Our Pick: Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router
It wins 8 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $300 less.
Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router wins 5 of 5 spec categories. Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router costs $300 less. Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router leads by 4 points overall — here’s where those points come from:
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router
Pros
- Modular extrusion and steel plate frame
- Profile linear guides with rack-and-pinion X/Y and ball-screw Z
- 1260 x 609 mm working area for smaller panels
Cons
- Configured cost depends on motor, spindle and accessory choices
- A control PC and spoilboard still need to be supplied
- Standard machine weight is 154 kg; plan handling and installation
- CNC12 setup and machine calibration are required
- Complex assembly requires mechanical aptitude
ShopBot Desktop MAX
Pros
- Industrial 1HP spindle included in the current package
- ShopBot's 25+ years of CNC expertise
- Maker provides training resources and technical support
- Industrial-quality components
- Strong resale value
Cons
- Very expensive for a benchtop machine
- Proprietary ShopBot control software only
- Heavy -- needs a very sturdy table
- Moderate work area for the price
Verdict
Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router wins this comparison with 8 categories to 2.
It wins 8 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $300 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router
$4500ShopBot Desktop MAX
$4800As 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 PRO4824 CNC Router and ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router ($4,500) features a 3000W spindle with a 1260×609mm work area and a Aluminum extrusion and steel plate construction, profile linear guides, rack and pinion on X/Y, ball screw on Z frame. The ShopBot Desktop MAX ($4,800) features a 746W spindle with a 915×610mm work area and a Machined aluminum structure, bolted and pinned, with THK linear guides and anti-backlash lead screws frame. Overall, the Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router or ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router is $300 cheaper at $4,500 vs $4,800. Our value scores rate the Avid CNC PRO4824 CNC Router higher at 52/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the ShopBot Desktop MAX scores higher (72/100 vs 22/100). Both support Mach4, Fusion 360, VCarve Pro among other software options.