Our Pick: Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
It wins 6 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $200 less.
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins 4 of 5 spec categories. Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router costs $200 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
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
Pros
- VCarve Desktop software included ($350 value)
- Router included for true out-of-box operation
- Precision-ground steel rails provide smooth motion
- Long 914mm Y-axis is great for guitar necks and long workpieces
- US-based company with phone support
Cons
- Proprietary controller limits third-party software options
- Narrow 406mm X-axis limits project width
- Premium price for the work area compared to Onefinity or Shapeoko
- Smaller community than competitors
- Upgrade path to larger machines requires a new purchase
Stepcraft D.600 CNC System
Pros
- German-engineered precision with tight tolerances
- Modular tool system -- CNC, laser, drag knife, vinyl cutter, 3D printing
- Generous Z-axis travel of 140mm
- Compact design with excellent build quality
- Multiple spindle options from 500W to 1kW
Cons
- Expensive for the work area, especially with spindle add-ons
- Modular tools add up in cost quickly
- Smaller community than American brands
- Software options are less beginner-friendly than Carbide Create or Easel
Verdict
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins this comparison with 6 categories to 4.
It wins 6 out of 10 comparison categories while costing $200 less.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
$2000Stepcraft D.600 CNC System
$2200As 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 Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router and Stepcraft D.600 CNC System?
The Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router ($2000) features a 710W spindle with a 406×914mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-ground rails frame. The Stepcraft D.600 CNC System ($2200) features a 500W spindle with a 600×420mm work area and a Aluminum with precision-machined components frame. Overall, the Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router or Stepcraft D.600 CNC System?
The Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router is $200 cheaper at $2000 vs $2200. Our value scores rate the Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router higher at 58/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router scores higher (88/100 vs 60/100). Both support VCarve Desktop (included), Fusion 360, Aspire among other software options.