Our Pick: Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $200 less.
Specs are evenly split between both machines. Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 costs $200 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 HD520 CNC Router
Pros
- Large 711x1600mm work area handles big woodworking projects
- VCarve Desktop and router included -- truly turnkey
- Steel frame maintains good rigidity even at this size
- US-based company with phone support
- Precision-ground rails for smooth, accurate motion
Cons
- At $3000, the proprietary controller is a significant limitation
- Large footprint requires dedicated shop space
- Heavy at 52kg -- needs a sturdy work surface
- Smaller user community than competing platforms
- 710W trim router may be underpowered for aggressive cuts at this machine size
Verdict
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins this comparison with 5 categories to 4.
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $200 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router
$3000As 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 HD520 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 HD520 CNC Router ($3000) features a 710W spindle with a 711×1600mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-ground rails frame. Overall, the Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 or Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router?
The Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 is $200 cheaper at $2800 vs $3000. Our value scores rate the Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router higher at 50/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router scores higher (88/100 vs 40/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.