Our Pick: MakerMade M2 CNC Router
It scores 55/100 overall versus 52/100, winning 5 out of 7 comparison categories.
Specs are evenly split between both machines. Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven) costs $759 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
Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven)
Pros
- Cuts full 4x8 foot sheets of plywood
- Extremely low cost for the work area size
- Open-source hardware and firmware with an established support forum
- Upright sheet support uses less floor depth than a horizontal 4x8 bed
- Great for furniture and large panel projects
Cons
- Very slow cutting speed
- Accuracy decreases at edges and corners of the work area
- Cutting depth depends on the router, bit, sled and Z-axis conversion
- Requires a rigid frame, sled setup and calibration
- Not suitable for precision work or small details
Verdict
MakerMade M2 CNC Router wins this comparison with 5 categories to 2.
It scores 55/100 overall versus 52/100, winning 5 out of 7 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
MakerMade M2 CNC Router
$1198Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven)
$439As 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 Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven)?
The MakerMade M2 CNC Router ($1,198) features a 900W spindle with a 1220×2440mm work area and a Hanging sled on vertical frame (frame built from plywood). Overall, the MakerMade M2 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — MakerMade M2 CNC Router or Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven)?
The Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven) is $759 cheaper at $439 vs $1,198. Our value scores rate the Original Maslow CNC Router Kit (chain-driven) higher at 95/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the MakerMade M2 CNC Router scores higher (42/100 vs 35/100). Both support MakerMade Ground Control, WebControl, Maslow Ground Control among other software options.
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