– Makera Z1 is available for pre-order at $1,099 (basic version), with delivery starting in July.
– Software is still in closed beta; users currently need separate CAM and controller software.
– Working area is 200x200x100mm, with 150W spindle and optional rotary axis and laser module.
– Can process plastic, carbon fiber, wood, and aluminum, but requires optional laser and dust extraction add-ons.
– As a subtractive CNC machine, it uses more material and generates waste compared to 3D printing or laser cutting.
Makera Z1 pre-order details
We’ve previously reported on the Makera Z1, which is now officially available for pre-order. The starting price is $1,099. Pre-orders placed by June 30 will also recieve a few small gifts, and delivery is scheduled for July. For $1,099, pre-order customers will recieve only the basic version, not the Pro version. The laser module and a dust extraction system are available for a surcharge. We are already testing the CNC machine and can at least say that the device exists, the build quality is quite decent, and the control system works in principle.
Software and control nuances
Speaking of controls, the Makera Studio software is intended to enable particularly simple control, but is currently still in the closed beta phase. At presnt, the use of CAM software and controller software is still required. Since Makera aims to make the Z1’s powerful features accessible to beginners, we cannot yet adequately evaluate the system. There will also be a platform for sharing projects via Makerables, a universal project-sharing platform and digital community where creators can collaborate, share design files and download ready-to-cut templates.
Technical specifications and work area
The Makera Z1 offers a working area of 200 x 200 x 100 millimeters. Machining via a rotary axis is available as an option. The specified spindle power is 150 watts, with a maximum speed of 13,000 revolutions per minute. According to the manufacturer, the machine can process not only plastic, carbon fiber and wood, but also aluminum. A laser module is also available as an option. Compared to a 3D printer, a CNC machine can, in the best-case scenario, produce parts capable of withstanding very high loads. Compared to a laser cutter, the depth of a component is not quite as much of a limiting factor.
Cost considerations and manufacturing processes
On the other hand, the costs for consumables are likely to be higher compared to a 3D printer, since a 3D printer only extrudes approximately as much (inexpensive) filament as is required for the model. The processes of drilling, milling and turning performed on CNC machines are subtractive manufacturing processes, meaning that material is removed from a blank. When using semi-finished products, a considerable amount of metal waste can accumulate quite quickly, depending on the dimensions of the model and the semi-finished product.
- Starting price: $1,099
- Working area: 200 x 200 x 100 mm
- Spindle power: 150 watts
- Max speed: 13,000 RPM
- Materials: plastic, carbon fiber, wood, aluminum
- Rotary axis optional
- Laser module optional
- Pre-order deadline: June 30
- Delivery: July