Our Pick: Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3
It wins 9 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $10 less.
Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 wins 4 of 5 spec categories. Both are similarly priced. Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 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
Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3
Pros
- Affordable entry point from a reputable brand
- Large Sainsmart community and documentation
- Compatible with laser module upgrades
- Improved aluminum extrusion frame over older 3018 models
Cons
- Very small 300x180mm work area
- Weak spindle limited to soft materials
- Frame flexibility causes chatter on harder materials
- Limited upgrade path beyond laser modules
LZ 3020 CNC Router
Pros
- Ultra-low price makes it one of the cheapest CNC routers available
- Slightly wider Y-axis than standard 3018 machines at 200mm
- Standard GRBL compatibility works with common software
- Good for learning CNC fundamentals without major investment
Cons
- Very weak spindle struggles with anything harder than softwood
- Minimal documentation and virtually no brand community
- Build quality is inconsistent across units
- Small work area limits practical projects
- No-name brand means spare parts can be hard to find
Verdict
Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 wins this comparison with 9 categories to 1.
It wins 9 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $10 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3
$190LZ 3020 CNC Router
$200As 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 Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 and LZ 3020 CNC Router?
The Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 ($190) features a 120W spindle with a 300×180mm work area and a Aluminum extrusion frame. The LZ 3020 CNC Router ($200) features a 100W spindle with a 300×200mm work area and a Aluminum extrusion frame. Overall, the Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 or LZ 3020 CNC Router?
The Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 is $10 cheaper at $190 vs $200. Our value scores rate the Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 higher at 84/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Sainsmart Genmitsu 3018 MX3 scores higher (80/100 vs 65/100). Both support Candle, LightBurn, LaserGRBL among other software options.