In my research of a sub $4000 CNC Router setup, I was initially dead-set on a Shapeoko Pro XXL. However the XXL has continued to be out of stock, and in the meantime I noticed a new model that looked interesting- the Onefinity Woodworker.
This machine retails for $2000, has the same carve volume of the Shapeoko Pro XXL, has ballscrews on all axis (including HDZ, a $450 Shapeoko upgrade), a built in independant controller, and touch display. There is no built plate included, but that is somewhat a minimal expense and one can use the CNC itself to carve channels for aluminum extrusions. There is also a sub <$50 joystick controller, which seems very convenient. The ballscrews are the most attractive aspect; no belt stretch, and just squirt some lube in them every so often for maintenance.
However, the Onefinity machine and company is pretty new: it does not seem to have nearly as well developed software compared to Carbide Motion and Carbide Create, nor nearly as large of a user base. The open source controller has basic integrated CAM as well as easy dropdown menus to use a PWM spindle, and loads of inputs/outputs.
This review by Myers Workshop is extremely in depth, and appears at first glance to be unbiased since both machines were provided to him for free (By Carbide3D and Onefinity).
I know there are a ton of advanced hobbyists as well as Carbide3D representatives here, has anyone tried both machines or have any additional information that could help make this decision?
Thanks. If this topic is unacceptable on this forum feel free to remove this thread- I am just looking for purchase advice and could also try on Reddit. I am not sure if I am missing something, because besides the risk of investing into a new companyās product, the hardware seems more appealing and at a lower cost. Of course I would just spend the difference in endmills