Our Pick: ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router
It wins 6 out of 9 comparison categories across specs and benchmark scores.
Specs are evenly split between both machines. CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router costs $24,127 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
CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router
Pros
- Welded steel frame provides exceptional rigidity
- 2.2kW spindle included handles aggressive cuts
- Industrial-grade precision with linear rails and ball screws
- CAMaster has an excellent reputation for build quality
- Made in the USA with strong customer support
Cons
- Very expensive for a 2x2 foot work area
- Extremely heavy -- requires professional installation
- Overkill for most hobby applications
- Mach4 software requires Windows PC and has a learning curve
- Smaller community than more popular hobby brands
ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router
Pros
- Closed-loop drives correct position and stop with an alarm instead of silently losing steps
- Published cutting speed up to 720 in/min (18.3 m/min) and rapids up to 1,800 in/min (45.7 m/min)
- Rails sit level with the bed, so sheets load from any side, and the space under the table stays open
- Starting price includes a 2.2 hp HSD spindle with VFD and RPM control, plus VCarve Pro
- Two-year warranty, lifetime phone support and detailed documentation from ShopBot in North Carolina
Cons
- Starts at $31,127 before vacuum hold-down, a bigger spindle, longer Z or the ATC version
- Needs a licensed electrician: 120 V for the motors plus 220 V single-phase or three-phase for the spindle
- Ships as modules for on-site assembly; the gantry alone weighs over 150 lb (68 kg) and needs two people
- Rack, pinions and V-rails need regular cleaning and greasing
- Takes a 120 x 79 in (3048 x 2007 mm) footprint for the 4 x 8 size
Verdict
ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router wins this comparison with 6 categories to 3.
It wins 6 out of 9 comparison categories across specs and benchmark scores.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router
$7000ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router
$31127As 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 CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router and ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router?
The CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router ($7,000) features a 2200W spindle with a 610×610mm work area and a Welded steel frame with precision linear rails. Overall, the ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router or ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router?
The CAMaster Stinger I CNC Router is $24,127 cheaper at $7,000 vs $31,127. Our value scores rate the ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router higher at 38/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the ShopBot PRS5 Alpha CNC Router scores higher (72/100 vs 50/100). Both support Mach4, VCarve Pro, Aspire among other software options.