Ok guys I’m a newbie here just retired after 45 yos I have a small woodworking hobby shop My wife is going to buy me a CNC machine after hours of research I’ve decide on the SHAPEOKO the question I have is which one would need I’m not doing Big Projects something small to medium (or2 which would you choose sp4 XL or XXL or SP5 XL or XXL and what size table do I need for It to sit on any help would be appreciated. Oh and she did give me permission to get what ever I wanted
If you have the budget for it, an SO5 Pro is the way to go — so long as you are okay with the need to lubricate the linear rails.
An SO4 will reduce that need (only the Z-axis has linear rails), but will then require maintaining the belts.
As regards size, my recommendation is:
- if working on sheet goods/large projects, get an XXL or 4x4
- if working on boards, get an XL or 4x2
- if your projects/stock fit, get a Standard or 2x2
I picked a 4x2 when I had the chance, and managed to make it fit on a smallish table:
The other questions are:
- which spindle?
If you have 220 and are okay w/ managing a liquid cooling system, get an 80mm VFD, otherwise a 65mm VFD, unless you have a reason to get something else
- which dust shoe?
The stock Sweepy is awesome, but if getting a VFD, get a “Deep Sweep” — if working w/ sheet goods/flattish projects, then a Sweepy Pro may be a good fit, so long as you are okay with removing the bottom and shifting I up before each tool change, and then restoring the position of it after.
Will, thanks for the info I’ll use it wisely
In my opinion, the Shapeoko 5 Pro 2x4 would be idea for anybody wanting to do small shop cnc work. The 5 Pro has ball screws to drive all axial movements and these tend to hold location better without stretch like a belt driven machine would. I am not saying a belt drive cnc machine is bad because many people have made them work very well. But I wanted something to could power through something without belts causing issues. Plus I have ran many CNC machines at metal machine shops and they have ball screws to move them. They are highly accurate and power though anything I have thrown at them to cut.
Plus, again this is my opinion, ball screws are easier to do maintenance on and clean up. I own the Shapeoko 5 Pro 4x4 and love the machine. I have have my share of issues, mostly operator errors, and this thing is still working great. Know your size of shop, know your needs for a machine, and make sure that whatever you buy, be 100% sure it will fit your needs. Good luck.
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Very good info I’ll put it to good use