CNC 3018 Pro Engraving Machine, Semi-Assemble Mini 3 Axis CNC Router Machine GRBL Control Wood Plastic PCB Milling Machine

I bought this as it seemed like one of the lowest cost ways of being able to try my hand at using a CNC machine and I have to say that, based on the first three weeks, I'm very impressed. I've been able to get some excellent results very quickly. I've used it to carve resin-filled logos into synth stands and to carve lyrics into a guitar stand. The machine itself is straightforward to put together and worked from the off. Being Mac-based was a bit of an issue, but I signed up for a free account at Easel and was able to start carving on day one. Like anything, there's a learning curve, but nothing so complex as to be off-putting.What has impressed me as much has been the customer service. They have responded to a number of queries I had about the machine and how best to make use of it.I'm sure there are higher end machines that offer different features and larger working areas, but for the type of thing I want to do, this is perfect. Very pleased indeed.

As I was putting the device together, I got covered in metal shards from the machining of the bars. It was so bad that I had to spend 20 minutes with tweezers to get them all out. Secondly, the device made a horrible grinding noise and didn't work. Instructions were non existent. Returned promptly.

Following discussion with the seller I decided to have another try at this kit (my original review is below).This time the box was in good nick and contained everything that was required to build the item. I have tried a few sample cuts and it seems to be working. Note: if you find that sample prints come out oddly mirrored/flipped, it's because the x is plugged into the y and vice versa - ask me how I know...Original review was 1-star:Box arrived badly damaged. Unfortunately on opening the box I found that a large, vital part was missing. We went through the countents and discovered that several other vital parts were missing, including two stepper motors and one other structural component, so ultimately we decided that the best thing to do would simply be to return the box for refund.For what it's worth, we're not averse to a bit of DIY. I've previously bought a 3d printer from Amazon that required a similar level of setup, and we were able to assemble it successfully with no problems. I'd hoped that this was going to be a similar experience. If it had just been one or two minor components I'd have seen the point of persisting/waiting for additional parts to be sent. It's easy to see how QA processes can fail to note a single missing screw, or whatever. However, it's hard to see how any QA process can fail to note that so many reasonably large components were simply missing. It's made me wonder what other significant QA omissions might have occurred. Very disappointed - and, honestly, sad this didn't work out.

Like most, I was looking for a way into CNC machining without huge setup costs, and man am I impressed with this machine.The machine arrives fully in parts, and for someone who enjoys and is able to build a machine like this, I would say it takes around 2 hours to build the machine properly, everything nice and square, level, and cable managed. Not bad going!My primary use for this machine is milling and engraving carbon fibre, of which this machine does really really well. For anything looking to do the same, I would suggest a feed rate of 200mm/min, 9000rpm (stock spindle), plunge rate of 65, and a pass depth of 0.2 or 0.3mm.Recommended upgrades for hard materials such as carbon fibre;-20k RPM spindle-10-15a Power supply unit for spindle (I run this completely separately from the control board, and have installed custom variable speed controls on the side.-Tungsten carbide end mills (the blue ones!)Recommended upgrades for any type of use;-Sound/vibration isolating pads for under the frame-3m Magnetic tape for left and right side of frame, this is useful to attach spanners for changing bits in the spindle.-On assembly, I high recommend using blue threadlock. Due to the vibrations the machine creates, this will ensure the screws do not work loose over time.-Personally I much prefer using G-Code Sender UGS Platform. Its more intuitive in my opinion.More than happy to answer any questions to help people get started.Happy buying! You wont be disappointed!

CNC well made and packing. Easy to assemble, however, no wiring setup instructions, spent five hours on the internet looking at YouTube for help and advice. Found out that the motherboard was faulty. Biggest problem I had was contacting the seller for technical help seems they only sell the CNC. Very frustrating.Really needed someone with technical knowledge and a phone number to call.A replacement motherboard was offered by the company but would have to wait another seven days. Now looking in the UK for a replacement with technical backup if needed.

Arrived quickly and all bits present. Found it fairly easy to build and instructions clear. Some say 20mins to build but I would say allow a bit longer and I come from an engineering background. Used manual controller to carry out a test and unit developed a slight problem. Tried several fixes but no luck. Contacted suppliers and can only say they where fantastic. It seemed to be board fault and with out a problem new board arrived a couple of days later. Quickly fitted same and all seems good now.Would highly recommend this supplier and there back up on product. A+++ from me for homid.

It’s not working properly it’s not cutting into the wood load of rubbish

Was sceptical about this having read many mixed reviews about CNC machines. But as a hobbyist I really wanted to give it a go.So glad I took the plunge. Assembly was not too difficult and largely self explanatory when comparing to a picture of one already built. But from first test carve and first custom carve the results are great.It is everything I hoped it would be and as took wood working to the next level for me.