When I first came across the original Carvera, I was immediately intrigued by its advanced features, such as the automatic tool changer, larger workspace, and integrated vacuum system. However, the steep price of over $5,000 made me hesitant—it felt like too big of a risk for a tool I wasn’t certain would pay off in my workflow.

The introduction of the Carvera Air, with a significantly lower price point, changed the game for me. While it sacrifices some premium features, it delivers on the core capabilities I’ve always wanted in a CNC machine, making it a much more appealing choice.

Below are the key pros and cons I considered when deciding whether the Carvera Air was worth the investment.

• Pros:
  • Affordable price compared to the original Carvera.
  • Compact and fully enclosed design minimizes mess and noise.
  • Supports a variety of materials, including wood, plastics, aluminum, and even steel (with limitations).
  • Optional 4th-axis machining adds versatility for complex projects.
  • Includes support for popular CAM software like Fusion 360 and VCarve, as well as the upcoming MakeraCAM.
• Cons:
  • Smaller bed size (11.8in x 7.9in x 5.1in) may limit certain projects.
  • No automatic tool changer—relies on a quick manual tool changer.
  • External dust collection system required for optimal use.
  • Still a significant investment, even at a lower price point.

Ultimately, the Carvera Air delivers on everything I would want in a compact CNC machine at a more appealing price point. While the small bed size remains a concern, I believe it has the potential to enhance my workflow and open up new creative possibilities.

One exciting project I’d love to tackle with the Carvera Air is machining custom parts for my virtual pinball machine. Having a CNC machine like this could streamline the process of crafting precise brackets, panels, or decorative features like game themed toppers. Working in conjunction with my xTool P2 Laser, the personal use value is there but I need to make this work professionally. Stay tuned to see how that works out for me. 

Below is a detailed comparison between the Carvera and the Carvera Air to help you make an informed decision.

As I explored the market for a desktop CNC machine, the Carvera Air and Nomad 3 stood out as strong contenders. Both machines offer compact designs, full enclosures, and reliable performance for a variety of materials. However, the Carvera Air's larger workspace, optional 4th-axis capability, and quick tool changer give it a versatility edge, while the Nomad 3 remains a solid choice for those prioritizing simplicity and proven reliability.

After carefully evaluating their features, strengths, and price points, I created a detailed comparison chart to highlight the differences between these two popular machines. This chart, located below, provides a clear side-by-side view to help you decide which CNC is the best fit for your needs.

The Carvera Air is a compact and versatile CNC machine designed for hobbyists and professionals alike. It features a quick tool changer, smaller bed size than the original Carvera, and optional add-ons like a laser module. Ideal for machining wood, plastics, and soft metals such as aluminum, it combines ease of use with powerful functionality.

The Carvera Air offers a cutting capacity of 11.8in x 7.9in x 5.1in (300mm x 200mm x 130mm) for 3-axis machining. For 4-axis machining, it supports materials up to 3.6in in diameter and 7.9in in length (92mm x 200mm). This bed size makes it ideal for small to medium projects.

The Carvera Air outshines the Nomad 3 in several areas, including a larger workspace (11.8in x 7.9in x 5.1in vs. 8in x 8in x 3in), an optional 4th-axis for advanced machining, and a quick tool changer. While the Nomad 3 is known for its reliability, the Carvera Air's versatility makes it a strong choice for intricate projects.

The Carvera Air can handle a variety of materials, including wood, plastics, aluminum, and brass. It is also capable of machining steel at slower feed rates but is optimized for softer materials.

The Carvera Air supports popular CAM software like Fusion 360 and VCarve. Additionally, MakeraCAM, a proprietary software, supports 2D, 3D relief, laser, and PCB projects, making it an excellent choice for diverse machining needs.

The Carvera Air comes with a 1/8-inch collet and includes free milling bits. It also supports 1/4-inch, 6mm, and 4mm bits with optional collets, offering exceptional versatility for different project requirements.

The Carvera Air operates on 100-120VAC or 200-240VAC @ 50/60Hz with a maximum input power of 400 watts.

After carefully weighing the pros and cons, comparing it to the Nomad 3, and considering my creative needs, I decided to order the Carvera Air. Its larger workspace, quick tool changer, and optional 4th-axis capabilities make it an excellent choice for hobbyists like me. At its price point, it strikes a balance between functionality and affordability, making it a compelling addition to my workflow.

As a hobbyist, the Carvera Air fits my needs perfectly. For professionals or makers needing to cut large sheets of plywood, a CNC with a larger bed capacity might be more suitable. For instance, MakerMade offers products like their MakerMade M2 CNC, which is designed for cutting larger materials. However, I don't think the Carvera Air and MakerMade's offerings are directly comparable—they serve different niches.

While the smaller bed size and manual tool changes were initial concerns, the Carvera Air's versatility and potential to expand my creative projects outweighed these drawbacks. I’m especially excited to see how it will streamline projects like machining parts for my virtual pinball machine.

Stay tuned as I update this page with my hands-on experience and findings after receiving the Carvera Air. I look forward to sharing whether this compact CNC machine truly lives up to its promises and how it enhances my creative workflow.