Pressed for time? Check our best picks
Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO
- Sturdy
- Easy to assemble
- Versatile
BobsCNC Evolution 3
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy build
- Complete kit
VEVOR CNC 1610
- Easy to assemble
- Versatile
- Accurate cutting
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Most people think that CNC routers are used mainly for cutting wood and plastic.
Although this is true, these versatile machines can do a lot more than that.
For instance, did you know you can engrave or cut flimsy aluminum sheets with a CNC router?
If this sounds like something that would interest you, then you should take a look at what we feel is the best CNC router for aluminum out of 15 models we analyzed.
Best CNC Router for Aluminum – Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router
The best CNC router for aluminum out of the 15 models we researched in detail is the Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router.
This is also the most beginner-friendly model on our list that supports offline controller support.
Here’s what the 3018-PRO Router’s key specifications are at a glance—
- 1/8-inch Bit
- 11.8 x 7 x 1.8-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- SainSmart Offline Controller
The Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router is a great tool for beginners, including anyone who is starting to learn CNC.
It can cut different materials from plastic, soft aluminum, woods, and acrylics.
It has an integrated mainboard and custom Grbl software which allows seamless hardware and software connection.
This unit has a really secure power adapter, with over-voltage protection and short-circuit protection.
The 3018-PRO also comes with an offline controller which helps users to adjust the X, Y, and Z-axis without having to use a computer.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Easy to assemble
- Versatile
- Good engraving results
Cons
- Could come with threadlocker
Even though it does not come with a threadlocker, this unit is easy to assemble and use, especially for beginners. Its versatility also makes it a good investment.
Top CNC Router for Aluminum in the Market Compared
| Product Image | Product Name | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall - Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Premium - BobsCNC Evolution 3 |
| Check Today's Price |
| Best Budget - VEVOR CNC 1610 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Yofuly 3018 Pro |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Best Multi-Purpose - SainSmart Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO |
| Check Today's Price |
 | MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018-PRO |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Yofuly Upgraded CNC 3018 Pro GRBL |
| Check Today's Price |
 | FoxAlien Desktop CNC |
| Check Today's Price |
 | VEVOR CNC Router Engraver Kit 3020 |
| Check Today's Price |
 | Best for Wide-Range Area Work - |
| Check Today's Price |
Reviews of Best CNC Router for Aluminum
Best Premium - BobsCNC Evolution 3
Key Specifications
- ¼ and 1/8-inch Bits
- 16 x 18 x 3.3-inch Engraving Surface
- 30,000 RPM
- Comes with Makita RT0701C
The BobsCNC Evolution 3 CNC Router Kit has a 16x 18-inch cutting area and 3.3 inches of Z travel. This unit comes with a rigid laser cut frame.
Its rail system is supported by SG20U with a GT2 belt drive on its X and Y axis, and ACME TR8 on its Z axis.
With a wattage of 600 W and a voltage of 115 V, this router kit can be used with multiple materials.
It also comes with a Makita RT0701C router and Arduino-based Grbl microprocessor.
Take a look at this video to learn about BobCNC’s Evolution series:
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy build
- Complete kit
- Hose and cord stores easily
Cons
- Gantry could flex less
The product is a great choice for beginners and comes with complete router, motors, electronics, and controller software. It also performs adequately for multiple materials.
Best Budget - VEVOR CNC 1610
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bit
- 6.3 x 3.9 x 1.6-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- Brushless Stepper Motors
The VEVOR CNC 3018 is a self-learning tool that is great for beginners. It comes with a spindle speed of 10000 rpm/min and 6.3 x 3.9 x 1.6 inches of effective working travel.
It comes with T8 stainless steel screws. The small working area might be a put-off for some, but for its price, you can’t ask for much more.
This unit is equipped with 3 42-stepper motors that aids movement easily. It is versatile to be used with plastics, soft aluminum, woods, acrylics, or other soft materials.
The router kit comes with a spindle, cable, two gravers, and table lamp to aid visibility.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Versatile
- Accurate cutting
- Less noise
Cons
- Guide rods could be thicker
This tool is really sturdy and performs cutting with great accuracy. It is a great investment for beginners, and works well with different materials.
Yofuly 3018 Pro
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- Offline Controller
The Yofuly 3018 Pro CNC Router allows engraving, cutting, and drilling. This machine comes with a compact frame that offers about 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8 inches of engraving surface.
Its stepper motor is equipped with 775 spindle that works at 0-10000 rpm, and comes with a Grbl software controller.
Alternatively, it also has an offline manual controller which can be connected via a USB cable.
With quite a range of speed, this tool can engrave wood, bamboo, plastic, and soft aluminum. It can also cut through thin wood, bamboo, plastic, and other materials.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to operate
- Accurate cutting
- Seamless software integration
Cons
- Could vibrate less
This unit is really helpful in cutting and engraving different types of materials. It also provides easy software integration without hassle.
Best Multi-Purpose - SainSmart Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- Offline Controller
The MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018-PRO is a CNC router great for beginners. It has an offline controller with 1G capacity that can be used without connecting to a computer.
It also comes with an integrated driver chip and sturdy casing for more durability.
This unit is really secure thanks to its short circuit protection.
With a 775 spindle motor that runs at 10000 rpm, this unit is versatile enough to be used with different materials from plastics to soft aluminum to woods and acrylics.
It is also secured with 4 clamps that can hold thicknesses up to 30mm.
Pros
- Versatile
- Sturdy build
- Extra short circuit protection
- Easy to assemble
Cons
- Needs upgraded tools
This unit is a great choice for beginners because it is easy to assemble and can be used with different materials.
MYSWEETY DIY CNC 3018-PRO
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 15.7 x 13 x 1.8-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- Heat Sink and Fan
The Yofuly Upgraded CNC 3018 Pro GRBL Control Engraving Machine is an upgraded version of the previous model.
It allows 2D and 3D sculpture and has drill bits with 0.1 mm tip, 20 degrees, and 1/8-inch diameter.
This updated version now comes with a manual control option for the X, Y, and Z axes. It also allows document engraving by linking the offline board to the GRBL control board without using a computer.
It can be used to engrave many different materials from aluminum to acrylic to wood to most plastics.
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable material
- Easy to use
- Accurate performance
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
This upgraded version of the CNC 3018 model is great to use with different types of materials.
The engraving process is also easier thanks to the manual control option and document engraving feature.
Yofuly Upgraded CNC 3018 Pro GRBL
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 11 x 6.2 x 1.3-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- External Stop Button
The FoxAlien Desktop CNC Router Machine 3018-SE V2 is desktop router with 11 x 6.18 x 1.3 inches of working area.
It has a 775 spindle that runs at 10000 rpm and requires 12 V of power supply.
This unit comes with a protective case for a safer working process as dust is less likely to scatter.
It can be used for different DIY projects such as engraving and sculpting. It is also compatible with all GRBL software.
Pros
- Extra secure with safety protection
- Easy to assemble
- Versatile
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Need to buy extra components
Even though its 300W spindle and power module are not included, this unit is perfect for DIY craft projects with wide range of material types.
FoxAlien Desktop CNC
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 11.8 x 7.9 x 2-inch Engraving Surface
- 8,000 RPM
- 4 Rotary Axis
The VEVOR CNC Router Engraver Kit 3020 is a CNC router with an effective working area of 11.8 x 7.9.
It runs at 500W of power and works for material thicknesses of up to 2 inches without sputtering or stopping.
This tool is built with an aluminum backing plate for better durability. Its flexible coupling allows high torque delivery and its spindle motor knob enables adjustment to help with precise engraving.
It works well with many materials from plastics to wood to acrylics.
Pros
- Durable and sturdy
- Precise performance
- High torque
- Versatile
Cons
- Could come with MAC support
With a durable material and precise performance, this unit is great for engraving a wide range of materials. It can be operated easily even for the most intricate and detailed engravings.
VEVOR CNC Router Engraver Kit 3020
If you want to get the most versatility out of your CNC router, then the SainSmart Genmitsu CNC Router Machine 3018-PROVer is for you.
Here’s what this router has in store for us—
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.8-inch Engraving Surface
- 10,000 RPM
- 1.8-inch TFT Display
The SainSmart Genmitsu CNC Router Machine 3018-PROVeris a pre-assembled router with an open-source Grbl.
It has an all-aluminum body as well as acrylic safety baffles as a safety barrier to block flying pieces of cut materials so that cutting and engraving can be done safely.
This unit has an effective engraving area of 11.8 by 7.1 by 1.4 inches. Its spindle has a 775 motor that runs at 10000 rpm.
It has a 1.8” display for clear readouts and enables manual control without computer aid.
Pros
- Sturdy material
- Extra protection from baffles
- Accurate cutting
- Good quality components
Cons
- Confusing limit switches
This pre-assembled router is very convenient to use even for beginners. It allows precise cutting while performing smoothly with less noise.
Best for Wide-Range Area Work
For those who plan on working with larger workpieces, the NOPTEG 3 Axis CNC 3040 Router Engraver’s wide engraving area will suit you the best.
Key Specifications
- 1/8-inch Bits
- 15.7 x 11.8 x 2.4-inch Engraving Surface
- 8,000 RPM
- High Torque Transmission
The NOPTEG 3 Axis CNC 3040 Router Engraver is a CNC router with 15.7 x 11.8 inches of engraving surface while the spindle can travel as low as 2.4 inches deep.
It is built with aluminum alloy materials and can be computer-controlled through an on-board parallel port.
Its high precision spindle motor allows high precision of engraving, together with its flexible coupling for high torque delivery.
It also comes with cover plates to reduce pollution and flyaway while working. This unit is extra secure with an emergency stop button.
Pros
- High precision of engraving
- High torque
- Durable material
- Extra secure
Cons
- Instructions could be clearer
This product is a great choice for those looking to do high precision engraving, which also allows seamless connection to computer with its communication interface.
Best CNC Router for Aluminum Buying Guide
Generally speaking, and CNC router can be used to cut and engrave on aluminum. However, if you want the best model the market has to offer, then you need to consider the following points.
Cutting Speed
This is a crucial aspect of purchasing the best CNC router for aluminum.
You should set the machine’s cutting speed based on the type of material you’re working with.
For aluminum workpieces, find a model that offers between 8,000 and 10,000 RPM. However, a higher RPM rating will allow you to work with all sorts of materials in the future.
Bit Size
The size of the bit will affect the fineness of the cut. A thinner bit is more accurate at producing tiny details, whereas a thicker bit will remove more material in fewer strokes.
However, if you work exclusively with aluminum, either a 1/8 or ¼-inch shanks will suit you just fine.
Engraving Surface
The engraving surface refers to the size of the CNC table’s worksurface. A wider table will generally allow you to work with large pieces of metal, wood, and plastic.
However, you should also pay attention to the spindle travel or how deep the bit can penetrate the surface of your work material.
Very rarely with you work with 1-inch pieces of aluminum, but a farther-traveling Z axis will allow you to engrave deeper or even cut wooden pieces in the future.
How to Use a CNC Router for Aluminum
Here’s a quick guide on how you can use your CNC router to engrave or cut through aluminum. Please note that your experience may differ based on the router model you choose.
1. Create the design and layout based on your client’s specifications. Calculate the path correctly and save the file.
2. Copy the saved file to the DSP controller. If you’re using a control card machine, open the software, read in the layout, then save the file.
3. Mount the aluminum workpiece onto the CNC table and define the point of origin. Start the spindle and adjust the spindle speed. When engraving aluminum, try and stay within the 8,000 to 10,000-RPM range.
4. Turn the machine on and let it perform a reset self-test. The X, Y, and Z axes should return to the zero point.
5. Adjust the X, Y, and Z axes and align them with the origin of the routing work. Make sure that the Z axis is set at the appropriate height and that it reaches the maximum penetrating depth that your project calls for.
6. Access the CNC file and transfer it to the CNC router table. The routing should be completed automatically.
7. After the routing is complete, the CNC router machine will automatically lift the spindle and return it to its starting point.
FAQ’s
Extremely easy. CNC machines can produce intricate cuts and designs that the human hand and eye are incapable of doing. However, your technical skill at operating computers and editing files will determine how you utilize your CNC machine. There are several helpful guidelines on the internet and on YouTube that show you how to get started.
Laser-cutting machines are several times more expensive than CNC routers. However, their higher upfront cost will pay off with cleaner and deeper cuts. However, lasers are designed specifically to cut aluminum, not engrave it. Also, lasers may not be the ideal choice for those who work with all sorts of materials.
Judging by the price tags of the models listed above, we think that a CNC router is worth the investment. Even the most inexpensive CNC router can help enhance your woodworking and metalworking game by quite a lot. These kinds of machines are used to produce cuts and designs that you, a human, cannot. And if you plan on doing commission work, then a CNC router is a must-have tool for your workshop.
All sorts of things! Best of all, a CNC router for aluminum can work on all sorts of materials. So, if you own a woodworking shop, you can use these routers to create intricate designs for furniture. However, what you can create is limited by your expertise at creating designs and operating these machines.
Summary
And there we have it, folks.
In today’s guide, we’ve shown you what the best CNC router for aluminum is, as well as several other options that can improve your aluminum-engraving game.
If you’re not sure which model to get, or if you’re unclear about anything in this guide, we’d love to hear your feedback in the comments section.