Our Pick: Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router
It scores 90/100 overall versus 80/100, winning 8 out of 10 comparison categories.
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
Pros
- Industrial-grade linear rails and ball screws
- Steel frame provides exceptional rigidity
- Can cut aluminum aggressively
- True CNC motion controller (not GRBL) for advanced features
- Scales to larger Avid machines if you outgrow it
Cons
- Expensive for the work area offered
- Router/spindle not included
- Mach4 software has a steep learning curve
- Requires a Windows PC with parallel port or motion controller
- Assembly is more involved than consumer machines
Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router
Pros
- Full 4x8 foot work area handles entire sheet goods
- Welded steel frame with linear rails and ball screws
- Industrial-grade rigidity for aggressive cutting
- Avid CNC has an excellent reputation and support
- Can cut aluminum, hardwoods, composites, and plastics
Cons
- Expensive -- $7000 base before spindle and electronics
- Total cost with spindle, VFD, and wiring approaches $10000
- Extremely heavy and requires significant shop space
- Complex multi-day assembly requires mechanical expertise
- Mach4 software has a steep learning curve
Verdict
Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router wins this comparison with 8 categories to 2.
It scores 90/100 overall versus 80/100, winning 8 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
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Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router
$7000As an Amazon Associate, CNCRouterInfo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 and Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router?
The Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 ($2800) features a 710W spindle with a 610×610mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with linear rails and ball screws frame. The Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router ($7000) features a 2200W spindle with a 1220×2440mm work area and a Welded steel frame with linear rails and ball screws frame. Overall, the Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router?
The Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 is $4200 cheaper at $2800 vs $7000. Our value scores rate the Avid CNC PRO4896 CNC Router higher at 52/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 scores higher (40/100 vs 20/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.