Confused as to what exactly a CNC router is? Deep dive into the terminology, technology, and much more to quickly become an expert on the newest technology emerging in the woodworking realm!

Read More: What is a CNC Router?

Why Do I Need a CNC Table?

Most CNC machines on the market today, especially those marketed to Hobbyists or Woodworkers, do not come with legs or a base to stand on their own. So unless you’re planning to put your new expensive machine on the floor, you will need to get yourself a table!

Machines like the Shapeoko Pro, Inventables X-Carve, and Onefinity rely upon you providing the surface to mount them in your workshop or maker space. Given the large sizes of these machines, you may find yourself needing to buy or build a table large enough to fit your CNC!

How Do I Build a CNC Table?

Building a table for your CNC machine can be as complex or easy as you wish to make it. Some use construction lumber frames with basic plywood tops. Others build elaborate enclosures from extruded aluminum. Are you looking for a table that is easy to build, attractive, stable, strong, and affordable? These were qualities I had in mind while designing my own CNC table using only two sheets of 4′ x 8′ plywood!

Before you begin building, think about your workshop, the CNC machine itself, and any special needs you may have. Ask yourself the following questions.

• What is the footprint size of your CNC?

• Do you need room for accessories?

• Where will your CNC’s computer live?

• Are there any features you want your table to incorporate such as lumber storage or expansion panels for electrical or safety switches?

• Do you need your table to be mobile and on wheels?

• Do you need your table to fold up when not in use?

These are just a few of the many questions you should be asking to get a better understanding of exactly what you need. Knowing your needs will help guide you in building a table that serves you best in your own unique workshop or maker space.

My Shapeoko Pro CNC Table

I purchased a Shapeoko Pro CNC from Carbide 3D and needed a table for it. I wanted a rock-solid foundation for my machine to sit on. My table had to be dead flat, stable, and not sag over time from the weight of the machine (175 lbs. in my case).

The Shapeoko Pro is one of the larger Woodworking / Hobbyist CNC Routers on the market today. This meant I was going to be in for a larger table than others have made. I decided to make my table 60″ wide and 48″ deep to accommodate the Shapeoko Pro. This would give me about 6″ clearance on all sides from the machine to the table edge.

I wanted a table that was mobile, so put it on top of a set of six heavy-duty locking caster wheels. The large casters allow the table to glide smoothly across my workshop floor when needed, while their locking feature keep the table parked securely when it’s time to work.

I have a small workshop (16′ x 16′) and making room for this CNC table was a big task! To maximize the space and uses, I incorporated material storage into the table and also gave room for my shop vac dust collection to live under the table top, too.

CNC Table Plans

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I plan to add an emergency stop switch to my CNC table in the near future as well as other switches to control dust collection, lighting, the router, and more. Knowing this ahead of time, I was able to design my CNC table with a special removable panel that I can mount all the electrical hardware onto for a nice clean look.

The last need for my CNC table was for it to be affordable! I was able to come up with an efficient design that used only two sheets of plywood for the whole build! This made the cost of the project at $100 USD — a great deal!

Building My Shapeoko Pro CNC Table

Where Can I Buy a CNC Table?

Not looking to go the DIY route on your table? Is your free time limited and you’d rather buy a table? Here are some considerations to think about when picking a commercial option for your CNC.

• How large is your machine?

• How heavy is your machine?

• What is your budget?

• Will you be adding an enclosure to it?

A recent poll of a CNC Woodworking group I am a member of showed these as the top tables people buy for their CNC Router machines.

Kreg Universal Bench System

With the Kreg Universal Bench, you can easily create a table to the right size to fit your CNC machine needs.

You will have to supply your own top and shelf (if desired).

Rockler Customizable Shop Stand

The Rockler Shop Stand is very similar to the Kreg system, but a bit more affordable. Rockler offers many size options to get the exact size you need for your CNC router.

You will have to supply your own top and shelf (if desired).

2×4 Basics Workbench Legs

Made of durable high-strength plastic, this is a leg kit to get you started on a semi-DIY solution for your CNC table setup. 

You will have to supply your own lumber for the framing, top, and shelf (if desired). However, you will not have to make any special joinery cuts with this system!

Samcraft Project Plans

What is a Shapeoko CNC Router?

Shapeoko is the product line or model name of a wood CNC router from Carbide 3D, a company based in Torrance, California, USA.

Shapeoko CNC Routers are marketed to woodworkers and makers ranging from the DIY hobbyist to the small business owner looking to incorporate automation to streamline their production workflows and beyond.

Confused as to what exactly a CNC router is? Deep dive into the terminology, technology, and much more to quickly become an expert on the newest technology emerging in the woodworking realm!

Read More: What is a CNC Router?

How Many Shapeoko Models Are There?

Currently there are four sizes or models of the Shapeoko CNC Router available from Carbide 3D. The Shapeoko 3 Standard, Shapeoko XL, Shapeoko XXL, and the new Shapeoko Pro. The Standard, XL, and XXL models are very similar to each other whereas the Shapeoko Pro is in a league of its own with many upgrades and improvements.

Shapeoko XXL Key Specs

While we’ll discuss the differences between the Shapeoko XXL and Shapeoko Pro in this article, here are some main specs of the Shapeoko XXL that you should know.

Shapeoko Pro Key Specs

The Shapeoko Pro is the newest model from Carbide 3D. Take a deep dive into the new Shapeoko Pro in this article, but for now these are the key specs of the Shapeoko Pro that you must know!

Shapeoko XXL vs. Shapeoko Pro

No doubt, this is what you’re here for. You’re wondering how the Shapeoko XXL stacks up against the new Shapeoko Pro and how much of an upgrade it really is. Here are the main comparisons between the two machines.

What is your CNC Sitting on?

Are you happy with your current CNC table? Do you have one?
Check out this custom CNC table I built for my Shapeoko Pro for only $100!

CNC Table Plans

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Additional Features of the Shapeoko Pro

Carbide 3D didn’t just upgrade a few things to create the new Shapeoko Pro, they completely redesigned the machine! Some noteworthy upgrades over the Shapeoko XXL are:

• Linear bearings and guide rails for all motion — no more V-Wheels

• Wider and stronger 15mm GT2 timing belts

• Built-in Bitsetter for quick tool change

• Integrated hybrid t-slot table made from aluminum extrusions and MDF strips

• Fully supported Y-axis extrusion tubes

• New Carbide Motion 3.0 electronics

• Precision machined motion plates

• Improved cable management and dedicated router/spindle drag chain

• Streamlined assembly process to get you running quicker

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you upgrade a Shapeoko XXL to a Shapeoko Pro?

Currently, there is no upgrade kit to convert your Shapeoko XXL into a Shapeoko Pro. There are many differences in the two machines which would be very complex and time-consuming to convert the XXL over to. The Pro is more than just new guides and table. It is a complete redesign of the Shapeoko machine.

When will the Shapeoko Pro arrive?

Carbide 3D launched the Shapeoko Pro for purchase on October 15, 2020 at 10:00am PT. The turnaround time from ordering to shipment is estimated at 30 days. For current shipment lead times (if any) check out the Shapeoko Pro on Carbide 3D’s website.

Where are Shapeoko CNC Routers made?

Carbide 3D, the maker of Shapeoko CNCs, is a USA-based company operating out of Torrance, California. All of their products, including the Shapeoko machine line are made in the USA. Learn about about Carbide 3D.

What kind of warranty comes with a Shapeoko?

Shapeokos come with a 30-day User Error Warranty as well as a 12 month Defect Warranty. Read all the Shapeoko Warranty legalese.

How is Customer Support for a Shapeoko?

Customer support from Carbide 3D is one of the top rated in the CNC router field. A quick google search or facebook query about getting customer support from Carbide 3D and you will quickly find they are quick to respond and work very hard to help the customer. Carbide 3D’s customer support is US-based.

How large is the Shapeoko online community?

The original Shapeoko was released almost 10 years ago, and the original iteration of the 3rd model over 5 years ago. With such a long history of one product line, the community adoption and support is extremely large. There are many online forums and facebook groups dedicated to the Shapeoko CNCs. Carbide 3D has its own community forum full of information, monthly contests, and much more!

Should You Buy the Shapeoko Pro? I did!

The Shapeoko Pro was my personal choice for a CNC Router after much research and comparing the top models of 2020. The benefits, features, pricing, and support from Carbide 3D all received rave reviews. I am excited to use it in my small workshop and to grow my small woodworking business!

Sam
Samcraft & Green Acre Homestead LLC

Telling someone whether or not they should invest their own money into something is not straight-forward.

You need to determine if the cost vs. benefit is in the right place depending on your needs, goals, and other personal factors.

It is clear to see the Shapeoko Pro is better built than the Shapeoko XXL, however the XXL has a long standing history of reliability and a large customer support base online.

Either way, regardless of which machine you choose, you will be in good hands with a Shapeoko CNC Router from Carbide 3D.

What Does CNC Stand For?

The letters CNC are an acronym for the term Computer Numerical Control. In short, this means the automated control of a device by a computer. The device or tool being controlled by the computer can be a variety of things such as drills, routers, cutters, 3D printers, and even simple objects such as pens for artwork!

How Do CNC Machines Work?

CNC machines work by receiving instructions from a computer, via controller software, for specific actions to take and then performing them. These actions are usually directional movements along mathematical axes X (left & right), Y (forward & back), Z (up & down). There are other axes of control with special CNC machines, but these are rarely used in the woodworking world.

What is a CNC Router?

A CNC Router is commonly a three-axis (X, Y, Z) CNC machine coupled with a wood trim router or spindle motor with a cutting bit inserted to remove material. For woodworking, a CNC router is used to cut or carve away wood from a piece of stock to reveal the final project. This form of manufacturing is known as subtractive machining because material is taken away to produce the item.

What Can You Make With A CNC Router?

The range of what can be made from a CNC is a wide as you can dream up! From wood signs, custom metal parts, and 3D carvings of objects, the sky is the limit with a CNC! CNC routers machines are used to cut, engrave, and mill a wide variety of materials. They easily handle all plastics, wood and most soft metals. 

What Are Some Popular Woodworking CNC Machines?

Woodworking CNC machines have grown exponentially in the last few years as the market explodes with interest and new technologies. There are many companies offering CNC routers marketed towards DIYers, Hobbyists, Woodworkers, and Makers. Two companies dominate the US market in 2020 and are the top of the list for most customers:  Carbide 3D’s Shapeoko and Inventables’ X-Carve.

Top CNC Routers in 2020 for Woodworkers

Carbide 3D

Shapeoko 3 & Shapeoko Pro

Based in the USA, Carbide 3D offers the best bang for your buck and has a great community backing as well as outstanding customer support.

http://carbide3d.com

Inventables

X-Carve & X-Carve Pro

Based in the USA, Inventables has been a long standing name associated with woodworkers and makers and CNC router machines. They have a large presence on YouTube via partnerships and offer great CNC machines at a variety of price points.

http://inventables.com