If you’re exploring the world of automated woodworking, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: How much does a CNC machine for wood cost? Whether you’re a hobbyist, small business owner, or industrial manufacturer, understanding the price range, features, and value of CNC machines is essential before making an investment.
This expert guide breaks down the cost of CNC wood machines by type, size, features, and brand—so you can make an informed decision tailored to your needs and budget.
How Much Does A CNC Wood Router Cost?
Table sizes, features, durability, performance, quality, precision, speed, brand, manufacturer, customer service and support are some of the crucial factors that will play a good role in determining the overall price of an automatic CNC machine for woodworking.
The average cost of owning a CNC woodworking router machine in 2025 is approximately $3,600 from budget-friendly home classes to costly commercial types. Most entry-level CNC wood routers with small sizes range in price from $2,580 to $5,280 for beginners in woodworking, while some large-format models will full-size working tables can be as expensive as $7,200 for experienced craftsmen and carpenters. The professional wood CNC routers come with a price tag from $3,680 to $16,000 for enthusiasts, depending on the machine’s features and capabilities. The enterprise and industrial woodworking CNC machines can cost anywhere from $18,000 to $120,000 for commercial use, which are pricey to own and operate. In addition, the high-end smart CNC woodworking machines combine multiple kits in one (including cutter, miller, driller, slotter, sander, laminator), with relatively high prices ranging from $12,000 to $160,000, and are popular in custom furniture manufacturing, such as personalized door and cabinet making.
If you have an idea to buy a wood CNC machine overseas, the fee of customs clearance, tax, and shipping costs should be included in the final price.
Whether you are a small business owner or an industrial manufacturer, don’t just focus on price, matching your woodworking plans is what you should consider.
What Is a CNC Wood Machine?
A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) wood machine is a programmable tool that automates cutting, carving, drilling, and engraving tasks on wood and wood-based materials. It interprets G-code instructions generated from CAD/CAM software to produce precise, repeatable designs.
CNC Wood Machine Price Ranges by Category
The cost of a CNC machine for wood varies significantly depending on its type, size, power, and automation level. Below is a detailed breakdown:
1. Entry-Level CNC Routers (Hobbyist Use)
- Price Range: $300 – $2,000
- Ideal For: DIYers, small crafts, signs, and light-duty work
Benchtop CNC Machines (Small Business Use)
- Price Range: $2,000 – $8,000
- Ideal For: Furniture parts, signage, cabinetry, and prototyping
Mid-Range CNC Routers (Professional Use)
- Price Range: $8,000 – $25,000
- Ideal For: Small factories, custom furniture makers, and production shops
- Features:
- Larger work area (4×4 or 4×8 feet)
- More powerful spindles (1.5kW–3kW)
- Tool changers and vacuum tables
Industrial CNC Wood Machines
- Price Range: $25,000 – $150,000+
- Ideal For: Mass production, large-scale furniture factories, architectural millwork
- Features:
- Automatic tool changers (ATC)
- Multi-zone vacuum beds
- 4-axis or 5-axis capabilities
- Dust collection and safety enclosures
What Affects the Price of a CNC Wood Machine?
1. Machine Size and Work Area
Larger machines with 4×8 ft beds cost significantly more than desktop or benchtop models.
2. Spindle Power
Higher spindle wattage (measured in kW or HP) allows for deeper, faster cuts—raising the price.
3. Axis Configuration
- 3-axis: Standard for most woodworking
- 4-axis: Adds rotary carving (costs more)
- 5-axis: For complex 3D shapes (industrial use)
4. Software and Controller
Some machines include proprietary software, while others require third-party CAD/CAM tools.
5. Build Quality and Frame Material
Steel-frame CNCs are more rigid and durable than aluminum or MDF-based machines.
6. Automation Features
- Tool changers
- Vacuum hold-downs
- Dust collection
- Touch probes
These features add convenience but increase cost.
CNC Machine Cost Comparison Table
| Machine Type | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $300 – $2,000 | Hobbyists, DIY |
| Benchtop | $2,000 – $8,000 | Small businesses |
| Mid-Range | $8,000 – $25,000 | Professional shops |
| Industrial | $25,000 – $150,000+ | Mass production |
How To Choose The Best Controller For Woodworking?
Computerized Controller
That is, by installing a control card on the PCI slot of the computer motherboard, and installing the software driver on the computer to control the walking of the machine’s X, Y, Z axis and the rotation of the spindle motor, the processing effect can be previewed, and you can see it at any time to the processing track, if the program loading error can be corrected in time.
The controller has a humanized interface, simple and convenient operation, complete functions, and high program compatibility. Various CAM software can be imported directly or indirectly.
Handle DSP Controller
That is, you can control the movement of the machine in your hand. It saves space and does not occupy a computer; the disadvantage is that the operation is relatively troublesome, after all, all functions are integrated on a control panel, and it is easy to press the wrong function keys if the operation is unskilled.
It is widely used with various computerized woodworking machines (including 4-axis linkage) without occupying a separate computer, which greatly reduces the footprint of the equipment and is more convenient for tool setting.
The disadvantage is that there is no preview and other functions, and the interface is not as intuitive as a computer.
All-In-One Controller
Independent integrated design, using industrial computer, PLC and other integrated control, rich interfaces, complete functions, can realize multi-axis control and automatic tool change.
It’s mainly used for high-end computerized wood carving machines, computerized woodworking machining centers, and some computer-controlled milling machines, the anti-interference ability of the control system, as well as all aspects of performance, control accuracy and more, which are better than other types. The controller is integrated in the computerized operating system. It is not the mainstream, but it is the mainstream of the all-in-one type in the controller.
The disadvantage is that the price is high and the operability tends to be CNC wood cutting machine. For some customers, the operation is not as simple as the former.
What Are CNC Wood Routers Used For?
These automatic machine tools are mostly used for woodworkers and carpenters to do woodworking in industrial manufacturing, small business, small shop, home business, home shop, school education. Besides, craftsman and hobbyists will also find a computer-controlled wood CNC machine useful.
Here are some of the fields where a CNC wood router will have access:
• Furniture Making – Home furniture, art furniture, antique furniture, office furniture, cabinet making, door making, cabinet doors, interior doors, home doors, cupboard doors, table legs, sofa legs, wood spindles, corners, screens, headboards, composite gates, MDF projects, wood crafts, wood arts.
• Advertising.
• Die Making.
• Hollowing.
• Relief Carvings.
• Wood Cylinders.
• 3D Woodworking Projects.
• Sign Making.
• Custom Woodworking Plans.
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