MakerMade CNC500 Review 2026: Is This Desktop CNC Worth It?

I have wanted to get into desktop CNC for a while without committing to an industrial-size machine, so I picked up the MakerMade CNC500 Base Model to see if a beginner-friendly desktop CNC can actually hold up to real projects.

What You Get: Build and Specs

The CNC500 is a compact 3-axis desktop mill with 500mm of working space, small enough to sit on top of a desk while still handling small-to-medium CNC projects. This base model ships with a 65mm clamp that fits most routers, and MakerMade also offers it with their Millie 775 Spindle or a more powerful CNC router if you want more cutting power.

Getting started

MakerMade markets this specifically as beginner-friendly, and the high-speed stepper motors handle intricate milling and carving work without feeling underpowered for a machine at this price point.

Community and support

One thing that stood out browsing MakerMade's own customer reviews: multiple users specifically called out the community support for new users working through setup questions, which matched my own experience getting the machine calibrated.

Pricing

The CNC500 Base Model lists at $1,498 regular price, but the current sale price is $1,141 - a real 23.8% markdown that is already applied at checkout, no coupon code required. Check current pricing on MakerMade's site since sale pricing can change.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Genuinely beginner-friendly without feeling like a toy
• 500mm working space is enough for real hobby projects
• Sale price already discounted 23.8% off, no code needed
• Upgradeable spindle/router options if you outgrow the base kit

Cons

• Still a real investment at $1,141 even discounted
• Base model's 65mm clamp limits which routers fit out of the box
• Desktop CNC machines have a learning curve if you are brand new to CNC

Final Verdict

If you want to get into CNC without jumping straight to an industrial machine, the CNC500 is a legitimately capable starting point. Shop the MakerMade CNC500 here at its current sale price, or check out the Ultimate Maker Bundle if you also want a laser engraver and 3D printer in one purchase.