Hi everyone,
New here and have recently just came across Shapeoko machines and the 5 Pro looks promising for my needs but looking for some info from those of you with some hands on experience. (I do realize this is a Shapeoko forum too haha)
I’m currently between this and the Stepcraft M1000.
If I’m to be honest, the Stepcraft caught my eye because I think it’s a beautiful machine, but it does also appear pretty decent too.
For my needs, it’s light duty work… foam and laser engraving/etching is the current need but I’m sure wood will find its way in there as well. I don’t see a need for cutting aluminum, only laser engraving/etching.
With that being said, the Stepcraft has a direct option for Vacuum table. From what I can see I’d have to make my own with the Shapeoko.
If I did go with Stepcraft, I would get the upgraded ball screws whereas of course that is standard with the Shapeoko, but they would be similarly spec’d in that manner.
The Shapeoko would be much less expensive.
I imagine both would suit me just fine regarding accuracy for wood/foam/laser work and be similar enough in rigidity for said applications. But again, I’d need to make my own vacuum table with Shapeoko.
Lastly, current power requirements are it’s gotta work on standard 110v/15a receptacle, so this is why I’m not looking into other more powerful machines, but do want the option to upgrade to a more powerful spindle if things change in the future.
I appreciate any advice or input any of you might have, thanks!
