MakerMade M2 CNC Router wins 3 of 5 spec categories. MakerMade M2 CNC Router costs $1,602 less. Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 leads by 25 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
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
Verdict
These routers are evenly matched with 5 wins each. The right choice depends on your specific priorities — compare individual specs and scores above to decide.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800MakerMade M2 CNC Router
$1198As 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 MakerMade M2 CNC Router?
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 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. Both machines are evenly matched overall.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or MakerMade M2 CNC Router?
The MakerMade M2 CNC Router is $1602 cheaper at $1198 vs $2800. Our value scores rate the MakerMade M2 CNC Router higher at 88/100.
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 40/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.