Carbide 3D · Open-frame router
Shapeoko 4
Carbide 3D’s belt-driven entry machine, in three sizes, with the same software and support as the Pro.
$1,800Standard size, no router. XL and XXL up to $2,400.
Work area445 × 445 mm
SpindleBring your own
DriveBelt (15 mm GT2), lead-screw Z
MetalLight aluminum, slowly
Will's take
A good machine from a great company — but belts and V-wheels are showing their age at this price.
The Shapeoko 4 is how a lot of people got into CNC, and it still works. Wide 15 mm belts, a Z-Plus lead screw, BitSetter and Carbide’s training all come in the box, and the XXL gets you a genuinely big bed for the money.
But it’s 2026. V-wheels need adjusting, belts stretch, and aluminum is a patient job on this frame. With machines like the LongMill MK3 putting linear rails on every axis for less, I’d only buy a Shapeoko 4 if I specifically wanted Carbide support and the XXL’s size.
— Will
What I like
- Carbide’s support, docs and training
- XXL size is huge for the price
- Easy upgrade path to an HDZ rail-and-ball-screw Z
What I'd watch for
- Belts and V-wheels need periodic maintenance
- Router not included
- Less rigid than rail-based rivals in aluminum
Spec sheet Carbide 3D Shapeoko 4
| Work area (X × Y × Z) | 445 × 445 × 102 mm 17.5 × 17.5 × 4.0 in |
|---|---|
| Spindle | Bring your own — 65 mm trim router |
| Drive | Belt (15 mm GT2), lead-screw Z |
| Linear motion | V-wheels |
| Frame | Aluminum extrusion |
| Enclosure | Optional |
| Tool changer | Manual |
|---|---|
| Controller | Carbide Motion (GRBL-based) |
| Software | Carbide Create + Carbide Motion |
| Metal | Light aluminum, slowly |
| Footprint | 33 × 24 in (Standard) |
| Released | 2021 |
Still confirming with Carbide 3D: assembled weight.
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