Alternative to 3D Printers: The Affordable Desktop CNC Makera Z1

Makera has introduced the affordable desktop CNC Z1. It offers a strong alternative to 3D printers with 0.02 mm accuracy, quick tool change, and an integrated dust collection system.

Makera is introducing a new player to the desktop CNC market: the Z1. The company designed this new machine specifically targeting “entry-level” users. The Z1 offers the same features as the Makera Carvera Air, such as automatic leveling, 0.02 mm accuracy, and quick tool change, while nearly halving the price.

Affordable Price, Wide Working Potential

The Carvera and Carvera Air models are known as devices that aim to make desktop CNC as easy to use as a 3D printer, appealing to the “CNC from scratch” concept. However, these machines were known for their high prices. For instance, the 4-axis set of the Carvera Air is around $2,897 on Amazon. The Z1 nearly cuts this price in half, bringing it down to $1,199. Moreover, it’s being offered with an early bird opportunity at $799. Makera is taking a $39 refundable reservation fee for pre-orders and is providing a $400 discount to early purchasers. The first shipments are planned for January 2025. A Kickstarter project for the product will also be launched soon.

One of the most notable features of the Z1 is that it offers a working area very close to the Carvera Air, with a 200 × 200 mm cutting area and a 100 mm height. The machine comes with a 150 W, 13,000 RPM spindle. It’s possible to use different collets, such as 6 mm and 4 mm, as optional extras. The quick tool change system, just like on the Carvera Air, provides significant convenience for the user.

Instead of the external air and vacuum system on the Carvera Air, the Z1 comes with an integrated AeroDust collection system. This system collects chips and dust while cooling the spindle. Additionally, with its cast aluminum body, linear rails, and CAM software compatibility, the machine offers a compact structure. Its closable lid significantly reduces noise and dust levels. These can be seen as design steps taken for home use.

The Makera Z1 can cut materials such as hard and soft woods, MDF, various plastics, FR4 and fiberglass composites, and metals like aluminum, copper, brass, and bronze. The Z1 also supports the expandability features of the Carvera Air with its optional 4th axis kit and 5 W module. It is compatible with the updated Makera CAM software (now Makera Studio) and can be controlled via the Makera App on Windows, Linux, macOS, iOS, or Android.

Do you think this aggressive pricing and integrated design will make the Makera Z1 the go-to choice for hobbyists looking for a CNC alternative to 3D printing?

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