We are living in the age of technology where almost everything is controlled electronically. Printed circuit boards (PCBs) are an integral part of this electronic revolution. It acts as a bridge for digital communication between several components of an electrical system. As a result, the PCBs have to be manufactured with the highest precision. Amongst various manufacturing processes, the PCB milling machine has been gaining popularity in recent times.
A PCB milling machine is a specialized machine that creates pathways for PCB via a milling process. The milling process involves the removal of copper material from the base plate. Since these machines are connected to a computer, automation becomes possible. Minimization of human eros is also achieved which is crucial for the PCB. To understand this machine, we must be aware of certain factors.
- Spindle Motor Specifications: A spindle motor is the heart of a PCB milling machine without which, the milling process will not happen. The tool is vertically mounted on a milling machine’s spindle. The spindle motor offers rotation to the tool to cut material from the workpiece (copper bed). The 775 motor is the most popularly used motor for spindles. It offers variable speeds from 0 to 10,000 RPMs.
- Compatible OS: The PCB milling machines are connected to computer systems to give commands or feed codes related to the milling process. Most milling machines have specialized software to customize the input commands. Hence, the machine must be compatible with different operating systems to ensure efficient running of the software. These machines support both Windows and MAC operating systems.
- Output Current: The output current governs the sub-factors of the whole milling process. It is the current supplied to various components of the milling machine including the spindle motor and stepper motor. The continuous supply of current helps in achieving precise movements for stepper motors. In the spindle motor, the output current helps in changing the spindle speed. The output current lies between 1.3 to 5.6 A.
PCB milling machines are complex units. By discussing these factors, the process of understanding a PCB milling machine is simplified. Do you want to manufacture PCBs at a lower price? If yes, we will advise you to go through the detailed list of the best PCB milling machines. The article also includes a “Buying Guide” and FAQ section to ease your selection process.
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Best PCB Milling Machine Table
| PCB Milling Machine | Spindle Motor Specifications | Compatible OS | Output Current | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genmitsu PCB Milling Machine | 775 motor, 24V, 10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, MacOS | 1.3 A | Check On Amazon |
| MYSWEETY PCB Milling Machine | 775 motor, 12-36V, 8000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 | 3 A | Check On Amazon |
| Titoe 2 in 1 20W PCB Milling Machine | 775 motor, 24V, 10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 | 3 A | Check On Amazon |
| Titoe 2 in 1 7000mW PCB Milling Machine | 775 motor, 24V, 0-10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 | 3 A | Check On Amazon |
| FoxAlien PCB Milling Machine | 300 Spindle, 110V, 0-10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, Linux, MacOS | 10 A | Check On Amazon |
| VEVOR PCB Milling Machine | 775 Spindle, 24V, 10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, Linux, MacOS | 5 A | Check On Amazon |
| CNCTOPBAOS PCB Milling Machine | 775 spindle motor, 24V-36V, 10000 RPM | Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, Linux | 5.6 A | Check On Amazon |
Best PCB Milling Machine Reviews
1. Genmitsu PCB Milling Machine
SianSmart has been manufacturing high-quality electronic machines for manufacturing applications. With its Genmitsu line, it has introduced a range of milling machines for beginners and professionals.
The Genmitsu CNC 3018-PRO Router Kit GRBL Control 3 Axis Milling Machine offers improved performance compared to its previous version. This milling machine gets a powerful 775 spindle motor which runs on a power supply of 24V. The power delivery is calibrated to run the spindle at the speed of 10,000 RPMs. The output current of 1.3A helps in tuning the spindle speed up to 20,000 in extreme cases.
The redesigned control board offers a centralized connection for all the components. The effective engraving area of 300x180x45mm allows the milling of large workpieces. The aluminium frames measure over 400x330x240mm with excellent rigidity. It uses the GRBL control software, which is compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, and MacOS platforms.
Best Features
- A 24V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 and macOS
- Output current of 1.3A
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Aluminium frame measuring over 400x330x240mm in size
- GRBL control software
Pros
- The accuracy of the milling process is excellent
- The frame is designed in a way to reduce the vibrations
- The control board has a centralized design to connect every component
Cons
- It does not have an automatic coolant feature
2. MYSWEETY PCB Milling Machine
MYSWEETY focuses on producing high-quality milling machines and their accessories. Its product range varies between compact and extra-large units, suiting the needs of every segment.
The MYSWEETY 2 in 1 5500mW CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine belongs to the extra large category. For accurate control over the tool speed, it uses the 775 spindle motor. This unit also gets a 5.5W laser module for engraving PCBs. with an output current of 3A, the spindle can run at a maximum speed of 8,000 RPM. The laser module engraved the PCB pathways with 450 nm wavelength to achieve the highest accuracy.
For the PCB milling process, it offers a larger effective engraving area of 300x180x45mm. The 1 GB capacity offline controller is the highlight feature of this unit. If you are having trouble connecting the machine with a computer, this offline controller will get your job done. Apart from this, the GRBL control software can be used with all versions of Windows OS.
Best Features
- A 12-36V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 8,000 RPM
- A dedicated 5.5W laser module for engraving
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10
- Output current of 3A
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Overall profile measuring over 400x330x240mm in size
- GRBL control software
- Offline controller with 1 GB capacity
Pros
- This 2 1 unit offers both milling and engraving on a wide range of materials
- It comes with a 12-month warranty
- The 450 nm wavelength of the laser module offers maximum penetration and creates a non-tapered profile on the PCB
Cons
- The laser module is not suitable for engraving on thick workpieces
3. Titoe 2 in 1 20W PCB Milling Machine
Serving the manufacturing industry, Titoe has used its knowledge to develop cutting-edge CNC machines. The milling machines are part of this product range, which offers impressive accuracy.
The 2 in 1 20W CNC 3018 Engraving Machine is a high-capacity unit. It features a 20W laser module to engrave PCB layouts with a wavelength of 450 nm. The spindle uses a 775 motor with a 24V power supply. The output current goes up to 3A, enabling the motor to run at a speed of 10,000 RPM. You can mill or engrave a large number of PCBs thanks to an effective engraving area of 300x180x45mm.
This unit has a sturdy base and frame, both made of aluminium. To control input, it uses multiple software like Candle. All the available software is compatible with various versions of Windows OS. It also offers manual control over the process with the offline controller. To handle the heat created by the laser module, the unit uses built-in cooling fans.
Best Features
- A 24V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- A dedicated 20W laser module for engraving
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10
- Output current of 3A
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Features aluminium base and aluminium frame
- Supports software like Candle, Easal, Lightburn, and LaserGRBL
- Offline controller for manual input
Pros
- This machine offers the most powerful laser module on the list
- It assured unmatched reliability with 10,000 hours of service life
- It supports a wide range of input software
Cons
- Clamping of small workpieces is complex
4. Titoe 2 in 1 7000mW PCB Milling Machine
The previous model from Titoe is a high-capacity unit. Since Titoe offers milling machines for every type of application, the following model is a medium-capacity unit.
The 2 1 7000mW CNC 3018 Pro Engraver Machine features a low-power laser module, compared to its sibling. The 7W laser module is still capable of engraving accurate layouts of PCB with the highest precision. The milling tool is mated to a 775 spindle motor mounted on a sturdy frame. With an output current of 3A, the spindle can rotate at a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM. It also features an updated control board for offline control.
You can comfortably load larger copper plates in the effective engraving area of 300x180x45mm. The GRBL control and MasterCam software comfortably run on Windows operating systems. The frame uses a blend of Aluminium, PF, and ABS material for rigidity and vibration damping.
Best Features
- A 24V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- A dedicated 7W laser module for engraving
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10
- Output current of 3A
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Rigid frame made up of Aluminium
- GRBL control and MasterCam software
Pros
- It is suitable for medium-level laser engraving of PCB
- The machined or engraved surface maintains a straight profile
- The machine comes with various spare components
Cons
- It is not compatible with Linux or Mac operating systems
5. FoxAlien PCB Milling Machine
FoxAlien, renowned for advanced CNC technology, introduces the FoxAlien CNC Router Machine 4040-XE, perfect for both hobbyists and professionals.
This machine boasts a powerful 300W spindle and NEMA23 stepper motors, ensuring high efficiency in engraving, cutting, and drilling a variety of materials like wood, metal, and acrylic.It features a user-friendly design with an integrated control box, emergency stop, and a 2.4” touchscreen LCD for offline control. The 15.75”x15.75”x2.56” working area accommodates diverse project sizes.
Easy assembly, clear wire labeling, and drag chain organization streamline setup. Compatible with GRBL-control software, it’s ideal for a range of creative and commercial applications.
Best Features
- A 110V 300 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, Linux and macOS
- Output current of 10A
- Effective engraving area measures over 400x400x55mm
- Aluminium frame measuring over 760x620x360mm in size
- GRBL control software for line commands
Pros
- Easy to assemble, mostly preassembled.
- Solid construction, effective Z-probe.
- Responsive customer support.
- Suitable for beginners in CNC routing.
Cons
- Design issues with Z-axis stop switches.
- Limited functionality for deeper cuts/larger projects.
- Some inconsistencies in the Y-axis track movement.
6. VEVOR PCB Milling Machine
VEVOR is known for its cost-effective products in the equipment industry. It focuses on improving the product’s quality while maintaining a suitable price for the masses.
The VEVOR CNC 3018-PRO Router Machine is designed for the budget segment. This milling machine uses a 775 DC 24V spindle motor for improved efficiency. With an output current of 5A, this motor can achieve a rotational speed of 10,000 RPM. Apart from this, it also uses a three-stepper motor for precise travel of 0.08 mm in all axes. It has a larger aluminium frame measuring 380x330x280mm in size.
The effective working area of 300x180x45mm helps in achieving mass production of PCBs. For computer-aided control, it uses GRBL control software. This software can be used on operating systems like Windows, Linux, and MacOS. Manual adjustment of the milling machine is possible via an updated control board.
Best Features
- A 24V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10, Linux, and macOS
- Output current of 5A
- A total of 3 stepper motors
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Aluminium frame measuring over 380x330x280mm in size
- Supports GRBL control software
Pros
- It is the most aggressively priced unit on the list
- It offers the highest precision of 0.08mm in the X-Y-Z axes
- This milling machine is compatible with a wide range of operating systems
Cons
- Installation and assembly of the machine is a bit complex
7. CNCTOPBAOS PCB Milling Machine
CNCTOPBAOS offers high-quality products like mini CNC routers, professional CNC controllers, and various types of motors. Each product is tailored for efficiency with aggressive pricing.
The CNCTOPBAOS CNC 3018 Pro Max is one of the value-for-money milling machines. It uses the 775 spindle motor working on a 24V power supply. With a maximum output current of 5A, higher rotational speed of 10,000 RPM is achieved. It also supports upgrades like a 20,000 RPM spindle and 0.5W to 20W engraving module. The 1.3A stepper motor adds the required precision to the tool travel.
The effective working area measures 300x180x45mm, providing enough space for multiple PCB milling. The GRBL software is offered in a 4GB flash drive to install it on Windows or Linux operating systems. The aluminum frame has a size of 420x350x270mm, which easily fits in a room. It also uses shields on both sides, to prevent the waste material from splashing.
Best Features
- A 24V 775 spindle motor with a maximum speed of 10,000 RPM
- Compatible with Windows XP, 7, 8, 10 and Linux OS
- Output current of 5A
- A total of 3×1.3A stepper motor
- Effective engraving area measures over 300x180x45mm
- Aluminium frame measuring over 420x350x270mm in size
- GRBL control software with 4GB flash drive
Pros
- It supports upgradation to a 20,000 RPM spindle and 0.5-20W laser module
- It promotes the safety of users by offering shields on both sides of the working area
- It offers competitive features at aggressive pricing
Cons
- This milling machine is not compatible with Mac operating systems
Buying Guide For The Best PCB Milling Machine
Milling machines have revolutionized the way of manufacturing PCBs. These machines offer full control over the material removal process, to assure zero defect on the PCB. The regular milling machines can be used for milling the PCBs by simply adding a program. We have already gone through the list of the best PCB milling machines. With this buying guide, we will try to simplify your selection process by discussing some of the governing factors.
1. Spindle Motor Specifications
The spindle motor is an essential component of the PCB milling machine. It has the responsibility of offering a rotational motion to the milling tool. Various specifications of the spindle motor govern its rotational motion. The 775 motor is used for PCB milling machines due to its efficiency and precise control. The voltage of a motor tells us how much power it needs to run properly. Being a DC motor, it has a voltage range of 24 to 36V. Apart from this, this motor also offers adjustable speeds ranging between 0 to 10,000 RPM. The control over rotational speed is essential for removing the material. The motor’s wattage is concerned with its power consumption.
2. Compatible OS
As discussed earlier, the PCB milling machines have dedicated software. This software helps in simplifying the input related to the milling process. The software includes several settings like feed rate, spindle rotation, X-Y-Z axis feed, coolant flow, etc. To efficiently run the software, the connected computer must have a compatible operating system. Operating systems offer a platform for accessing features of the software. The PCB milling software is compatible with various versions of Windows operating systems including XP, 7, 8, and 10. They are also compatible with various versions of MAC operating systems.
3. Output Current
The output current is supplied to the various components of the milling machine, including the spindle motor. These components must receive a stable and sufficient amount of power for precise milling. Output current thereby becomes a critical factor while selecting the PCB milling machine. The spindle motor requires a higher current to rotate the milling tool at higher speeds. The higher tool speed helps in achieving a finished surface with continuous removal of waste material (burr). However, the output current must remain under the permissible limit of the components. If it goes beyond the limit, problems like overspeed, heating, etc. arise. As a result, the output current usually lies between 1.3 to 5.6 A for PCB milling machines.
4. Effective Engraving Area
The engraving area is the actual work area for the milling machine’s tool. Within this area, the milling tool can move in all axes (X-Y-Z) for the engraving or milling process. It helps in determining the extreme point of travel for the milling tool. It helps in determining the clamping position of the workpiece. Effective engraving area is also considered while coding the milling program. A standard size of 300x180x45 mm is maintained in all the PCB machines. The tool travels 300 mm in the X-axis, 180 mm in the Y-axis, and 45 mm in the Z-axis. Effective engraving area helps in selecting the size of raw material size. A larger area of the workpiece allows the milling of multiple PCBs in each loading.
5. Frame Size
The frame of a PCB milling machine is crucial for the assembly of all components. It works as the load-bearing member for the machine, supporting components like the milling head. The milling head itself has a spindle motor, stepper motor, tool assembly, and other components. To prevent the bending of the frame, it is made up of strong materials like aluminium or steel. The frame size for a PCB machine lies between 400x330x240 mm to 420x350x27 mm. Backing materials like bakelite, polypropare, rubber, etc. are used to dampen the vibrations. The frame size is calculated by keeping the effective engraving area in mind.
PCB Milling Machines – FAQs
Ans: Almost every PCB milling machine has a user-friendly design. For beginners, a prior understanding of the milling machine’s switches, movement, etc. is enough. Since these machines are connected to a computer, the beginner should also be aware of the input commands.
Ans: It is common for PCB milling machines to be priced higher since they are complex units. Even if the pricing varies from model to model, it does not mean that affordable units do not exist. The low-end version of PCB milling machines with less power, small size, and smaller engraving area are available at cheaper price tags.
Ans: The PCB milling machines can handle double-sided PCBs. To achieve this, it uses a set of clamps and fixtures to secure the PCBs at their place. It keeps one side of the PCB safe from distortion while the other side is being milled.
Ans: Decoding on the layout of the PCB, the milling time changes. If a complex layout is being printed, it takes hours for the milling machine to complete it. By controlling parameters like spindle speed and feed rate, the milling time can be reduced.
Ans: The majority of the PCB milling machines offer safer options. However, it is still recommended to wear protective gear like safety goggles and earplugs. If the milling process is generating a lot of metallic dust, a safety mask should be used. Apart from this, if the milling machine has a safety door, keep it closed when the machine is running.
Conclusion
The PCB milling machines have simplified the way of manufacturing PCBs at a mass-production level. These units are user-friendly which helps beginners as well as professionals in operating the machine. The high precision of the milling tool helps in creating an accurate copy of the PCB blueprint. This article presents you with the best PCB milling machines along with their features. The buying guide and FAQ section further assist your selection process by focussing on governing factors. With this discussion, we have chosen our favourite units from this list.
- Want a powerful milling machine with multiple modes of manufacturing? The Titoe 2 in 1 20W PCB Milling Machine is an ideal choice. It uses a 20W laser module with a 450 nm wavelength to engrave PCB layouts. The 24V 775 spindle motor and an output current of 3A, help in achieving 10,000 RPM speed. With an effective working area of 300x180x45mm, this machine allows you to mill or engrave multiple PCBs. The robust aluminium base and frame ensure stability and durability. Input control is done by multiple software like Candle, with the help of the Windows operating system. It also offers manual control through an offline controller. The built-in cooling fans offer heat management for the laser module.
- PCB milling at a limited budget is done by the aggressively priced VEVOR PCB Milling Machine. It is equipped with a 775 DC 24V spindle motor and offers a higher output current of 5A. As a result, a tool speed of 10,000 RPM can be achieved. It uses 3 stepper motors to get a precise movement of 0.08 mm across all axes. The aluminium frame measures over 380x330x280mm while the effective working area spans 300x180x45mm. The GRBL software offers computer-aided control over milling on Windows, Linux, and MacOS platforms. It also offers manual adjustments in the milling process with the help of a control board.
- To get the most out of your investment, the CNCTOPBAOS PCB Milling Machine stands out as a value-for-money choice. It uses a 24V 775 spindle motor with a 5A output current, to achieve a rotational speed of 10,000 RPM. A set of 3×1.3A stepper motors offers precision in movement. The 300x180x45mm size of the working area is suitable for mass production. A 4GB flash drive includes GRBL software, compatible with Windows or Linux operating systems. The 420x350x270mm size aluminium frame is ideal for smaller rooms. The machine is also equipped with protective shields on both sides, to prevent waste material from flying around. You can also upgrade the machine with a 20,000 RPM spindle and 0.5W to 20W laser module.
