Our Pick: Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
It scores 68/100 overall versus 44/100, winning 8 out of 10 comparison categories.
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins 4 of 5 spec categories. VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router costs $1,820 less. Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router leads by 24 points overall — here’s where those points come from:
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
VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router
Pros
- One of the cheapest CNC routers available
- Easy to assemble with clear instructions
- Offline controller included for standalone operation
- Compatible with standard GRBL software ecosystem
Cons
- Very small work area limits project size
- Weak spindle cannot handle hardwoods or metals
- Significant frame flex under load
- Quality control is inconsistent
Verdict
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router wins this comparison with 8 categories to 2.
It scores 68/100 overall versus 44/100, winning 8 out of 10 comparison categories.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Next Wave Shark HD500 CNC Router
$2000VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router
$180As 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 VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router?
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 VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router ($180) features a 120W spindle with a 300×180mm work area and a Aluminum extrusion 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 VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router?
The VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router is $1820 cheaper at $180 vs $2000. Our value scores rate the VEVOR 3018 Pro CNC Router higher at 82/100.
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 75/100). Both support VCarve Desktop (included), Fusion 360, Aspire among other software options.