Carvera Desktop CNC-machine

Let me kick things off clearly: The Carvera CNC is probably the single biggest purchase I've made in my maker journey. At over $5000 USD, expectations were sky-high, and hardware-wise, it's genuinely impressive. So yeah, I'm not exactly planning on ditching this thing anytime soon.

The Good Stuff:

Beautiful and Robust Hardware: Seriously sleek design, solid build quality, nice lighting—it's a genuinely elegant addition to my workspace.

Super Quiet Operation: Noise? Honestly impressive how quietly this thing runs. I can have it running right behind me in my office and be completely unbothered. Leave the room and close the door? It's barely audible over my condo's hvac unit.

Parts Quality: The sample projects I've tackled so far turned out great. It's clearly precise and reliable with the materials I've tried.

What Could Be Better:

Long Delivery Time: Took over 80 days to get here—longer than the 1–2 month shipping window listed in their FAQ at the time.

Underwhelming Software: The Carvera Controller software is unintuitive and frustrating. File management is unreliable and restrictive. I can't simultaneously access the machine from multiple devices, so I'm stuck awkwardly juggling between my PC and tablet. Not exactly seamless. Plus, no clear indication if I need to keep the controller app open on my PC while milling, and I really don't want to risk wasting material to test that out myself.

Makera CAM Software: It shows potential, but it's still very rough around the edges. They provided neat example G-code, sure, but where are the actual source files or example projects to learn from? I shouldn't have to blindly fumble through it to process my own designs.

Documentation & Support: They've got plenty of YouTube guides, which sounds great until you realize they're all long (20–40 mins), and good luck if you're just trying to quickly find one specific function or setting. The official wiki and documentation is minimal and scattered, and having to dig through Discord server conversations just to piece together critical information is frankly a mess.

Hardware Setup Frustrations:
Despite their video guides stating that newer C1R serial-numbered units would come pre-configured, I received an older C1 version (in 2025), meaning I had to manually disassemble the back of this 100+ lb behemoth myself to install the wiring conversion kit for the 4th-axis harmonic drive module. Finding out I had to do this after I’d already painstakingly set the thing up in a tight office space? Not fun.

Room for Hardware Improvements:
While the machine is awesome in general, the built-in The vacuum could definitely use a power boost; Stronger dust management would be welcome. Honestly, I’m hesitant to even try milling carbon fiber sheets, which is frustrating since I specifically want to make drone parts, and this machine was advertised as capable of doing just that. Carbon fiber isn’t just messy, it’s dangerous, releasing fine conductive dust and airborne particles that can irritate lungs and cause long-term health issues. Maybe it can be done safely, but no official guide or safety documentation was provided, which makes it feel unnecessarily risky especially for someone new to machining like me.

I'd also love to see a spindle upgrade eventually, something beefier so it can reliably handle tougher materials, especially since I'm hearing aluminum milling can be hit-or-miss depending on the alloy and settings. (For the record, the aluminum samples included worked fine for me so far, but tougher metals like steel seem like they'd push the machine beyond its comfort zone.)

The built-in 2.5W diode laser is a cool addition, but it feels more like a novelty than a workhorse tool. It works, but its utility is limited, and I really wish it had more power or functionality to be genuinely useful.

Bottom Line:
Am I still excited? Absolutely.
Am I also a bit disappointed and cautious? Yeah, that too.

The Carvera is a powerful, well-engineered piece of hardware that clearly has the bones of a great machine. It's quiet, precise, and beautifully built. It's a seriously premium desktop CNC. But right now, it feels like it's being held back by immature software, inconsistent documentation, and some onboarding missteps that shouldn’t exist at this price point.

That said, I don’t regret buying it. I’m making good parts, learning more every day, and genuinely hopeful that the ecosystem will grow into something more refined, especially with how active the community already is. If the software catches up with the hardware, this thing will be unstoppable.

Final Rating: 4/5.
The hardware earns it. The potential keeps it there. And the community makes me believe the rest can improve.

I love my Carvera, solid purchase, a great learning tool and fun/useful for projects, I've made some really great stuff and have learned a ton. Makera recently open sourced the firmware so there should be lots of community based features to come (Thanks Fae!) I just wish the controller were open source as it would allow us to realize the full potential of this machine! I've updated my review to reflect my current feelings regarding this machine and the Makera team as a whole. If they would just open source the controller or at least allow a few hard working, highly skilled and motivated individuals to join in on the development (Fae Corrigan) that would be fantastic! Get fae on board and I'll gladly upgrade my review to 5 stars. She's done some amazing work and is working on some incredible upgrades for this machine, if only she could help develop the controller to fully implement her ideas. Fae has a vision but is unable at this point to (easily) completely realize her dreams and we may need to use a third party controller in order to unlock the full potential of this wonderful little desktop CNC. I'm not an engineer of any kind but I recognize extraordinary talent and drive when I see it. Either open source the controller (option #1) or give her the ability to build the controller and issue pull requests (option #2). I understand the desire to protect your intellectual property and that's why I suggest the second option.Thank you to the entire Makera team for your hard work and dedication!

The below is an earlier review prior to the release of a build-able open source firmware:

This machine is incredible, had some issues at first but they were not the fault of makera or the carvera support team. I was setting up via USB and the USB keeps the mcu powered during reboots so firmware updates weren't being implemented. Roeloff was super patient and helpful and convinced me we could solve the problem when I was ready to return it. I absolutely love this machine but the lack of open source software/firmware is killing it's potential. There are tons of carvera users who are extremely gifted and would love to help this little machine grow into the beast it was meant to be. The carvera team is amazing but Like Fae said, if it were open source many of us would test and help iron out bugs and develop new/better features before it is released en mass. I would love to give the carvera 5 stars but will also be withholding until some of the issues are resolved. The machine is usable as is, incredible really, but the community can and would accelerate the software development exponentially. I'll give 2 stars as I'm not a coder and can't personally develop for the platform but will gladly update to 5 the minute you open source the controller/firmware as Fae suggested.

Shipping and Unboxing:
The Carvera arrived securely packaged, a testament to the attention given to shipping. Despite its journey from China, the machine reached my workshop in a reasonable 2.5 weeks. The unboxing experience was smooth, and the partially pre-assembled components made setup hassle-free.

Out-of-the-Box Performance:
The Carvera lives up to its promise of plug-and-play functionality. The provided examples worked seamlessly, allowing me to dive into projects without delay. Whether you’re a seasoned CNC user or a beginner, the Carvera’s straightforward assembly process ensures a positive initial experience.

Customization and Bit Collar Size:
One standout feature is the ability to adjust the bit collar size. This adaptability caters to diverse machining needs. Whether you’re engraving intricate designs or tackling robust cuts, the Carvera accommodates various bit dimensions. However, a word of caution: the inserts for auto tool changing are not supplied in larger sizes, so plan accordingly. (Make sure to check that all tools are in the correct slots because I have already melted a bit collar by accident because the tool was too short. [this was on me not Makera])

The Fourth Axis: Unlocking Creativity:
The inclusion of a fourth axis elevates the Carvera’s capabilities. With rotary functionality, you can venture beyond traditional 3-axis machining. The fourth axis opens doors to creative exploration. It is well built but is only driven by a weaker nema stepper motor.

Effective Vacuum System:
The built-in vacuum system keeps your workspace tidy, efficiently collecting debris during machining. However, if your projects involve metal chips, consider connecting a larger shop vac to the integrated external pipe at the back.

User-Friendly Control Software and Estop:
Navigating the Carvera’s control software is a pleasure. The well-designed interface simplifies job setup, design import, and execution. Whether you’re adjusting feed rates or fine-tuning parameters, the software streamlines the process. The E-stop immediately halts the machine, but one downside is that it loosely lays around. It is not secured to the machine, so it may not be immediately findable. We velcroed it to the table that the machine is sitting on so it doesn't move. The cable for the e-stop has a screw for it so you cannot just accidently yank it out.

Clear Documentation in Fluent English:
I appreciate that Makera provides all instructions in fluent English. The manual covers assembly, operation, and troubleshooting concisely. Whether you’re deciphering advanced features or seeking clarity, the language barrier won’t hinder your progress.

Conclusion:
In summary, the Makera Carvera CNC Machine seamlessly blends reliability, customization, and creative potential. From hobbyists to professionals, this compact powerhouse delivers with great accuracy.

Ive been a Machinist for the last decade and a half or so, and an engineer for a few years; running every machine from small chucker lathes, to million dollar 5 axis machines with pallet changers; this machine is the Truth; it is top notch in its field.

The tool changer makes running longer parts effortless, no more hand changing tools which is a game changer; ill never go back.
The Z probe is fantastic, for leveling or just using the laser on it to quick pickup parts, makes changing from job to job a breeze.
The Spindle leaves just a tiny bit to be desired, but paired with the right speeds and feeds will remove material all the way up to its max feed of 4000mm/min which is crazy!
the vaccume is an excellent addition and makes cleanup a breeze, and if you dont have quite enough suction to get big chips theres a port on the back tat makes light work with a traditional shop vac.

The first thing i noticed when i opened the machine was everything, down to the last screw is carefully thought out and buttoned up with precision, nothing looks mismatched and the body of the machine flows together beautifully with no seams abnormally large or pieces pressed together too tight; and ran perfect right out of the box, with a little help from support to get me connected.

Speaaking of support; they are UNBELIEVABLE; not once have i had a question go unanswered; Between Roelof and Josh there is no part they cant fix or problem they cant solve, i have yet to have my machine be down for a full day; and i run it for atleast 3 hours every single day, most of the time 5-6. putting nearly 1000 hours on it in just the short while ive owned it. you will not be disappointed in the support you recieve, or the community around this machine.

The first part i made off the machine, programmed right to size, cut right to within .0005 of everything i programmed, which is beyond anything i thought i would getout of a machine for this price!

All in all This machine not only is the top of its class, it is in a class of its own, and as it develops it will only continue to get better; every update makes the machine substantially more user friendly, makes the UI more intuitive, and all in all makes the experience better and i look forward to the future of this machine!

This will definitely not be my only carvera, i can see atleast one more in my shop, Between the footprint, the cabability, the quiet factor, and just the looks of the machine, it is a welcome addition to any shop!

1000% reccommend this machine.

I received machine as a pledge for support on kickstarter. Makera regularly and frankly provided updates of production and shipment progress.

The machine looks great and works very well. So far I used it for 3 axis machining and PCB fabrication (4 axis, thread milling and laser module are in que). Performance is great, use of different bit diameters/collets very easy.
Build-in vaccuum works very well (if properly set shoe).

Some suggestions to MAKERA:
* please update user guide/specs
- details like maximal pressure of air
- positions of holes and threads on base plate (to allow design of fixtures)
* please consider update SW to allow two contemporary connections over wifi and/or USB connection using android (enabling upload of new files from remote computer and direct control at tablet at machine not jumping to disconnect at remote site)
- please verify/fix laser indication of work area - works well only when the probe is just picked from parking position. When probe is already in collet at start of job (e.g. after stopped job for improve fixing), the laser (in probe) is not turned on

I prepared some 3D printed organizers for accessories, hoping may help others - published on printables.com
https://www.printables.com/@PaSe/collections/560870

Thank you for your effort, I'm looking forward for Wiki and CAM SW