Exploring the AltMill CNC: An In-Depth Review

The Altmill CNC from Sienci Labs has arrived, and it’s generating quite a buzz in the CNC community. But what makes this machine so special? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the features, assembly process, and real-world performance of the AltMill. Whether you’re a seasoned CNC user or a curious newcomer, there’s plenty to discover.

Why the Excitement?

The AltMill is positioned as a budget-friendly option in the 4x4 hobby CNC router market. At around $2,000 less than its competitors, it offers an attractive entry point for hobbyists. With a retail price of $3,678, including shipping from Canada, it’s hard to ignore the value this machine brings.

Unboxing and Assembly

Assembly of the AltMill was a straightforward process, taking approximately six hours to complete. All necessary tools were included, and the instructions were clear and well-documented, featuring step-by-step photos and even GIFs to guide users. The AltMill comes pre-equipped with drag chains, ensuring that wiring is neatly organized.

Spindle and Mounting

The machine features an 80mm spindle mount, which means users cannot directly use a Makita or similar palm router without a mount reducer. However, these reducers can be easily 3D printed or sourced online. The supplied spindle is a robust air-cooled ER 16 collet 1.5 KW 110V spindle, compatible with 1/8, 1/4, and 3/8 inch tooling.

Performance and Capabilities

The AltMill is equipped with closed-loop stepper motors and ball screws, providing reliable and accurate movement. Controlled by Sienci Labs' SuperLongBoard, the machine integrates seamlessly with gSender software, which is packed with features such as job time estimation, feed rate adjustments, and real-time rendering of cuts.

Material Compatibility

This CNC machine can handle a variety of materials, including wood, plastics, and non-ferrous metals like aluminum and brass. Although marketed as a 48x48 machine, it can actually cut up to 49 inches on both axes, with a Z travel of 5.5 inches.

Initial Challenges

Upon initial setup, I encountered some movement issues. After troubleshooting, I discovered that I had overtightened some couplers. Once corrected, the machine performed flawlessly during test cuts. My first project was a simple "Man in the Moon" design, which turned out beautifully.

Lumber Rack Project

For my second project, I attempted to cut a lumber rack. After multiple resets and troubleshooting, I realized I hadn’t installed the latest drivers for gSender. Once updated, the machine cut flawlessly, demonstrating its reliability and precision.

Likes and Dislikes

After using the AltMill, I compiled a list of strengths and weaknesses that potential buyers should consider.

What I Liked

• Cost-Effective: The AltMill offers significant savings compared to competitors.
• Assembly Instructions: Clear and comprehensive instructions made setup manageable.
• Performance: The machine cuts accurately and handles various materials effectively.
• Community Support: The CNC community is vibrant, with resources available for troubleshooting and project ideas.
• Expandable: The AltMill is designed to accommodate future upgrades and accessories.

Areas for Improvement

• Stability of Legs: The included legs are somewhat wobbly, which may concern users.
• Zeroing Process: The need to connect to a computer during operation can feel cumbersome.
• Motor Exposure: Motors and wires are exposed, raising concerns about potential damage during operation.
• Cable Management: The cables can appear messy and may benefit from better management solutions.
• Warranty Duration: A 120-day warranty may not provide enough peace of mind for some users.

Final Thoughts

The AltMill represents a solid choice for hobbyists seeking an affordable yet capable CNC machine. Its combination of features, performance, and community support make it an attractive option. However, potential buyers should weigh the pros and cons based on their specific needs and preferences.

As the CNC landscape continues to evolve, the AltMill is poised to compete with established players like the Onefinity Elite. A detailed comparison will be available soon, so stay tuned for that! If you’re considering purchasing an AltMill, you can support the channel by using the link provided in the description.

Resources and Links

For more information on the AltMill, including purchasing options, visit: AltMill 48×48 | Sienci Labs.

To enhance your Alt Mill experience, consider the AltMill Spindle and Dust Shoe Kit for improved cutting capabilities.

Additionally, the Vortex Rotary Axis can expand your machine's functionality, allowing for more complex projects.

For a complete control experience, check out the SuperLongBoard, which enhances machine performance and user experience.

Finally, if you’re looking for community support and resources, consider joining CNC WITH ME, an all-inclusive project membership to help you succeed in your CNC journey. 

Hamilton is an Affiliate of Sienci Labs. Using the links provided is a great way to support with no additional cost to you.