Our Pick: Inventables X-Carve Pro
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories across specs and benchmark scores.
Specs are evenly split between both machines. Both are similarly priced. Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router leads by 4 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 HD520 CNC Router
Pros
- Large 711x1600mm work area handles big woodworking projects
- VCarve Desktop and router included -- truly turnkey
- Steel frame maintains good rigidity even at this size
- US-based company with phone support
- Precision-ground rails for smooth, accurate motion
Cons
- At $3000, the proprietary controller is a significant limitation
- Large footprint requires dedicated shop space
- Heavy at 52kg -- needs a sturdy work surface
- Smaller user community than competing platforms
- 710W trim router may be underpowered for aggressive cuts at this machine size
Inventables X-Carve Pro
Pros
- Spindle included for true out-of-box cutting
- Easel Pro software is extremely beginner-friendly
- Steel frame with linear rails is a massive upgrade over the original X-Carve
- Well-established brand with large community
- Good customer support and extensive tutorials
Cons
- Easel Pro requires an ongoing subscription for advanced features
- Expensive for a 24x24 inch work area
- Proprietary controller limits flexibility
- No larger size option in the Pro lineup
- Faces stiff competition from Onefinity and Shapeoko at this price
Verdict
Inventables X-Carve Pro wins this comparison with 5 categories to 4.
It wins 5 out of 9 comparison categories across specs and benchmark scores.
Where to Buy
Price-first merchant links with the clearest reason to click first.
Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router
$3000Inventables X-Carve Pro
$3000As 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 HD520 CNC Router and Inventables X-Carve Pro?
The Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router ($3000) features a 710W spindle with a 711×1600mm work area and a Steel and aluminum with precision-ground rails frame. The Inventables X-Carve Pro ($3000) features a 930W spindle with a 610×610mm work area and a Steel frame with linear rails frame. Overall, the Inventables X-Carve Pro wins more comparison categories.
Which is better value for money — Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router or Inventables X-Carve Pro?
Both machines are identically priced at $3000. Our value scores rate the Next Wave Shark HD520 CNC Router higher at 50/100.
Which router is easier to set up and use?
Based on our ease-of-use benchmarks, the Inventables X-Carve Pro scores higher (92/100 vs 88/100). Both support VCarve Desktop (included), Fusion 360, Aspire among other software options.