Our Pick: PrintNC
It scores 84/100 overall versus 55/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
MakerMade M2 CNC Router
Pros
- Full 4x8 foot cutting area for sheet goods
- Improved chain tensioning over original Maslow design
- MakerMade provides commercial support and warranty
- Excellent for cutting cabinet parts and furniture pieces
- Vertical storage takes minimal floor space
Cons
- Very slow cutting speed compared to conventional CNC routers
- Accuracy degrades significantly at the edges and corners
- Limited Z-axis depth restricts to thin materials
- Requires building a large vertical frame
- Software can be finicky and requires patience to calibrate
PrintNC
Pros
- Extremely rigid steel frame
- Cuts aluminum and steel with ease
- Fully open source — modify everything
- Active community and detailed build wiki
- Large work area for the price
Cons
- Full DIY build — expect 40-80 hours
- Needs welding or a local fab shop
- Sourcing parts from multiple vendors
- No customer support — community only
- Total cost depends heavily on component choices
Verdict
PrintNC wins this comparison with 7 categories to 3.
It scores 84/100 overall versus 55/100, winning 7 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
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MakerMade M2 CNC Router
$1198PrintNC
$1200As an Amazon Associate, CNCRouterInfo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between MakerMade M2 CNC Router and PrintNC?
The MakerMade M2 CNC Router ($1198) features a 900W spindle with a 1220×2440mm work area and a Hanging sled on vertical frame (frame built from plywood) frame. The PrintNC ($1200) features a 2200W spindle with a 630×835mm work area and a Steel tube (welded or bolted) frame. Overall, the PrintNC wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — MakerMade M2 CNC Router or PrintNC?
The MakerMade M2 CNC Router is $2 cheaper at $1198 vs $1200. Our value scores rate the PrintNC higher at 95/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the MakerMade M2 CNC Router scores higher (42/100 vs 15/100). Both support MakerMade Ground Control, WebControl, UGS among other software options.