Our Pick: Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $300 less.
Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router wins 3 of 4 spec categories. Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router costs $300 less. Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 leads by 8 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
Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router
Pros
- VCarve Desktop software included ($350 value)
- Router included for out-of-box operation
- Generous 711x914mm work area for woodworking projects
- Steel rails and robust frame for good rigidity
- US-based phone support from Next Wave
Cons
- Proprietary controller limits software flexibility
- Smaller community than Shapeoko, X-Carve, or Onefinity
- Pricey compared to kit-based alternatives with similar work areas
- Limited upgrade options within the Shark ecosystem
- Assembly is straightforward but the machine is heavy
Verdict
Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router wins this comparison with 5 categories to 4.
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $300 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router
$2500As 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 Next Wave Shark HD510 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 Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router ($2500) features a 710W spindle with a 711×914mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-ground rails frame. Overall, the Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router?
The Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router is $300 cheaper at $2500 vs $2800. Our value scores rate the Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router higher at 55/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Next Wave Shark HD510 CNC Router scores higher (88/100 vs 40/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.