Our Pick: Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
It scores 80/100 overall versus 62/100, winning 5 out of 8 comparison categories.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins 2 of 3 spec categories. Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 costs $2,000 less. Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 leads by 18 points overall — here’s where those points come from:
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
Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12
Pros
- Excellent documentation and beginner-friendly setup from Sienci
- Anti-backlash ACME lead screws on all axes
- gSender is a polished, purpose-built CNC sender
- Active community forums with responsive manufacturer support
- Generous Z-axis travel of 114mm
Cons
- Small 12x12 inch work area for a machine at this price
- Router not included adds $100+ to total cost
- Larger LongMill models offer better value per square inch
- V-wheel motion system rather than linear rails
- Lead screws are slower than ball screws
Verdict
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins this comparison with 5 categories to 3.
It scores 80/100 overall versus 62/100, winning 5 out of 8 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12
$800As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links may earn a commission at no extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 and Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12?
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 Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 ($800) features a 710W spindle with a 305×305mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with anti-backlash lead screws frame. Overall, the Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12?
The Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 is $2000 cheaper at $800 vs $2800. Our value scores rate the Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 higher at 58/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 scores higher (88/100 vs 40/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.