Which CNC machine

is right for you?

Choosing the right CNC machine can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to CNC, upgrading from an older machine, or unsure which specification best suits your work.

This quick guide will help you narrow down the right type of machine based on materials, size, usage and workflow, and point you towards the most suitable options in our range.

Question 1

What material are you cutting?

A) Wood, MDF, plastics & composites

You’ll need a CNC router. These machines are designed for high-speed routing, nesting, engraving and profiling.

Typical users:

Joinery, furniture, signage, education, prototyping, composites.

→ Continue to Question 2.

B) Metal engraving & marking

You’ll need a fiber laser marker.

Typical users:
Serial numbers, ID plates, barcodes, medical tools, automotive parts.

Recommended machine:

→ LM-30W Fiber Laser Marker

B) Steel, stainless, titanium & aluminium cutting

You’ll need a:

→ Fiber laser cutter

(If you don’t see a suitable laser cutter listed, contact us — we can advise on current availability and alternatives.)

Question 2

What size material do you usually work with?

A) Small parts (up to 600 × 900mm)

Compact machines with a smaller footprint are ideal.

Best suited to:

  • Education
  • Small workshops
  • Precision parts

Recommended machines:

→ T690S Enclosed CNC Router

B) 4ft × 4ft sheets

A popular size for signage, panels and enclosed environments.

Best suited to:

  • Education
  • Clean or noise-sensitive environments
  • Restricted access workshops

Recommended machines:

→ 1313M Enclosed CNC Router

→ 1313A Enclosed CNC Router(with automatic tool change)

C) 8ft × 4ft sheets (or larger)

Ideal for furniture production, cabinetry and nested sheet work.

Recommended machines:

→ A1S CNC Router (entry level)

→ M5S CNC Router (mid-range performance)

→ M1S CNC Router (production level)

Question 3

How often will the machine be used?

A) Occasional use / education

You’ll want a robust, simple machine that’s easy to use and maintain.

Recommended machines:

→ T690S

→ 1313M

→ A1S

B) Daily workshop use

You’ll benefit from servo drives, higher rigidity and faster motion.

Recommended machines:

→ M5S

→ A1A

→ 1313A

C) Full production / manufacturing

High-speed motion, rigidity and automation become essential.

Recommended machines:

→ M1S

→ M1A

→ M5A

Question 4

What matters most to you?

A) Best value for money

I want the most capability for the lowest investment.

Recommended machines:

→ T690S

→ 1313M

→ A1S

B) Balanced performance & cost

I want better speed, accuracy and longevity without jumping to full production pricing.

Recommended machines:

→ M5S

→ A1A

→ 1313A

C) Maximum performance & productivity

I need speed, rigidity and automation for production work.

Recommended machines:

→ M1S

→ M1A

→ M5A

Question 5

Do you need automatic tool changing (ATC)?

A) Yes, I want faster workflows

Automatic tool change machines improve productivity and reduce setup time.

Recommended machines:

→ A1A

→ M5A

→ M1A

→ 1313A

B) No, manual tool changes are fine

Manual machines offer excellent value and simplicity.

Recommended machines:

→ A1S

→ M5S

→ 1313M

→ T690S

Still not sure?

Every workshop is different and sometimes the best machine depends on future plans, not just current work.

If you’re unsure, our team is happy to offer honest, practical advice based on:

  • materials
  • production volume
  • space constraints
  • budget

Contact us to speak to a CNC specialist

Contact us

Which CNC machine is right for you?