Our Pick: Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker)
It scores 82/100 overall versus 62/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine
Pros
- Outstanding precision for PCB milling and small parts
- Fully enclosed and self-contained
- Software is extremely easy to use, especially for PCBs
- Excellent for rapid prototyping
- Used by engineers at SpaceX, Google, and other tech companies
Cons
- Very small work area -- only 140x254mm
- Extremely expensive for the size
- 250W spindle limits material removal rate
- Not suitable for woodworking or large projects
- Proprietary software limits flexibility
Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker)
Pros
- Cast iron and steel frame provides outstanding rigidity
- 2.2kW VFD spindle included for aggressive metal cutting
- Ball screws and linear rails on all axes
- Same excellent Carbide software ecosystem
- Can cut aluminum, steel, and titanium
Cons
- Very small 406x406mm work area for the price
- Extremely heavy at 68kg -- needs a very sturdy bench
- Proprietary controller limits third-party options
- Steep price for hobbyist use
Verdict
Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker) wins this comparison with 7 categories to 3.
It scores 82/100 overall versus 62/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
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Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine
$3600Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker)
$4000As an Amazon Associate, CNCRouterInfo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine and Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker)?
The Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine ($3600) features a 250W spindle with a 140×254mm work area and a Fully enclosed steel and aluminum frame. The Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker) ($4000) features a 2200W spindle with a 406×406mm work area and a Cast iron and steel with linear rails and ball screws frame. Overall, the Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker) wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine or Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker)?
The Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine is $400 cheaper at $3600 vs $4000. Our value scores rate the Shapeoko 5 HDM (Heavy Duty Metalworker) higher at 40/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine scores higher (88/100 vs 85/100). Both support Bantam Tools Software, Fusion 360, KiCad (PCB milling) among other software options.
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