Key Takeaways
1. The Makera Z1 desktop CNC has exceeded its Kickstarter funding goal of $99,973, raising over $5 million with 28 days left.
2. The Z1 is marketed as beginner-friendly but can also machine non-ferrous metals like copper, bronze, and aluminum, with caution advised for harder metals like steel and titanium.
3. A demonstration video showcases the machining of titanium at 13,000 RPM, emphasizing safety measures during the process.
4. The new AeroDust system improves cooling and chip management without needing an external air source, unlike previous models.
5. The Z1 features a quick-tool changer and built-in camera, with Kickstarter pricing starting at $899 and a retail price of $1,199 set for January 2026.
We recently discussed the Makera Z1 desktop CNC and its Kickstarter debut, which has already surpassed its funding target of $99,973, amassing over $5 million in pledges with 28 days remaining. Although Makera promotes the Z1 as a beginner-friendly CNC machine, they assert that this compact device can machine certain non-ferrous metals, like copper, bronze, and aluminum, provided it’s done with care. While the company states that steel and titanium can also be machined on the Z1, there are concerns about how well an aluminum-constructed CNC will handle harder metals. Makera seems keen to address these concerns in their latest YouTube video.
Titanium Cutting Demonstration
It’s not clear which titanium alloy is showcased in Makera’s demonstration, but they are using a range of titanium bits in a 1/4-inch collet, spinning the spindle at its peak speed of 13,000 RPM. In some sections of the video, the cutting speeds appear to be quite brisk, especially during the roughing phase. However, Makera still advises taking special safety measures and closely monitoring the milling process when working with titanium.
The AeroDust System
What’s particularly fascinating about this experiment is that Makera seemingly isn’t utilizing any external cooling during the machining, instead relying solely on the new AeroDust system to manage chips and keep both the tool and workpiece cool. This dust collection and cooling method represents an improvement over the $2,199.99 Carvera Air desktop CNC, which necessitates an external air source and vacuum for effective chip removal and cooling.
While it’s difficult to assess the precision of the component shown in Makera’s video, at the conclusion, the company highlights a finished part that appears to be a straightforward part clamp for the CNC machine itself, with a surface finish and edges that look satisfactory.
Specifications and Pricing
The Kickstarter page for the Makera Z1 refrains from making bold claims about milling intricate steel and aluminum components, instead noting that these metals should only be used for “light-duty milling.” The Z1 is equipped with Nema 17 stepper motors, linear rails, and a high-torque spindle capable of running at 13,000 RPM. It also features a quick-tool changer and a built-in camera for easy operation and remote monitoring. Currently, the Kickstarter campaign offers the Z1 CNC starting at $899, with the official retail price set to be $1,199 upon its launch in January 2026.
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