Our Pick: Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router
It wins 7 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $600 less.
Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router wins 5 of 5 spec categories. Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router costs $600 less. Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router leads by 10 points overall — here’s where those points come from:
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine
Pros
- Designed for small aluminum, plastic and soft-metal parts
- Fully enclosed and self-contained
- Bantam software imports CAM-generated G-code, including Fusion 360 output
- Excellent for rapid prototyping
Cons
- Small working volume of 178 x 229 x 83 mm
- Extremely expensive for the size
- 250W spindle limits material removal rate
- The small bed limits panel-sized woodworking projects
- Bantam software is required to operate the machine, but it accepts external CAM G-code
Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router
Pros
- 635 x 1270mm (25 x 50 inch) cutting travel for larger woodworking parts
- VCarve Pro and Next Wave control software included; router purchased separately
- Steel-reinforced aluminum gantry
- 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
- Needs a sturdy work surface and room for the full table footprint
- A suitable full-size router or spindle kit adds to the complete-system cost
Verdict
Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router wins this comparison with 7 categories to 2.
It wins 7 out of 9 comparison categories while costing $600 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine
$3600Next 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 Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine and Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router?
The Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine ($3,600) features a 250W spindle with a 178×229mm work area and a Powder-coated steel frame with full enclosure, door interlocks and emergency stop. Overall, the Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine or Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router?
The Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router is $600 cheaper at $3,000 vs $3,600. 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 Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine scores higher (88/100 vs 88/100). Both support Bantam Tools Software, Fusion 360, KiCad via Gerber-to-G-code CAM, such as FlatCAM among other software options.
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