Our Pick: CNC 6040 Router

It wins 6 out of 9 comparison categories across specs and benchmark scores.

CNC 6040
Spec
Sienci LongMill
$800
Price
$800
600 × 400 mm
Work area
305 × 305 mm
75 mm
Z travel
114 mm
800 W
Spindle power
710 W
45 kg
Weight
18 kg
Seller-dependent aluminum construction and motion hardware; check the exact model
Frame
Steel and aluminum with anti-backlash lead screws
Seller-specific controller and firmware; verify before choosing control software
Controller
LongBoard (GRBL-based)
Mach3 or the supplied USB CNC software, where specified, Candle or UGS only for a verified GRBL controller
Software
gSender, UGS, CNCjs, Fusion 360, VCarve
Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 is no longer sold new. Sienci has moved on to the LongMill MK3 and no longer sells the 12x12 size. Closest current alternative: Sienci Labs LongMill MK3 30x30 (from $1,400) · Sienci Labs LongMill MK3 30x30 vs CNC 6040 Router

CNC 6040 Router wins 3 of 4 spec categories. Both are similarly priced. 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.

62
CNC 6040

Overall

62
Sienci LongMill
85 Value 58
62 Rigidity 52
58 Precision 60
35 Ease of use 88
60 Capability 48

CNC 6040 Router

Pros

  • Aluminum-frame versions are available; construction varies by model
  • VFD spindle packages are available for suitable wood and non-ferrous-metal work
  • Ball-screw versions are available; verify all axes in the chosen listing
  • Model-specific manuals and forum discussions can help with setup

Cons

  • Specifications and assembly quality need checking for the exact seller and unit
  • Warranty and technical support depend on the seller
  • Water-cooled versions need a suitable cooling circuit and maintenance
  • Check electrical condition and grounding before operation
  • Assembly quality requires inspection and adjustment out of the box

Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12

Pros

  • Excellent documentation and beginner-friendly setup from Sienci
  • Anti-backlash ACME lead screws on all axes
  • gSender is a polished, purpose-built CNC sender
  • Active community forums with responsive manufacturer support
  • Generous Z-axis travel of 114mm

Cons

  • Small 12x12 inch work area for a machine at this price
  • Router not included adds $100+ to total cost
  • Larger LongMill models offer better value per square inch
  • V-wheel motion system rather than linear rails
  • Lead screws are slower than ball screws

Verdict

CNC 6040 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CNC 6040 Router and Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12?

The CNC 6040 Router ($800) features a 800W spindle with a 600×400mm work area and a Seller-dependent aluminum construction and motion hardware; check the exact model frame. The Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 ($800) features a 710W spindle with a 305×305mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with anti-backlash lead screws frame. Overall, the CNC 6040 Router wins more comparison categories.

Which is better value for money — CNC 6040 Router or Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12?

Both machines are identically priced at $800. Our value scores rate the CNC 6040 Router higher at 85/100.

Which router is easier to set up and use?

Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Sienci LongMill MK2 12x12 scores higher (88/100 vs 35/100). Both support Mach3, UGS, CNCjs among other software options.

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