The LUNYEE 3018 Pro Max is the better CNC router overall, rated 2.9 to 2.2. The LUNYEE 3018 Pro Max leads on price and spindle. The Carbide 3D Nomad 3 wins on warranty. The LUNYEE 3018 Pro Max costs $2,501 less ($299 vs $2,800).
A low cost first CNC for small wood, plastic and PCB projects, with an offline controller and limit switches in the box. Buyers who plan to cut aluminum regularly should look at a machine with linear rails.
Amazon $379 LUNYEE $299For makers who need small precise parts in metal or plastic indoors, where an enclosure matters more than cutting area.
Carbide 3D $2,800Prices were last checked November 2, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every compact CNC router; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | LUNYEE 3018 Pro Max | Carbide 3D Nomad 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.9/5 | 2.2/5 |
| Price 25% | 83 $299 | 0 $2,800 |
| Work area 15% | 2 84 sq in (11.8 x 7.1 in) | 0 64 sq in (8 x 8 in) |
| Spindle 15% | 66 500 W spindle | 24 130 W spindle |
| Motion 20% | 45 screw or rack drive, limit switches | 45 screw or rack drive, limit switches |
| Warranty 25% | 0 1-year warranty | 25 1.5-year warranty |
| LUNYEE 3018 Pro Max | Carbide 3D Nomad 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Work area | ||
| Travel (X x Y x Z) | 11.8 x 7.1 x 3.1 in | 8 x 8 x 3 in |
| Area | 84 sq in | 64 sq in |
| Spindle | ||
| Spindle | 500W DC spindle, 52 mm mount | 130 W brushless DC, ER-11 collet |
| Power | 500 W | 130 W |
| Top speed | 12,000 rpm | 24,000 rpm |
| Motion and control | ||
| Frame | aluminum and carbon steel | machined aluminum frame in an HDPE or bamboo enclosure |
| Linear rails | No | - |
| Drive | Lead screw | Lead screw |
| Closed-loop steppers | No | - |
| Limit switches | Yes | Yes |
| Controller | GRBL 1.1f (32-bit board) | Carbide Motion |
| Offline controller | Yes | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 29 lb | - |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1.5 years |
| Released | - | 2020-10 |
