Generally speaking you can expect a CNC machine to last 15-20 years, but with proper care and maintenance a CNC machine could see a lifespan of over 30 years.

CNC routers can cut softer materials like wood, plastic, foam and non-ferrous metals like aluminum. They are less rigid than CNC mills, so they cannot transfer enough force to cut through harder materials. On the other hand, CNC mills can cut through harder materials due to the rigidity of the machine head and tooling.

Most entry level and hobby 4x8 CNC routers are priced from $4880, while some can be as expensive as $5680.00 with 4th axis rotary table. The higher end 4'x8' CNC routers with automatic tool changer kits are priced anywhere from $18,000.00 to $23,800.00, depending on the machine's capabilities.

The effective cutting depth is usually 1/2″. Quarter inch diameter bits are good for cutting thicker materials, like wood, and removing more material per pass. The effective cutting depth is usually 1″.