Our Pick: ShopBot Desktop MAX
It scores 82/100 overall versus 78/100, winning 5 out of 9 comparison categories.
Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router wins 3 of 5 spec categories. ShopBot Desktop MAX costs $199 less. ShopBot Desktop MAX 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
Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router
Pros
- 2.2 kW (3 HP) liquid-cooled spindle and onboard cooling system included
- Standalone B18 controller runs files from USB without a tethered PC
- Linear guides and 16 mm ball screws on all three axes
- 48 V stepper motors and prewiring for the optional rotary axis and laser
- 150 mm Z travel and 165 mm gantry clearance above the table
Cons
- 24 x 24 inch work area is small for the money at full list price
- Needs a 220 V single-phase, 10 A supply
- No CAM software included; VCarve or Aspire is extra
- Stand and toolbox are sold separately, and the machine weighs about 146 kg
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
ShopBot Desktop MAX wins this comparison with 5 categories to 4.
It scores 82/100 overall versus 78/100, winning 5 out of 9 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router
$4999ShopBot 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 Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router and ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router ($4,999) features a 2200W spindle with a 610×610mm work area and a All-welded steel base, interlocking aluminum extrusion table with MDF spoilboard, aluminum extrusion gantry on gravity-cast supports, prismatic linear guides and 16 mm ball screws on X, Y and 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 ShopBot Desktop MAX wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router or ShopBot Desktop MAX?
The ShopBot Desktop MAX is $199 cheaper at $4,800 vs $4,999. Our value scores rate the Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router higher at 52/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Axiom Precision AR4 Pro V6 CNC Router scores higher (75/100 vs 72/100). Both support Mach4, UCCNC, VCarve Pro (included) among other software options.