Carbide 3D has two desktop CNC machines, the Nomad and the Shapeoko HDM.
The Nomad is a fully enclosed, ready-to-run CNC machine that can be used in almost any environment.
The Shapeoko HDM is a larger, more powerful machine that is designed to be used in a workshop environment. It's powered by a water-cooled spindle and features a heavy-duty frame and linear rails for increased rigidity and precision.
What to look for in a desktop CNC machine?
Size of the machine
We design our Desktop CNC machine to fit on a standard 24" deep workbench. That means you don't need any special tables or enclosures to get started.
Size of the cutting area
The size of the cutting area is maybe the #1 characteristic of a CNC machine. The Nomad has a smaller cutting area that's more similar to a 3D printer. The Shapeoko HDM uses a moving gantry design that gives you a relatively large cutting area for the size of the machine.
Dust control
Desktop CNC machines are often used in an office environment, so it's important to consider dust control and dust collections. The Nomad and Shapeoko HDM take different approaches to dust control. The Nomad is fully enclosed, so it's easy to connect a vacuum to the dust shoe and keep the dust contained. The Shapeoko HDM is an open machine, that includes our Sweepy dust boot to keep dust from ending up everywhere. You just need to provide a shop vacuum to keep the dust from spreading throughout your workshop.
Spindle
The spindle of a CNC machine defines the power and speed of the machine. The Nomad uses a custom-made spindle that's small and quiet. The Shapeoko HDM uses a water-cooled spindle, which is a more powerful spindle that's better suited for cutting aluminum and other metals.
Why Buy from Carbide 3D?
Carbide 3D was founded by engineers and manufacturing people to make the CNC machines that we wanted. We've spent over 10 years making CNC machines that are easy to use, and easy to learn. We're here to help you get the most out of your CNC machine.
What we Offer
Warranties and Support - All of our machines come with at least a 1-year warranty. We have a US-based support team available to help you get started quickly and to help you get the most out of your CNC machine. Details here.
60-Days, Mistakes are on Us - For the first 60 days that you own your Carbide 3D machine, we'll cover any damage to your machine, or anything Carbide 3D-branded- even if it's your fault. We want you to get up and running without fear. Details here.
Training - Our machines come with four 1-on-1 training sessions with a member of our support team. Details can be found here.
Software - We include all of the software you need to get started at no additional cost.
Complete Machines - Our machines are the best value in CNC because they don't require big additional purchases to get started.