Our Pick: PrintNC
It scores 84/100 overall versus 55/100, winning 6 out of 9 comparison categories.
PrintNC wins 3 of 5 spec categories. Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit costs $675 less. PrintNC leads by 29 points overall — here’s where those points come from:
Benchmark Scores
Side-by-side score comparison across all five benchmark dimensions.
Overall
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
PrintNC
Pros
- Extremely rigid steel frame
- Cuts aluminum and steel with ease
- Fully open source — modify everything
- Active community and detailed build wiki
- Large work area for the price
Cons
- Full DIY build — expect 40-80 hours
- Needs welding or a local fab shop
- Sourcing parts from multiple vendors
- No customer support — community only
- Total cost depends heavily on component choices
Verdict
PrintNC wins this comparison with 6 categories to 3.
It scores 84/100 overall versus 55/100, winning 6 out of 9 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit
$525PrintNC
$1200As 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 Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit and PrintNC?
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. The PrintNC ($1200) features a 2200W spindle with a 630×835mm work area and a Steel tube (welded or bolted) frame. Overall, the PrintNC wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit or PrintNC?
The Maslow 4 CNC Router Kit is $675 cheaper at $525 vs $1200. 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 15/100). Both support Maslow 4 WebUI, WebControl, Makerverse among other software options.