Our Pick: Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router
It scores 88/100 overall versus 82/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router
Pros
- Full 4x4 foot work area with industrial rigidity
- Welded steel frame is vastly more rigid than aluminum extrusion
- Linear rails and ball screws on all axes
- Cuts aluminum aggressively and can handle mild steel
- Professional-grade machine at a prosumer price
Cons
- Very expensive -- $5200 before spindle and electronics
- Total cost with spindle, VFD, and accessories exceeds $7000
- Heavy -- requires concrete floor or heavy-duty stand
- Steep learning curve with Mach4
- Assembly is complex and time-consuming
ShopBot Desktop MAX
Pros
- Powerful 3.25 HP router included
- ShopBot's 25+ years of CNC expertise
- Excellent customer support and training resources
- Industrial-quality components
- Strong resale value
Cons
- Very expensive for a benchtop machine
- Proprietary ShopBot control software only
- Heavy -- needs a very sturdy table
- Moderate work area for the price
Verdict
Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router wins this comparison with 7 categories to 3.
It scores 88/100 overall versus 82/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Support CNCRouterInfo by using our affiliate links.
Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router
$5200ShopBot Desktop MAX
$4800As an Amazon Associate, CNCRouterInfo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router and ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router ($5200) features a 2200W spindle with a 1220×1220mm work area and a Welded steel frame with linear rails and ball screws frame. The ShopBot Desktop MAX ($4800) features a 2425W spindle with a 610×914mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-machined components frame. Overall, the Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router or ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The ShopBot Desktop MAX is $400 cheaper at $4800 vs $5200. Our value scores rate the Avid CNC PRO4848 CNC Router higher at 55/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the ShopBot Desktop MAX scores higher (72/100 vs 25/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve Pro among other software options.