A starter 3018 for someone who wants to try engraving and small signs for the least money. Anyone planning real cutting should start with a stronger spindle.
Amazon $142.90The VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W is the better CNC router overall, rated 2.7 to 2.2. The VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W leads on price. The Carbide 3D Nomad 3 wins on spindle. The VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W costs $2,657.10 less ($142.90 vs $2,800).
For 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.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W for price ($142.90 vs $2,800).
- Choose the Carbide 3D Nomad 3 for spindle (130 W spindle vs 60 W spindle).
Scores side by side
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 | VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W | Carbide 3D Nomad 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 2.7/5 | 2.2/5 |
| Price 25% | 100 $142.90 | 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% | 0 60 W spindle | 24 130 W spindle |
| Motion 20% | 50 motion system not published (neutral score used) | 45 screw or rack drive, limit switches |
| Warranty 25% | 0 warranty not published, scored as none | 25 1.5-year warranty |
Specifications
| VEVOR 3018 CNC Router 60W | Carbide 3D Nomad 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Work area | ||
| Travel (X x Y x Z) | 11.8 x 7.1 x 1.6 in | 8 x 8 x 3 in |
| Area | 84 sq in | 64 sq in |
| Spindle | ||
| Spindle | 60 W DC spindle | 130 W brushless DC, ER-11 collet |
| Power | 60 W | 130 W |
| Top speed | 11,700 rpm | 24,000 rpm |
| Motion and control | ||
| Frame | 6061 aluminum alloy | machined aluminum frame in an HDPE or bamboo enclosure |
| Drive | - | Lead screw |
| Limit switches | - | Yes |
| Controller | GRBL 1.1, 32-bit board | Carbide Motion |
| Offline controller | No | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 14.8 lb | - |
| Warranty | - | 1.5 years |
| Released | - | 2020-10 |
