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CNC & laser cutting vs Robotics

CNC & laser cutting and robotics have 91% in common. Here is how they differ on time, cost and feel, so you can pick the one that fits your week.

WhatCNC & laser cuttingRobotics
Time a week3 hours a week4 hours a week
Who withOn your ownOn your own
You end up withSomething you madeSomething you made
FeelsLivelyLively
To start$300$100

Choose CNC & laser cutting if

  • Costs more to start
  • More useful day to day
  • Quicker first wins

About $300 to start, then about $30 a month.

About CNC & laser cutting

Choose robotics if

  • Cheaper to start
  • Less about being useful
  • Slower to reward you

About $100 to start, then about $20 a month.

About robotics

What you'll need

  • CNC & laser cutting: Ventilation and Smoke Purifier, Laser Engraver, Makerspace visit Full cost breakdown
  • Robotics: Single-Board Computer, Robotics Starter Kit, Multimeter Full cost breakdown

Compare something else

Any two of the 396. You get the time each takes, what it costs to start, who you need and what you end up with.