What Category CNC is Right for You?

Until recently, there were only two categories of CNC routers to choose from, either ”entry-level” or “industrial”. However, over the past four to five years a new category of router has been gaining popularity, and we’ve coined this third type of machine the “commercial” category.

The new commercial CNC is the fastest growing category in the market because it is the perfect solution for a whole segment of producers that fall in between the requirements of an entry-level and an industrial machine configuration. To meet the burgeoning demand for commercial routers, machine manufacturers have configured a variety of options that are well suited for this broadening market segment in terms of cost, functionality, reliability, and speed.

To gain a better understanding of the three different categories of CNC routers available today, let’s begin with a general synopsis of the entry-level, commercial, and industrial-grade machining options.

Entry-Level

An entry-level machine is typically considered by smaller shops who currently do everything manually. While these businesses understand the value of investing in technology, they are still hesitant to make a large investment because they must commit completely to the new strategy. Machines in the entry-level category are intended to be operated 6-8 hours per day, have a product life span of approximately three years, and typically weigh between 2,000–5,000 lbs.

Commercial (New)

It is not uncommon for a commercial machine to be purchased by a first-time CNC buyer. These machines also meet the demands of both mid-size and large shops, as well as many of the applications of our largest producers. A machine that would be considered commercial will typically handle a work load of one to two shifts per day for a period of six to ten years. Commercial machines offer many of the features of an industrial machine but demand a lower cost consistent with their design. Most commercial machines will weigh somewhere between 6,000–10,000 lbs.

Industrial

An industrial machine is designed to handle demanding machining requirements with speed and accuracy, and it is for those who will be 100% dependent upon the machine (utilizing no manual methods). This category offers heavy, robust machining platforms that are designed to be operated two to three shifts per day, every day, for the life of the machine. A long life span, accompanied by reliability and serviceability are paramount to customers purchasing machines in this category. Industrial machines typically carry advanced features and weight well above 10,000 lbs.

Making the Decision

The key to determining the right machine for your business is working with your machinery vendor who has an understanding of what you do and how you do it. Provide them with as much information as you can about your expectations and allow yourself to be consulted. When there is trust in the relationship, they will recommend the machine that is right for you.

If you prefer a more open sales process, then use the three machine categories listed above, place yourself in one, and use it to evaluate what you are being offered. Put the effort into understanding the machine you are being proposed, where it is manufactured, what it weighs, how it is designed to be operated, how it will be serviced, and what features it employs.

 It is important to note that although many entry-level models can be loaded with various “bells and whistles”, they are still entry-level machines and will not produce as well as, or as long as, a commercial machine. Likewise, a commercial machine with a few less features may mistakenly appear on paper to be just an overpriced entry-level machine, while it is not.