This FAQ is directed at new users to cnc routers.
Often, we get asked, which should I get, the Makita router or a spindle? This faq is designed to help answer that question for you. Each individual can come to a different conclusion. There is no one right answer.
Technical Support and Warranty
One important point to consider is that Onefinity does not offer any technical support for any spindles other than the Onefinity Spindle Kit by Redline CNC or Makita Trim Router.
When using any other spindle than the above, Onefinity will not be able to provide technical support and may ask you to remove your spindle to diagnose any machine issues you may have.
Onefinity is not responsible for any damage or injury from improper wiring of aftermarket, unsupported VFDs, spindles or ATCs. If it is not sold directly from Onefinity, it is considered aftermarket. Use of these aftermarket products may void your warranty. Please use at your own risk.
What spindle mount size should you buy?
See more here:
ROUTER
Makita Router Example ($89 us):
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SPINDLE:
Our official recommendation is to start off with the Makita router. When starting off with cnc, there’s so much to learn. Some of which includes:
RPMS
Feed Rate
Stepover
Depth of Cut
Bit selection
CAD design
Toolpath design
Material specifics
Material hold down/clamping
gcode commands
Etc.
That’s a lot of things to figure out all at once! Adding a spindle to the equation compounds the learning curve.
Benefits
Makita:
Pros:
- Cheap. Can be found for less than $99us
- Simple to use.
- Commonly found at big box stores locally.
- Brushes are cheap.
- Can be used as a hand router when not in use on the CNC.
- 110v can be run on any household outlet.
- Onefinity tech support.
- Manufacturer Warranty/ Easy store return.
Cons:
- Loud (around 80-100 dbs)
- ‘Dirty electrical signal’ can affect the CNC or other devices (EMI)
- Short power cord (not drag chain friendly)
- Brushes (consumable part) will only last so many hours until they need to be changed.
- Speed is controlled by dial on router.
- On/off is controlled by switch on router.
- RPM range is smaller compared to spindles (affects metal more than wood).
- Cannot be controlled by gcode.
- Shorter Lifespan when compared to a spindle.
- only 1/4 and 1/8 shanked bits can be used.
- Larger runout.
Spindle:
Pros:
- Quiet (from 50-80 dbs)
- Onefinity Spindle Kit by Redline CNC is supported and warrantied.
- No consumable parts (like brushes)
- Wider RPM range (more for metal)
- Longer life expectancy
- Can be controlled by Gcode (speed/on, off)
- Larger collets available, such as 1/2 sized bits can be used.
- Smaller ‘runout’ of bit (tool spin offset error).
- Run ‘cooler’ so can be run much longer time periods.
Cons:
- Spindles not sold by Onefinity directly do not get tech support.
- Larger physical size.
- Cost is 4x or more than the Makita Router.
- Some are water cooled. Will add more wires to manage (in and outlet water tubes). A potential to spill liquid onto the machine or electronics. Liquid can also freeze in nonconditioned air workspaces.
- Requires the optional ‘breakout board’
- Some require a 220v power outlet which is not a common household outlet in NA.
Operational Differences:
Here’s what the process looks like to a new user when using either a spindle or the Makita router for the first time.
Router:
Unbox the router. Remove the plunge base. Place the router body in the z slider. Tighten the z slider mount. Plug in the router cord to your regular wall outlet. Load the gcode program. Zero xyz. Turn on router with the switch. Rotate rpm dial to proper speed setting for you file. Press play.
Spindle:
Unbox router. Insert spindle into spindle mount. Connect 2 VFD cables, one to controller, one to spindle. Plug in spindle. Load the file. Zero xyz. Press Play.
Conclusion:
If you are a beginner or hobbyist and if you’re not confident about the electrical wiring required for a VFD, then choosing a router might be the way to go. The Makita is a solid and proven router.
Spindles are the apt choice for CNC machines requiring heavy use. However, they add some complexity and cost can be off-putting to many.
Routers and spindles have their unique benefits as well as downsides.
To make a good choice between a router and a spindle, consider each factor discussed above and make a calculated choice. If you go with the Makita first then upgrade to a spindle later, you’re left with a great trim router that all woodshops need anyways, so there’s no wasted money!
Notes:
More info on the breakout board can be found here: Info on the Breakout Board Accessory (non-elite machines only) (only applicable for non-elite machines)