Our Pick: Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit
It wins 3 out of 5 comparison categories while costing $673 less.
Specs are evenly split between both machines. Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit costs $673 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
MakerMade M2 CNC Router
Pros
- Full 4x8 foot cutting area for sheet goods
- Improved chain tensioning over original Maslow design
- MakerMade provides commercial support and warranty
- Excellent for cutting cabinet parts and furniture pieces
- Vertical storage takes minimal floor space
Cons
- Very slow cutting speed compared to conventional CNC routers
- Accuracy degrades significantly at the edges and corners
- Limited Z-axis depth restricts to thin materials
- Requires building a large vertical frame
- Software can be finicky and requires patience to calibrate
Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit
Pros
- Full 4x8 foot cutting area at an incredible price
- New flat design eliminates the need for a vertical frame
- Much easier calibration than the original Maslow chain system
- ESP32 controller enables WiFi-based operation
- Open-source community with active development
Cons
- Still slow cutting speed compared to conventional CNC routers
- Limited Z-axis depth restricts to thin sheet materials
- New design means less community experience and documentation
- Accuracy still degrades at the edges of the work area
- Requires flat, stable surface for the entire 4x8 sheet
Verdict
Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit wins this comparison with 3 categories to 2.
It wins 3 out of 5 comparison categories while costing $673 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
MakerMade M2 CNC Router
$1198Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit
$525As 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 MakerMade M2 CNC Router and Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit?
The MakerMade M2 CNC Router ($1198) features a 900W spindle with a 1220×2440mm work area and a Hanging sled on vertical frame (frame built from plywood) frame. The Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit ($525) features a 900W spindle with a 1220×2440mm work area and a Flat sled system on spoilboard (no vertical frame needed) frame. Overall, the Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — MakerMade M2 CNC Router or Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit?
The Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit is $673 cheaper at $525 vs $1198. Our value scores rate the Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit higher at 95/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit scores higher (45/100 vs 42/100). Both support MakerMade Ground Control, WebControl, Maslow 4 WebUI among other software options.