however, a wireless USB mouse has taken its place as plug and play in the one of the four USB slots. Other than that, I am very happy with the 1F. Hopefully a bitsetter is in the future.

[@b-radg916]

@@jaycaviness1216 Does Onefinity make a BitSetter, or is the Carbide 3D BitSetter compatible? It was VERY useful on the Shapeoko 3 XXL.

[@jaycaviness1216]

@@b-radg916 The newest edition of the Onefinity includes a bitsetter. It is certainly an option I would like to have on my original model.

[@b-radg916]

@@jaycaviness1216: I don’t see it on their Accessories page … hopefully it will be there soon!

[@mark9378]

Shout out from down Under Australia. Great video mate. I've been looking at buying a CNC machine for the past few months. I'm a complete novice and found this video very helpful. Cheers. 🤙🇦🇺

[@craigfaubert862]

Someone needs to start looking at the Sienci Longmill!

[@user-fk9ec9mh7k]

Have you made a video? Will check it out

[@talldave1000]

Well done video. Well thought out. I like the comparison categories. It makes it a lot easier to figure out what you want.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad it was helpful!

[@KevinBrowne-fm9nc]

What a FAB Video Andy! Thank you very much, extremely well put together & easy to follow & breaks up some of the myths surrounding C.N.C machines. Just wish they sold the Shapeoko here in the UK?!

[@daleclark9019]

Thank you, very useful break down for someone looking into investing in a cnc machine.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Fantastic!

[@splinterfingerswoodworking8995]

Great video I've had my shapeoko 4 for a little over a month and love I I would love to see a continuing of this video comparing the longmill and the open builds

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Definitely something to look at if their is enough interest!

[@splinterfingerswoodworking8995]

@@AndyBirdBuilds I think it would make a very interesting video both seem to be very sturdy machines at a very low price of Entry the long mill has Acme thread while the openbuilds offers a 60 by 60 for about the same price point as a shapeoko. I am still very new to the world of CNC and before I partnered with carbide 3D I was considering both of these machines very highly. I enjoy your videos very much and hello from Pikeville Kentucky

[@BasilMeadows]

I had a Shapeoko XXL3 and sold it for the 1F Woodworker. Pros for the move.. no belts, no v-wheels, FASTER! and more ridged. Cons.. Firmware needs some serious additions. Such as adding a bitsetter option for doing bit changes in one G-Code. Right now I run different G-Codes for each tool needed. Having the option to preset an X and Y zero for those of us that use stops or dogs for locating our work piece. The mount for the screen is a terrible design, I bought a swing arm mount for mine that works great! I was running the XXL3 at 80 IPM, the 1F is set at 150 IPM and can do more. I keep hoping the folks at 1F will come out with an optional controller that has those features for multiple bit tool paths and a designated X and Y zero, but nothing yet. Great video! I enjoy watching your stuff, no nonsense straight forward!

[@b-radg916]

I’m right behind you (learned on a Shapeoko 3 XXL), but haven’t bought an X-50 yet because the Buildbotics controller doesn’t allow for adjusting feedrate on the fly. Have you done anything about that?

[@BasilMeadows]

@@b-radg916 I ordered the new Elite Onefinity which uses the Masso controller. They're going to come out with an upgrade package later this year for the older versions but I went ahead and ordered the 48x48.

[@b-radg916]

@@BasilMeadows: Enjoy! Because of the 18-20 week lead time for the Elite, I’m leaning toward getting a 48” X-50 (1-2 week lead time) and if I really find it necessary, changing the controller. Glad to hear they’re going to offer an upgrade … their site says that will be this quarter 👍🏽👍🏽

[@gonesouth661]

I am waiting for my Shapeoko 5 to come in now and am ready to get started on it. You mentioned that you could not find some of the information on the website. When you purchase the machine, they inundate your email in a good way with the information that you need. That being said, you able to do a lot of preperation for what you need to know even before it arrives. I did like your video and appreciate the work you put into it. I am a new sub and looking forward to seeing more content.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Awesome! Welcome!!

[@tsuobachi]

Thanks, that was a very helpful video and it's clear that you really took the time and effort to provide really good insight from your knowledge and experience.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@kluggs99]

Hi Andy, Thank you so much for your videos. My husband and I have a really successful Etsy shop and have recently begun the process of researching, etc., CNCs to ramp production. We typically use a scroll or jig to cut our items. The machine would save us an inordinate amount of time, thus increasing profits! That being said, I came upon your channel during the research. The first one was “should I buy a CNC?” Every piece of advice is spot on….it is the perfect advice. And thank you, thank you, thank you for this. This information has saved us a lot of time. You did the legwork for us! I plan on watching all of your videos! You are an amazing presenter. I’m a fan for sure! Ps…started watching your “why isn’t my stuff selling on Etsy” video. Jeez, you nailed it. It’s the advice I give to everyone. People sell things that are completely saturated on Etsy. Gotta come up with novel ideas!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Hello! I was going through old comments and I'm not sure how I missed this one! Thank you so much for the kind words! Did you make the jump into CNC yet?

[@michelescott9941]

@@AndyBirdBuilds You're so funny! :) So nice to get back to me. We went with the Shapeoko 4XXL last March. That being said, I really wish I did the Onefiniti that you suggested. Price was a concern, so I thought the Shapeoko would be the better choice. I paid via Paypal deferred interest for 6 months. It was paid off in 2 months!!!! We totally ramped up production. Products are more precise, so less work with finishing. Totally could have swung the Onefiniti. But this does a great job and maybe I'll upgrade in the future! Again - LOVE your content!

[@gameboyguyeskimo]

Your guidance has helped me decide to buy the Onefinity. Thank you!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Fantastic!

[@tommelinn4268]

Andy, it has been 2 years since you made this video. I have been thinking about getting into cnc, reading all I can, and am getting KZbin video overload. This is a great comparison and to see the comments made since you did it. I am close to ordering my machine. I think I am going with the Shapeoko 4XL. They have the 5 out now too but the 4 should do all I need along with all of the accessories. I considered the Infinity, Shark, and Longmill. The support, experiences, and history of Shapeoko keeps coming out on top of my comparisons. The ONLY decision yet to make is will it be the XL or the XXL. I THINK the XL will be the one I go with. THANK YOU FOR DOING THIS COMPARISON!!!

[@cncprogrammer3265]

Very good comparative analysis. Before I bought my Shark, I was getting confused with all the machines that were available. It was so difficult to actually tell what you were getting. I didn't want a hobby machine and I wasn't going to get an industrial grade model. I eventually narrowed my choices down to three. I got the Shark over the other two for various reasons, price being one, work envelope, availability, pretty much knowing what I was getting, including software, and it was sold in many woodworking retailers throughout the United States. I would have liked to see it assembled and running, but not having one of those retailers where it is sold nearby, I bought it sight unseen. It's pretty good. I think I made the right choice. Now I'm considering getting another machine to put in another location, have it as a show piece and dedicate it to a specific product line.. I could just get another Shark I guess, but I am enjoying looking at learning about other machines. Maybe I could get something just a suitable for less. It's actually quite helpful and informative to learn from those like you who have started this ahead of me.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Great to hear! How has the Shark been for you? I don't know much about that machine

[@cncprogrammer3265]

@@AndyBirdBuilds So far I'm pretty satisfied. I'm able to cut all around 24 x 48 material. It's not enormous, but it's a decent size work envelope. It's also nice for nesting pieces and doing multiple pieces in one set up. I haven't pushed it real hard yet, but it seemed to handle cuts pretty well when I increased feed rates or took deeper cuts. When I get more into 3d cutting, higher feed rates and larger tools and greater material removal, I'm sure I'll see where it's limits are. For now I'm getting used to it and being conservative..

[@drewlarck5100]

The 1F can also upgrade to the Journeyman right out of the gate or down the road to bump up to a 4’ width that can tile full sheets. That’s a massive advantage over the others.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

That is a great point. Thanks

[@iwannaapple7190]

Thanks for the video. I enjoyed it and I have a request if you can do it? Would you mind doing comparisons between the Onefinity, the Longmill MK2 and the Millright Mega V. You did such a good job on this one you should do another comparison. It would be interesting to watch.

[@scottmorris4914]

I ordered a OneFinity, with the idea of the 6-8 week wait time, to spend the time with vCarve. Thanks for the confirming information.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad I could help!

[@jshirk8]

I’ve got the onefinity journeyman with QCW and a 2.2kw spindle with cable drag chains and pwncnc v7 for the 4” dust hose. I surface my mdf wasteboard at 400ipm with a 2” surfacing flywheel cutter. Cuts hardwoods like butter. It’s an absolute beast. I’ve had 3D printers with belts, wheels and linear rails. Rails and ball screws leave all the other methods buried in sweet sweet perfect wood chips. I honestly use a 120v 1” diameter bit all day making signs and it eats through third sheets of Baltic birch ply like crazy. I’m sure shapeoko has a great product but I’ve crashed all my rails on the 1f in the past, and not gone out of alignment, destroyed any aluminum or burned up any motors. Vacuum table is next(building in coming weeks). I love this machine. It just goes. Oh, and tramming? If needed, Is easy peasey. Their support, though in Canada, gets great reviews from me. I can’t wait to see what they come out with next. Now to save up for the shop bot pro or IS. The onefinity will buy that for me.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for sharing!

[@berndjahn6980]

Hi J, I am curios about how your Vacuum table turned out. I am also wondering where you got your 2.2 kw spindle with cable drag chains from. Thank you.

[@jshirk8]

@@berndjahn6980 The Vacuum table works really well. I LOVE it for cutting out 1/3 sheets of ply, and found that I have very little waste. I used MDF as the plenum, but I'll be replacing that with Melamine that I edge band to seal up the sides to get better suction. That way the bottom, sides, and top(minus the plenum area) will be sealed with melamine, and sealing the carved out plenum area with flex seal or something like that so that way it's completely airtight. I'll attach LDF to the top with bolts via threaded inserts in the melamine. I didn't have a chance to put the original video online. I'll do a livestream when I do it, and post it to the Onefinity Facebook page, and forum. As an additional side note, I'll also put grooves on the bottom of the plenum board to accept the QCW t-track, and mount it directly to the QCW board. I'll flex seal those grooves as well to maintain vacuum. I got my 2.2 kw spindle from Amazon. It's the Huanyang 220V 2.2 air cooled. I've also got a mophorn 2.2 water and HY 2.2 water cooled, but am having cooling system issues, so I've got the air one in currently. if you don't NEED water cooled, air is far easier to put in, and one less system to maintain. I'll put keywords in the video when it comes out to be QCW, Onefinity, Black Box Storm, Vacuum Table to make it searchable. I think the melamine will be rigid enough to not have to deal with any flex. I'm looking to use 3/4 melamine, and 3/4 ldf for simplicity. Oh, and as a side note, I'll also be building a top attachable 'table' for alternative clamping scenario's where vacuum won't work. I hope to build it, and post, in the next couple weeks.

[@HamAround23]

Just ordered a shapeoko pro XXL after going around and around looking as t these 3 machines. Carbide 3d gave me the best feeling from a customer support standpoint and it's a really capable cnc. Now I'm awaiting delivery

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Cool! I think you'll be happy with it

[@dylanm6977]

Im using the Onefinity Machinist (all the space i had). Its been amazing and ive had zero issues with it, the maintenance of the machine is super minimal, the touch screen is easy to use, I can use Either Easel or Carbide create with it so there is choice of software... Ive already made enough on it that ive paid the machine off and more. Wish I had space for a woodworker or the Journeyman... whenever i do get a larger space I have no doubts ill go back to Onefinity - 100% worth the wait time.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks for sharing!

[@b3owu1f]

What sort of things have you made on it that you sell?

[@johnshipps441]

Would love to see an update on the new models from each company!!

[@johnhubbard6262]

Two years later I am still looking at the Shapeoko and the Onefinity along with the Stepcraft M series. I was ready to pull the trigger and I found the Origin which although not technically not a CNC, it is a CNC controled router that would do most of my woodworking needs. LIfe is just to short for the amount of hobbies I have.

[@larryaugsburger8452]

I’m more in the Fox Alien price range, but this is very helpful to see what features to look for like stepper motors, belt width, and z-height.

[@Swiat34]

As a guy with industrial maintenance experience, I’ll say that I’d rather deal with belts than ball screws, especially from a “average user” standpoint. Ball screws ARE more rigid and CAN be more accurate but they will require more attention. In a factory I worked in, our panel drilling machine used compressed air nozzles to keep wood dust off the ball screws; this isn’t a good idea for a small shop owner who would be relegated to manually brushing the screws from time to time. A dry silicone based lubricant is also a good idea for them so you’ll add some extra supplies. As for belts. I’ve witnessed belt-driven machines tear apart their own steel and aluminum structures and smash through safety fences. The Shapeoko 15mm wide belt is an impressive upgrade as far as strength and rigidity goes. You’ll handily snap a bit before damaging the belts and get great resolution in your cuts with them. I’m a breath away from diving into a CNC table and I think the Shapeoko is becoming a clear front-runner in my opinion. Thanks for making this video, it really puts the important info together as it needs to be shown.

[@coulterjb22]

I bought the SO Pro while also thinking hard about the Onefinity. The Onefinity looks like a beast but in the end, I couldn't pass on the SO Pro's table. The X-Axis extrusion/rails are also very rigid and greatly improved over the other Shapeoko models. The community and Carbide's support are 2nd to none in my opinion. The wasteboard+T-slot hybrid table lets you easily tackle any work-holding strategies you're used to. The So Pro also comes with the Bitsetter which speeds up tool swaps. Love the SO Pro! Thanks for the vid.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Great points, thanks for sharing!

[@b-radg916]

I learned on a Shapeoko 3 XXL and the BitSetter IS really useful, but I am leaning toward a Onefinity because of its apparent rigidity, and ball screw drives.

[@dchh2872]

great video thank you have you looked at the Yeti Smart bench?

[@ericmichael8283]

X-carb does offer a upgrade to their x-car table at rigidity to the rails goes to a 16mm belt with new Step Motors and offers in you Z height router assembly and it does come now with a DeWalt 611 router.

[@Subie-Driver]

I am a tech teacher who uses techno small router with my students. Use solidworks and featurecam for design and tool paths. Looking for a router for when I retire. This was a great video. Has me seriously considering Onefinity.

[@timw1488]

Well thanks a lot, I was going to pull the trigger on the x-carve, I have now took that one off the list now I’m down to the other two and don’t know which one, now more research

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad I could help!

[@moderntimbercarpentry4470]

Fantastic job on this! I’m a shapoko pro owner and I must say one thing that’s intriguing with the new guy is I can literally put it on a 4x8 sheet or a table top and crave on it where I have to cut things down to fit on my hybrid table on my shapoko.

[@b-radg916]

WOW! I don’t think that’s the intent, but you’re right! You could install the Onefinity onto a sheet! 🤯

[@shdwhealr]

Awesome video! I know this videos is older, any reviews on the Bulkman3D Ultimate Queen Bee CNC? I have owned my x-carve since 2016. I have upgraded it as much as possible but I would like to upgrade machines from belt to a ball screw and linear rails as well as a water or air cooled spindle that hold a up to 1/2 bit. This is would be my hobby machine and not business. Any advice?

[@moterbikemike]

I got the onefinity journeyman never used or owned a cnc i had it set up in just few hrs and worked perfect right away

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Cool!

[@glennsiegel60]

nice compare of machines thanks. so after a year what are your thoughts now?

[@johnchristopher9902]

Thanks for this video, not yet purchased, how do you feel about your comparisons 2 yrs out. Any important thoughts?😊

[@phatroguedragon]

I'd like to see a wall mounted comparison test of the same 3 machines...but over time. I wonder what would happen to the belts versus screw in terms of maintenance.

[@siddhantchand5432]

Hi Andy! Love your support! Can you do a video on the Sienci Labs LongMill CNC Router. Been researching alot and I find it really promising for the built and size in relation to the price.

[@williamknapp4353]

Perhaps because I'm a mechanical engineer I went for the precision and stiffness of the 1F. I realize that you don't need the same level of precision when working with wood but I guess that's just an occupational hazard. I also like that the 1F is easily upgradable to a true spindle. For about $250 I got a 2.2kW (3 Hp) spindle and VFD instead of the Makita router. The spindle is significantly quieter than the router and the extra Hp lets me up the cutting speed. If you don't opt for the 1F controller you can easily connect the BuildBotics controller (1F controller is based on the Buildbotics unit). The Buildbotics unit has a few more signals out that will allow you to connect and run closed-loop steppers. That would be about a $500 upgrade for 4 motors with encoders, their drivers and power supplies. I'll probably go that way because running open-loop generally makes me uneasy. Probably just another occupational hazard. In general I find the 1F to be a great machine. It's well built, accurate, requires little maintenance and can be easily upgraded.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for sharing this

[@barryomahony4983]

What spindle did you get?

[@b-radg916]

The main reason I haven’t pulled the trigger on the X-50 is that it doesn’t allow for adjusting feedrate on the fly. Did you switch out your controller? Does it allow on the fly adjustment?

[@user-ei9tk1tx8z]

One other thing - A 4th axis add - There are some available - I don't know if they will work with the machines - It may be just adding the appropriate g-code lines to turn it.

[@dgb5820]

Wow now this is one of the best reviews that I have seen

[@harryshaw4998]

Before you gave us your opinion I had already picket the One infinity. I believe that it is held down by screws and you have to screw the unit down by screwing down the screws on the inside first I think the outside screw holes at the feet on the outside are at an angle that would cause the leg to push or pull the unit "OUT OF SQUARE" . I wished you had included the Longmill in this comparison. I purchased a CNC from Vevor which was a disaster. No support, no operation manual. So I'm stuck with something I know nothing about, now it cost me $895 plus shipping and they reimbursed me a small amount and I keep the cnc which is will be for sale pre-assembled.

[@patriotwoodworker6092]

Hi Andy. I have the Shapeoko Pro. So far so good. I bought late last year and it was so it didn’t come w assembly instructions! I have a 15 minute KZbin video to watch. I’ve upgraded to to include the bit setter, and the xyz setter thing. I use the carbide create pro since it’s soooo much cheaper than vcarve. The support from is them is amazing as I’ve emailed called and face timed yes FaceTime! In the beginning I’ve had issues with the controller and the power button which they overnighted to me free. I do love the look of the one finitey though. I’m selling coasters like crazy!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for sharing. All these are great points!

[@nightcarverdesigns]

Great comparison. I’ve never tried the Shapeko but have the others and the onefinity makes the X-carve look like a little baby. I sold my X-carve after a week of having the onefinity.

[@bennygerow]

I love your work!

[@nightcarverdesigns]

@@bennygerow thank you so much.

[@charlespage4380]

Just ran across your video. Have you thought about doing another update comparison? I looked up the Onefinity and it appears they have made leaps and bounds since your video. Curious what your thoughts are. As I have never had or used one, but am interested. Thinking first project would be new kitchen cabinets after learning how to use it. Thanks in advance.

[@user-xk6xg1gd8v]

Hello, I am in the market for my first CNC machine. This video was very helpful but I am wondering if any of your review has changed in the last couple of years? Is there another to look at? Still feel Shapeoko and Onefinity are the best out there? I actually created my own spreadsheet and reviewed several others but came down to the three you reviewed. Threw out Inventables for a lot of the reason you listed (but did download their software to start designing). If you have any updates I would love to hear them! Thanks!

[@jamesalexander5388]

I agree with most of your analysis. With the exception of your final spreadsheet breakdown. To make things equal, you added the cost of the Makita Router to the overall cost of the OneFinity, but then you made note of the negativity of not coming with a router. If it is a negative, you should not have added the price to the overall cost, but if you are insistent on adding the cost, you can’t make it a negative. As a OneFinity owner, I have found the support second to none when it came to issues. OneFinity’s rapid response to queries and problems is exceptional and very rapid… even on weekends and after hours.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

I get what you're saying. I just don't see it that way. But looking at the big picture, what's $80 bucks when we're talking about $2500

[@JanHilt]

So ..... 1 year later. Are there any new frontrunners coming to market that beat any of the 3 mentioned here? Great job on the video Andy. 👍 Helped me a lot in understanding some basics.

[@EndDayz]

Looking into cnc for the first time in detail And for what I can see most of these machines are built with very cheap components these are glorified 3D printer frames. What I’m looking for it quality linear rails & ball and screw at least geared nema27 . I’m sure we can make better. A open source project is most likely my next move at these prices could get some good parts is my thinking. Thanks for the upload.

[@rip5707]

Thanks - have you also done a software comparison for these machines ??

[@ericmichael8283]

India enjoy your videos and all the information you offer to everybody out there in the CNC world. By myself m a x-carve owner the one thing I didn't notice that you had said in your video of the three comparisons the height is only two and a half inches not four and a half

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks for sharing!

[@st0mper121]

As a owner of a Onefinity woodworker. You don't want a onefinity CNC. They have issues with getting replacement parts. My screen died and i had to go to amazon and replace the part myself while Onefinity support could not stop playing with themselves and order me a new screen. My screen was out of stock on amazon i had to wait almost 2 months to get screen replaced. Onefinity has also blown out power switches on the controller a few times as well. it became a annoyance (had to buy power switches in a 5 pack) but it has been over a year or 2 sense it has done it last. and because of my Onefinity not being to run for 2 months I got way behind and i was saving up for the Masso upgrade anyway so im buying a shapeoko to replace my Onefinity.

[@patrickhfrazier6771]

Very very good video. Thank you.

[@ComgrowOfficial]

Hello Andy, loved this video♥

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@AaronSprague1]

I purchased an x-carve and yes it took all of the 16 hours to build. That said I got it for about 2000$ fully loaded. Don't know if it will perform yet still building out the CNC table and shop space.

[@reaper060670]

Brilliant CNC video Andy bro.. I live in IRELAND and CNC's are not a major thing here atm as far as I know. I mentioned building my own to people I work with and my job designs and builds routers and the boards. I'm new to all this stuff but I have been buying the component parts to build my own. My failings will show up once I begin getting into the software to run this bad boy I want to build. I bought Longrunner Nema 17 stepper motors and I will buy the 1200mm lead screws for the Axis on all fronts. Atm they're very expensive but I will put the lead screws on both sides and I will buy the shorter length screws for the Axis thaT HOLDS THE SPINDLE, ETC. Like I already said this is all new to me but I know I can build the CNC eventually. I want to learn about how to set up the Steppers. I looked at a Shapoko? for about 800 Euros which was a desktop but it was about 400mm x 400mm cutting size or so. I get u lose some of the board cutting size due to parts on the rails. I have a fair bit to learn over the next 12 months pal but I'm all in now. It's going to take me a little time to get to where I wanna go but eventually I want to build my own small business that please God takes off and allows me to give back to my community in terms of education for youths coming through. Most young folks today have a great grounding in computers and all it entails which I never got in school but after school is where a lot of them get caught up in some BS.. I wanna change that eventually. I will take a few years but I intend on changing a whole lot of things around my hometown. Apologies for rabbiting on so much bro. Love ur playlist on here too. So much brilliant information on the videos and I will be picking ur brain one day soon about other things in this line. Thanks for the information Andy mate and keep up the great work.

[@D-GatDesignsLLC]

I have a Longmill and love it! I looked into all these for a long time. At the end of the day the xcarve and shapoko were too light duty and small for the price. The onefinity almost won me over but the super long shipping wait was its downfall. So I went with the longmill and received within 3 weeks and have had it for a little over a month and love it.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

I've been hearing this a lot. I need to check it out. Thanks for sharing

[@scottadams6549]

I’ve been researching the LongMill, and for the price is very tempting!

[@D-GatDesignsLLC]

My only complaints of the longmill is it has to be tethered to a PC, the limit sensors are sold separately (not that expensive, should be standard) and some of the parts are 3D printed and can me difficult to install some hardware.

[@scottadams6549]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@b-radg916]

The Longmill MK2 and Onefinity Journeyman X-50 are on my short list. Does the Longmill allow for adjusting feedrate on the fly? The X-50 doesn’t, although the new Elite Journeyman does (but has a 16-18 week lead time 😩). You can put a third party controller on the X-50 to do it, but I’m not all that interested in taking apart a brand new machine to make it work how I think it should. Thanks!

[@Goknolz]

Andy, thanks for the video. I don’t own a cnc, but have been researching for a few months. I’m about to open a concrete countertop business and was look at a desktop machine to make business logo out of foam to create pub tables, bar tops, etc. Still trying to decide between desktop or something that can cut a 4x8 sheet of melamine, but that’s a huge cost jump. Regardless, thanks for the video.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad you enjoyed the video. When it comes to a desktop or 4x8 you're on the right track. You'll have to decide what you want to use it for vs. the additional cost.

[@cathleenyoung1616]

What are your thoughts on the cnc4newbie. I was looking at this model HSNC 4848RP

[@donspoor8367]

Have you seen the MYSWEETY 4030 machine and if so what do you think. I can't find anything about it online. It looks like it's an Amazon product. I'm also looking at a Fox Alien. what do you think.

[@Jeff034]

Thank you - you seem honest and that's rare. cheers

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

I appreciate that. It means a lot

[@erickessler8959]

One year out. Any thought changes? Onefinity fully loaded versus the Shapeoko Pro with integrated bit setter/etc…..?

[@jimbrown8573]

Great video! I am wanting to purchase and came across this video in my list. Being new to CNC and not having actually used one yet, I am torn between the OneFinity and the Shapeoko............both seem like great machines and both have options that the other doesn't. No idea how to decide!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

For someone with your experience, I'd pick Shapeoko every time. Both machines are more than capable. But Shapeoko goes above and beyond when it comes to taking care of their customers. The resources that you will have access too are unmatched. Send me an email and we can talk more. [e-mail]

[@OGs_Playground]

Hi! Rob, the Shapeoko user here. I did my part and watched this video for the full 31 minutes and then some, rewinding and reviewing to understand each point fully. As a subscriber, I expect a more confident answer than "either - or" or "lean towards". C'mon Andy... Commit and say it with your chest pal. That's a whole lotta video to watch to not be presented with the answer to the question posed in the title. Not an intentional Karen but accountability is really important. Life if far too short to mince words. Other than that, thank you for all the tips you delivered to me over time. Love the channel.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thank you for watching and your perspective. I don't believe it's a black and white answer otherwise I would have given one. I clearly pointed out which machine is stronger where. But it would be naive of me to state that one machine is clearing the best in EVERY category when it's not.

[@OGs_Playground]

@@AndyBirdBuilds All great info I've never seen in 1 place. Great video nonetheless.

[@jpm_nt_i9308]

Last year, I got the OneFinity X35 on a QCW table. This thing is an absolute rock solid beast! Yeah, it's backordered but well worth the wait. I went with VCarve Pro for the CAD/CAM and had it it up and running and carving within two hours. I used 1" MDF for the waist-board. It's done everything I've asked it to.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks for sharing

[@foxalien_official]

The FoxAlien CNC Router Vasto is a nice choice.

[@normmthestormm5719]

I just bought a 4x8 cutting surface cnc from Bobscnc for 1500, @Andy Bird Builds you should take a look at the "Evolution 5".

[@benco804]

You should do another one of these and include the Stepcraft in the line up.

[@nathanreineke8848]

What do you think of the OpenBuilds LEAD CNC Machine 1010?? I'm thinking of purchasing but wanted to hear others opinions.

[@jameslitzinger1037]

I was a shapeoko fan as it was my first machine but I wanted more accuracy with ball and screw. Got the onefinity woodworker as my second machine and it is a beast. I absolutely love it. Yea the shapeoko can go together in a few hours but you will spend several more tinkering with it if you want truly accurate cuts. With the onefinity I barely had to square it or tinker with it. I also move often so the ability to break down the onefinity in a matter of maybe 30 minutes and put it back in its original boxes is absolutely one it’s best qualities. As for if it slams into a stop it doesn’t hurt the machine. If the stepper motors end up exerting more than a certain voltage (as in the case of trying to slam into a stop) they stutter and keep the machine from hurting itself. It doesn’t sound good when it happens but it’s just the motor protecting itself and it’s really not hurting anything at all. The ONLY downside to onefinity is it’s still new so there are still lots of new things coming out for it and there are things being upgraded. The community is also still small compared to xcarve and shapeoko so you have to learn on your own with a few things rather than having a community to reach out too.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks for sharing, James!

[@chucknesbit9424]

Which Shapeoko did you have? I understand the Shapeoko 4 and Shapeoko Pro are much better than the Shapeoko 3.

[@b-radg916]

I’m right behind you. I learned on a Shapeoko 3 XXL and loved it, but want something more rigid for my own machine. I’m hesitating because the X-50 doesn’t allow for adjusting feedrate on the fly 😕 The Elite Journeyman does (but has a 16-18 week lead time 😩 and costs more). You can put a third party controller on the X-50 to do it, but I’m not all that interested in taking apart a brand new machine to make it work how I think it should. If you went from a Shapeoko I’m thinking you were used to being able to adjust. Is it OK without?

[@lawriesharp]

Hi Andy, Great video which has prompted me to go for a Shapeoko machine. On other videos I have seen they recommend a 2.2kw spindle router is fitted. Would you recommend that OR is the Makita RT0700C more than capable for CNC work? Keep up the great work.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Sorry for the late reply. But it depends on what you'll be cutting and how much you'll be using it as far as the spindle.

[@aviram6491]

What would you say is better for corian soil surface for 2d or 3d design?

[@spectrumwoodworksllc5359]

Someone has probably asked this question. but im getting ready to pull the trigger on the pro xl. is it better to have the bit setter?? or do I really need it at this time?? Thank you in advance Andy

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Cool! The Bitsetter is my favorite feature. shop.carbide3d.com/andybirdbuilds

[@Lauriemine]

Can the onefinity be placed on a larger sheet, clamped down all corners, and set to cut depth below the height of the cnc?

[@Shad0wD3v]

X-Carve realistically is a 40 hour assembly. I have one, took about 40 hours. A lot of people who put one together for the first time have also reported 40 or so hours to assemble.

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Wow. Thats crazy to me

[@robertosanvicente1914]

Have you made a comparison with LongMill MK2 vs onefinity? What you think of this machine?

[@domthetrainer7530]

I’ve been waiting fir you to drop a vid

[@manhardatta4721]

Great explanation

[@8thsinner]

I started researching about six months ago and joined both onefinity and shapeoko forums, They both seem equally capable in my mind and from what I have seen. I still am choosing to go for the shapeoko xxl pro though, the z axis isn't as good, which won't matter too much to me, it has more history and thus more unofficial potential support, the 30 screw up warranty is fantastic and the bed size is larger which for me is a big deal. (btw the lead times on onefinity at the moment seem to be more like 4-5 weeks and not 3 months anymore...) If the onefinity came out with a larger bed, hybrid table and first month warranty though, that would probably sway me towards them. Elsewise, my next one is likely an avid 48x48

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Great thoughts!

[@moterbikemike]

onefinity journeyman cut area of 48x36

[@OnefinityCNC]

Great video Andy! Thanks for including us! :P

[@rayvidal411]

First let me say think you very much for this video.. very well done and I was just about ready to purchase my CNC.. when another friends presented one more company to look into.. I've done some research into the CNC but wanted to see what your thoughts are on the LongMill 30x30... my main use for this Machine is to help in the production of my Custom Guitars. do you have any thoughts on this company and the Long mill 30 x 30

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad I could help. I don't have any experience with the Longmill, I think its worth a consideration. Just make sure you know what your buying and look at what the kit comes with. Just because the price is cheaper, doesn't mean it comes with everything you'll need.

[@justinrehms4530]

I think the best part that separates all of them is the 30 day you break it we will fix it free on us by Shapeoko. Me being who I am I’ll not find a way to break things but I can imagine I’ll break something within the first 30 days as I’m as green in this field as a freshly cut tree. I’m kind of hard on tools because I will put them to their fullest potential if not beyond if I can find a way. Being the tinkerer that I am having such a fun tool as this I could easily burn this out for the time I can spend on it np. I hope to have my shop built next year so I can pull the trigger on one of these fine machines because, well, it’s a super cool toy and I love big boy toys especially for wood working.

[@nevillewomersley7841]

As an Australian, what options and what would be the availability of the machines you have just reviewed. I am quite interested in exploring the usage of CNC machines. Neville

[@ApexWoodworks]

Wondering why you didn't include Sienci Labs Longmill in this comparison, as it's in the same category.

[@d3w4yn3]

The ONEFINITY also didn't include the actual router. Great review of apples-to-apples comparison, I specifically really appreciate the insight on assembly times!!! Limiting my ability to do things wrong and break things!

[@d3w4yn3]

Ignore me! You caught that in your wrap-up! You, good Sir, have out-detailed me!

[@randallsmith7885]

Thanks for this review. I am in the market for a desktop CNC and need to understand the basics. I have heard good things about the LongMill CNC - especially regarding rigidity. Those rails look solid. Thoughts?

[@b-radg916]

Garrett Fromme reviews his 48” MK2 and at one point stands on the X gantry and then goes for a ride in the Y direction! 🤯 THAT’S a good demonstration of rigidity!! I’ve heard there are videos of people doing that with the Journeyman X-50, but haven’t found any.

[@matthewhoheisel4840]

Set up time means extremely very little to me, considering the life of the experience. I’d rather spend 3 days building something if it’s cheaper, better,bigger, has software etc etc. or honestly even one of those things. That’s me though. Fantastic video. Well spoken. Thank you.

[@rjensen6215]

how would you compare these machines to the cnc4newbies new carve machine's?

[@donproctor3445]

what machine will cut product that is 6 in thick? I want to cut holes in 6In vinyl sleeve material

[@triumfdula8830]

Hi, wanted to ask about another cnc called workbee and what is the deiffernece between 1. ooznest 2. openbuilds and 3. bulkman since they all display the workbee ?

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Sorry, I don't know anything about the workbee.

[@TradeSkillersAnonymous]

Hey Andy, really liked your video (just like your others, great presentation style, excellent info). I've had a onefinity since January and think it's a great machine. I've done a review on my channel if you care to see it. You covered every important item to consider for a new CNC intender, well done sir!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Thanks so much for the support! Most of all I'm glad to hear that the covered all the right information!

[@AxialHD1987]

I would be curious of what you think of the Yora Home Silverback. Its an American company.

[@jefferycoleman4371]

You did good man, thank you!

[@AndyBirdBuilds]

Glad it helped!