Our Pick: Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
It scores 68/100 overall versus 64/100, winning 5 out of 9 comparison categories.
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress)
Pros
- 800W water-cooled spindle at budget price
- Cast aluminum frame is rigid
- Can cut aluminum and brass
- Huge aftermarket parts ecosystem
Cons
- Quality varies hugely between sellers
- May need rewiring for safety
- Documentation is often poor or in Chinese
- Shipping takes 2-6 weeks
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
Pros
- VCarve Desktop software included ($350 value)
- Router included for true out-of-box operation
- Precision-ground steel rails provide smooth motion
- Long 914mm Y-axis is great for guitar necks and long workpieces
- US-based company with phone support
Cons
- Proprietary controller limits third-party software options
- Narrow 406mm X-axis limits project width
- Premium price for the work area compared to Onefinity or Shapeoko
- Smaller community than competitors
- Upgrade path to larger machines requires a new purchase
Verdict
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins this comparison with 5 categories to 4.
It scores 68/100 overall versus 64/100, winning 5 out of 9 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Support CNCRouterInfo by using our affiliate links.
CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress)
$350Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
$2000As an Amazon Associate, CNCRouterInfo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress) and Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router?
The CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress) ($350) features a 800W spindle with a 300×400mm work area and a Cast aluminum frame. The Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router ($2000) features a 710W spindle with a 406×914mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-ground rails frame. Overall, the Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress) or Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router?
The CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress) is $1650 cheaper at $350 vs $2000. Our value scores rate the CNC 3040 Router (AliExpress) higher at 92/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router scores higher (88/100 vs 30/100). Both support Mach3, Candle, UGS among other software options.