Our Pick: Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
It scores 80/100 overall versus 56/100, 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
MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC)
Pros
- Extremely low cost with 3D printed parts
- Customizable work area size
- Active community and thorough documentation
- Can be configured as CNC router, laser cutter, or pen plotter
- Great educational project for learning CNC mechanics
Cons
- Requires a 3D printer to make parts
- Rigidity is limited by conduit tube frame
- Larger build areas reduce accuracy significantly
- Significant build time (20-40 hours)
- Not suitable for metal cutting
Verdict
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins this comparison with 8 categories to 2.
It scores 80/100 overall versus 56/100, winning 8 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
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Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC)
$233As 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 MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC)?
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 MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC) ($233) features a 660W spindle with a 600×600mm work area and a 3D printed parts + EMT conduit/stainless steel tubing frame. Overall, the Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC)?
The MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC) is $2567 cheaper at $233 vs $2800. Our value scores rate the MPCNC Primo (Mostly Printed CNC) higher at 92/100.
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 25/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.
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