Our Pick: Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
It scores 80/100 overall versus 78/100, winning 6 out of 10 comparison categories.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins 3 of 5 spec categories. Shapeoko 5 Pro costs $1,000 less. The overall scores are virtually tied — the differences are in the details below.
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
Shapeoko 5 Pro
Pros
- Linear rails on all axes for precision
- Router included -- truly ready to cut out of the box
- Carbide Create and Motion software are free and excellent
- Steel and aluminum hybrid frame is very rigid
- Active community forum with years of knowledge
Cons
- Small work area for the price compared to competitors
- Proprietary controller limits third-party software
- Belt-driven X and Y axes limit positioning accuracy
- Premium price point for a 16x16 inch work area
Verdict
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436 wins this comparison with 6 categories to 4.
It scores 80/100 overall versus 78/100, winning 6 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC Benchtop Pro 2436
$2800Shapeoko 5 Pro
$1800As 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 Shapeoko 5 Pro?
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 Shapeoko 5 Pro ($1800) features a 930W spindle with a 406×406mm work area and a Hybrid steel and aluminum with linear 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 Shapeoko 5 Pro?
The Shapeoko 5 Pro is $1000 cheaper at $1800 vs $2800. Our value scores rate the Shapeoko 5 Pro higher at 52/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Shapeoko 5 Pro scores higher (92/100 vs 40/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve among other software options.