I had a lot of fun with this machine. As you can see, this isn't a full review, more of a product showcase. I'm excited to see cnc milling getting easier and easier, and I'd love for some healthy competition in this size and capability. It really feels like a similar area to lasers right now such as the glowforge or muse. If only we could get machining to be that easy!
This is the kind of CNC milling I'm interested in- having it as plug and play as possible. Having easy to use/intuitive software is the name of the game. I want to spend most of my time designing parts for animatronics- not figuring out G code and troubleshooting machine setup.
Very nice to have!! If milling metal in precision, axis, complexity in CNC and developing accurate and well engineered CNC Machines is interesting content!!!
@@RobertCowanDIY I'm sure software updates are going to be supplied, and I expressed the same feeling about feedrate. The subscription stuff are advanced probing routines and advanced SVG->CAM systems for now. I think there's more cam related stuff coming in the subscription system. Everything you see in the video was done with the default (non subscription) set.
Hi Robert! Like Caleb mentioned, the machine comes with a base package of the Bantam Tools software for free. The base pack has everything users would need to get started. Think of the subscription pack as bonus features. In addition to these bonus features, subscribers will also have access to new software features we're going to release each month, priority tech support, and additional Bantam Tools content. As for software updates, all users will have access to those. Here's a link to a rope knotting tool that we machined using only base software features: ruclips.net/video/m957BzuMTXo/видео.html
Robert Cowan / The king of CNC has entered the chat! Happy that your keeping your eye on this guy! I agree with you Robert 100%. The fact that you need buy software to get better performance out of a machine that you paid for a terrible idea. Someone is not playing nice!
Have you received it yet? I ordered mine on 7/30/2020 and here it is almost 8 months later and haven't got a definite answer to when I will receive it...
Hi Jared! Just wanted to clarify that the machine comes with a base package of the Bantam Tools software for free. The base pack has everything users would need to get started. Think of the subscription pack as bonus features. In addition to these bonus features, subscribers will also have access to new software features we're going to release each month, priority tech support, and additional Bantam Tools content. But we realize that it might not be for everyone! Here's a link to a rope knotting tool that we machined using only base software features: ruclips.net/video/m957BzuMTXo/видео.html
Ability to adjust speed when your cutting is very important when your a beginner. Removing this from the "basic" free tools is a pretty cynical approach particularly for schools or maker spaces. Impressive speed and rigidity from such a small package just a pity that the owners are a bit greedy.
A 6040CNC with a larger work envelope, a 4th axis, stiffer rails and a 1500watt spindle is 1/3 the price. That's a lot to pay for a little ease of use.
I hate how many of these mid range machines refuse to advertise their price. I'm not going to look into it further if I don't even know if it's within my price range.
Another thing that needs to be considered when buying a machine that is completely proprietary is the approach and viability of the developer. If they go under you won't receive any support. Another problem is if they stop supporting older models. One manufacturer I have dealt with has a tactic of selling "upgrades" for older models. The developer here is selling by subscription would you trust them over the long term to support this product in a fair way.
Hi! For the past seven years, we’ve supported the Desktop PCB Milling Machine in all its iterations. Our goal is to do the same for the Desktop CNC Milling Machine. And also, just to clarify, you don't need to buy a subscription package to use the Desktop CNC Milling Machine. Every machine comes with a powerful base package for free.
Especially for schools and makerspaces a CNC with an enclosure is important. They always have to expect the stupidest possible user and are somewhat liable. Does this machine recognize and stop if someone opens the door?
In addition to the safety door, there is also an E-stop button on the machine and you can stop or pause the job in the software as well. Let us know if you have more questions :)
Tormach 440 is the cheapest step up from this. It will cut steel and titanium and a lot of knife makers seem to use it. It is not as portable and is made from cast iron, but the software is free with no subscription and easy to use. The weight helps vibration damping for tougher metals. Bare bones it is a few thousand dollars more though.
Hi! i got the same question? Sometimes i feel doubtful about which cnc is better for which types of jobs ? even Carbide has Nomad and shapeoko. Does all do the same, or not?
Hey there! If you’re deciding between the Nomad 883 or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, some of the important things to note are that our machine has 28,000 RPM spindle, supports 1/4" tooling, and has a working volume of 7" x 9" x 3.5". Also, like Caleb mentioned, our software includes conductive probing of the tool height and stock location to make setting a plan or material offset easy, reliable, and precise.
Does the default software package include updates. or is that only with the subscription model? It's nice to have a sense of fully "owning" something of this price, and taking advantage of its capabilities, without a subscription.
I had two stalls because I was trying to push too hard through brass, but didn't snap a single endmill. To be fair, I'm not sure this machine is quite strong enough to snap endmills.
Hi there! To help users avoid breaking bits we will have a breakdown of feeds and speeds recipes we recommend (after A LOT of testing) for end mills we carry in our store for supported materials. We'll also have resources for Fusion 360 Workflows that will help users when it comes to designing in CAD and programming CAM in Fusion 360. And the Custom Tool Library Caleb mentioned will be a way for you to create your own custom recipes as well. This really comes in handy when you're working with SVGs!
Bantam Tools thats good to hear. I just remember watching caleb destroy end mills learning the tormach. Was interested how well this machine was for learning. Sounds like its pretty good
for cutting metal, this is a much better fit than a shapeoko. more rigid for sure. If you were only cutting wood and plastic, shapeoko would be a totally legit alternative.
Matt Austin this comes assembled. The shapeoko instructions were terrible when I put mine together. The shapeoko is also harder to know your speeds and feeds if new to cnc. The support for that is kinda crap and when you ask you get pointed to a wiki that is just mostly links to forum posts by users. With bantam tools you are paying extra for the hand holding and easier work flow it appears.
Awesome! Abdi Automation makes one to fit a similar market. (Heavier and looks like it could use some actuator protection?) If you ever get a chance to play with it and compare it that would be amazing. Also interested to see more about the pocket NC 5 axis thingamajig 8P
does anybody who isn't sponsored by Bantam actually have a working unit? Why are there no other videos reviewing this machine on youtube except by sponsored maker channels?
I would like too buy a small desktop cnc machine too make small custom parts. And finding one that suits my requirements and budget at the same time. Really like help on this.
I don't understand! This machine is selling for $4000. How come everything is so cheap, Nema 17 stepper motor, lead screw, 250w spindle… for the cost of all these hardware configurations, I would pay no more than $1000 for this thing.
I know this is a late comment, but mine does not need internet connection. It does need access to a computer (as it does not have one with the machine) but my laptop does not need to be connected to the wifi while I run it.
Wait and for people bitching about the price , look on carbide 3ds page at the nomad or the inventables page at the carvey... they are close to the same price but not as rigid as this machine. The shapokeo isn't mad to cut aluminum, you can but its not going to like it. This mahcine actually looks like it can handle it( i don't own one as im too broke to buy one ) Also for those bitching about subscription software... you do realize some bigger named companies also make you pay a subscription fee for certain parts of software even some VMC companies do that... Honestly I would go with this over a regular desktop router. If you have the $10k I would go with the pcnc440 by tormach got a bit more than get a machine with a bt30 or ct40 spindle like a HAAS, Mazak, or tormachs new cnc. Also this is great for people with little space in their shop like me. Another thing, this guy in the video saying CNC( I'm assuming he is talking the programing side) is hard , thats not really true , it takes time and a bit of experience but programing for a CNC isn't really all that hard if you understand feed , speeds and the difference between climb and conventional milling ( that was somthing beaten into us when i was in school) Watch some tutorials from titan or buy a book from CAM instructors. Watch NYCNC . There is a lot of information out there on programing.
@M T I got a hobby mill for 1400 USD for another 2000 USD i can easily build a cnc with ball screws and use fusion 360. it's too much money. Yes it works. But other options are way more capable for same price.
@M T I made those numbers match on purpose, integration headaches?? I follow a few guides online, work out the bugs, that's part of the learning process. I am interested in engineering so I don't see that as an issue. I get it people want click and go. I want something different. Still think the price to what you get does not make sense. All for supporting desktop engineering!!!
Hi! If you’re deciding between the Shapeoko or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, some of the important things to note are that our machine has 28,000 RPM spindle, supports 1/4" tooling, and has a working volume of 7" x 9" x 3.5". Also, like Caleb mentioned, our software includes conductive probing of the tool height and stock location to make setting a plan or material offset easy, reliable, and precise. And it comes ready to use right out of the box. Hope this helps for making a comparison!
I had a lot of fun with this machine. As you can see, this isn't a full review, more of a product showcase. I'm excited to see cnc milling getting easier and easier, and I'd love for some healthy competition in this size and capability. It really feels like a similar area to lasers right now such as the glowforge or muse. If only we could get machining to be that easy!
This is the kind of CNC milling I'm interested in- having it as plug and play as possible. Having easy to use/intuitive software is the name of the game. I want to spend most of my time designing parts for animatronics- not figuring out G code and troubleshooting machine setup.
Very nice to have!! If milling metal in precision, axis, complexity in CNC and developing accurate and well engineered CNC Machines is interesting content!!!
Wait a minute, the machine uses a proprietary control software, which requires an annual subscription?
no, you get teh software with all the basic features, but you can pay a subscription to get more advanced features
@@CalebKraftmakes I would think software updates and feedrate override are considered basic functions.
@@RobertCowanDIY I'm sure software updates are going to be supplied, and I expressed the same feeling about feedrate. The subscription stuff are advanced probing routines and advanced SVG->CAM systems for now. I think there's more cam related stuff coming in the subscription system. Everything you see in the video was done with the default (non subscription) set.
Hi Robert! Like Caleb mentioned, the machine comes with a base package of the Bantam Tools software for free. The base pack has everything users would need to get started. Think of the subscription pack as bonus features. In addition to these bonus features, subscribers will also have access to new software features we're going to release each month, priority tech support, and additional Bantam Tools content. As for software updates, all users will have access to those. Here's a link to a rope knotting tool that we machined using only base software features: ruclips.net/video/m957BzuMTXo/видео.html
Robert Cowan / The king of CNC has entered the chat! Happy that your keeping your eye on this guy!
I agree with you Robert 100%. The fact that you need buy software to get better performance out of a machine that you paid for a terrible idea.
Someone is not playing nice!
I bought one. For small quick prototype parts it seemed like a good fit.
How much was it?
Thank you!
Have you received it yet? I ordered mine on 7/30/2020 and here it is almost 8 months later and haven't got a definite answer to when I will receive it...
Follow up bump to Ray Blankship's questions. Have you received it yet?
hello?
I want one... Is there a subscription package that can mute it's noise though?
Annual subscription software is not great for schools and maker-spaces with already limited funds. Sad to see them going with this model.
again, the annual subscription was for some additional features that aren't needed. everything you see me do in the video is non subscription
Hi Jared! Just wanted to clarify that the machine comes with a base package of the Bantam Tools software for free. The base pack has everything users would need to get started. Think of the subscription pack as bonus features. In addition to these bonus features, subscribers will also have access to new software features we're going to release each month, priority tech support, and additional Bantam Tools content. But we realize that it might not be for everyone! Here's a link to a rope knotting tool that we machined using only base software features: ruclips.net/video/m957BzuMTXo/видео.html
Ability to adjust speed when your cutting is very important when your a beginner. Removing this from the "basic" free tools is a pretty cynical approach particularly for schools or maker spaces. Impressive speed and rigidity from such a small package just a pity that the owners are a bit greedy.
@@bantamtools I bet you will sell 10 to 12 of these. To rich kids.
Come back when you are ready for the big leagues.
A 6040CNC with a larger work envelope, a 4th axis, stiffer rails and a 1500watt spindle is 1/3 the price. That's a lot to pay for a little ease of use.
Where can I get one?
I hate how many of these mid range machines refuse to advertise their price. I'm not going to look into it further if I don't even know if it's within my price range.
Another thing that needs to be considered when buying a machine that is completely proprietary is the approach and viability of the developer. If they go under you won't receive any support. Another problem is if they stop supporting older models. One manufacturer I have dealt with has a tactic of selling "upgrades" for older models. The developer here is selling by subscription would you trust them over the long term to support this product in a fair way.
Hi! For the past seven years, we’ve supported the Desktop PCB Milling Machine in all its iterations. Our goal is to do the same for the Desktop CNC Milling Machine. And also, just to clarify, you don't need to buy a subscription package to use the Desktop CNC Milling Machine. Every machine comes with a powerful base package for free.
I would also like to say that you could run this machine with mach 3 if they ever went under...
I use sketch up 3D modeling software . Would this work or do I need fusion 360
Especially for schools and makerspaces a CNC with an enclosure is important. They always have to expect the stupidest possible user and are somewhat liable. Does this machine recognize and stop if someone opens the door?
yes, it stops if you open the door. The spindle will not spin with the door open.
In addition to the safety door, there is also an E-stop button on the machine and you can stop or pause the job in the software as well. Let us know if you have more questions :)
So what are the other candidate CNC that can cut metal well? I saw shapeoko in the comment, but I am wondering if there are others.
Tormach 440 is the cheapest step up from this. It will cut steel and titanium and a lot of knife makers seem to use it. It is not as portable and is made from cast iron, but the software is free with no subscription and easy to use. The weight helps vibration damping for tougher metals. Bare bones it is a few thousand dollars more though.
Hi! i got the same question? Sometimes i feel doubtful about which cnc is better for which types of jobs ? even Carbide has Nomad and shapeoko. Does all do the same, or not?
Hey there! If you’re deciding between the Nomad 883 or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, some of the important things to note are that our machine has 28,000 RPM spindle, supports 1/4" tooling, and has a working volume of 7" x 9" x 3.5". Also, like Caleb mentioned, our software includes conductive probing of the tool height and stock location to make setting a plan or material offset easy, reliable, and precise.
It's just a little small on the z axis
Does the default software package include updates. or is that only with the subscription model? It's nice to have a sense of fully "owning" something of this price, and taking advantage of its capabilities, without a subscription.
Did you snap any mills learning, or was the software good?
I had two stalls because I was trying to push too hard through brass, but didn't snap a single endmill. To be fair, I'm not sure this machine is quite strong enough to snap endmills.
Hi there! To help users avoid breaking bits we will have a breakdown of feeds and speeds recipes we recommend (after A LOT of testing) for end mills we carry in our store for supported materials. We'll also have resources for Fusion 360 Workflows that will help users when it comes to designing in CAD and programming CAM in Fusion 360. And the Custom Tool Library Caleb mentioned will be a way for you to create your own custom recipes as well. This really comes in handy when you're working with SVGs!
Bantam Tools thats good to hear. I just remember watching caleb destroy end mills learning the tormach. Was interested how well this machine was for learning. Sounds like its pretty good
@@StuffWithKirby, we hear you! Definitely a good question!
What am I missing? it seems like a tiny cut area and limited software compared to the Shapeoko for 2X the price?..
for cutting metal, this is a much better fit than a shapeoko. more rigid for sure. If you were only cutting wood and plastic, shapeoko would be a totally legit alternative.
Matt Austin this comes assembled. The shapeoko instructions were terrible when I put mine together. The shapeoko is also harder to know your speeds and feeds if new to cnc. The support for that is kinda crap and when you ask you get pointed to a wiki that is just mostly links to forum posts by users. With bantam tools you are paying extra for the hand holding and easier work flow it appears.
Stuff With Kirby by paying extra you mean 2x.
Caleb Kraft why not pay 1/2 as much to cut both.
Matt Austin do you own a shapeoko? I think you are overestimating its out of the box capabilities.
Video tip price first
I need to cut small titanium parts, any suggestions?
Awesome! Abdi Automation makes one to fit a similar market. (Heavier and looks like it could use some actuator protection?) If you ever get a chance to play with it and compare it that would be amazing. Also interested to see more about the pocket NC 5 axis thingamajig 8P
This looks waaaaaaaaay better than tormach xs
does anybody who isn't sponsored by Bantam actually have a working unit? Why are there no other videos reviewing this machine on youtube except by sponsored maker channels?
ruclips.net/video/0a_HNR46N1o/видео.html here is a honest review.
I would like too buy a small desktop cnc machine too make small custom parts. And finding one that suits my requirements and budget at the same time. Really like help on this.
The price is terrible hight, about 3500 dollar. Is too much for a smaller machine. And only 3 axis.
If you know anything about cnc machines you would know for what this is the price is correct
I've see this comment all over but the problem here is that a CNC noob, like me doesn't see any alternatives. Where are the comparison videos?
I don't understand! This machine is selling for $4000. How come everything is so cheap, Nema 17 stepper motor, lead screw, 250w spindle… for the cost of all these hardware configurations, I would pay no more than $1000 for this thing.
Damn this thing went from $3600 to $6500 in 2 years.
Thanks 🙏🏻
A DMC1 would be a better choice.
Internet connected requirement is a deal breaker.
I know this is a late comment, but mine does not need internet connection. It does need access to a computer (as it does not have one with the machine) but my laptop does not need to be connected to the wifi while I run it.
around 4k USD? is this a joke?
#ImperialWhore please use metric to describe dimensions
Wait and for people bitching about the price , look on carbide 3ds page at the nomad or the inventables page at the carvey... they are close to the same price but not as rigid as this machine. The shapokeo isn't mad to cut aluminum, you can but its not going to like it. This mahcine actually looks like it can handle it( i don't own one as im too broke to buy one )
Also for those bitching about subscription software... you do realize some bigger named companies also make you pay a subscription fee for certain parts of software even some VMC companies do that...
Honestly I would go with this over a regular desktop router. If you have the $10k I would go with the pcnc440 by tormach got a bit more than get a machine with a bt30 or ct40 spindle like a HAAS, Mazak, or tormachs new cnc.
Also this is great for people with little space in their shop like me.
Another thing, this guy in the video saying CNC( I'm assuming he is talking the programing side) is hard , thats not really true , it takes time and a bit of experience but programing for a CNC isn't really all that hard if you understand feed , speeds and the difference between climb and conventional milling ( that was somthing beaten into us when i was in school)
Watch some tutorials from titan or buy a book from CAM instructors. Watch NYCNC . There is a lot of information out there on programing.
this is a toy, I would not bother with it personally. is it really 3600 USD?
@M T I got a hobby mill for 1400 USD for another 2000 USD i can easily build a cnc with ball screws and use fusion 360. it's too much money. Yes it works. But other options are way more capable for same price.
@M T I made those numbers match on purpose, integration headaches?? I follow a few guides online, work out the bugs, that's part of the learning process. I am interested in engineering so I don't see that as an issue. I get it people want click and go. I want something different. Still think the price to what you get does not make sense. All for supporting desktop engineering!!!
Batmaaaaaaaaaaan
;)
are you ben affleck
Hmm shapeoko or bantam.
Hi! If you’re deciding between the Shapeoko or the Bantam Tools Desktop CNC Milling Machine, some of the important things to note are that our machine has 28,000 RPM spindle, supports 1/4" tooling, and has a working volume of 7" x 9" x 3.5". Also, like Caleb mentioned, our software includes conductive probing of the tool height and stock location to make setting a plan or material offset easy, reliable, and precise. And it comes ready to use right out of the box. Hope this helps for making a comparison!
Doesn’t mill steel 😑
Make a Raspberry Pi 4 aluminum case. lol
Looks like absolute garbage for that price.
Stopped watching the review after a few minutes, went totally crazy of the terrible background “music”.
Sensitive guy are we, Gary?
@@drumbum7999 Yep. :-)