Bob's CNC Evolution 4
~$1,200-1,500 (last known pricing)
Pricing last checked February 2026
Our Take
Bob's CNC was a beloved player in the budget CNC market before the company shut down. The Evolution 4 represented incredible value: 24" x 24" work area for ~$1,200-1,500 when competitors charged twice that. The wood frame was polarizing, some saw it as clever cost-cutting that worked; others viewed it as a compromise. In practice, the E4 performed well for wood, plastics, and soft materials. The company's demise is a loss for the hobbyist community. Used E4 machines still circulate and are worth considering if you find one in good condition, just know that parts and support are community-based now. The E4 proved that clever design could deliver big capability on a small budget.
Bob's CNC Evolution 4 Specs
- Price
- ~$1,200-1,500 (last known pricing)
- Status
- Discontinued (company ceased operations)
- Work Area
- 24" x 24" (various Z-heights available)
- Frame
- Wood frame (Baltic birch plywood CNC-cut)
- Drive System
- Lead screw (Acme threaded rod)
- Linear Motion
- V-wheels on aluminum extrusion
- Motors
- NEMA 23 stepper motors
- Controller
- GRBL-based controller
- Spindle
- DeWalt DW611 router or similar trim router mount
- Collet
- 1/4" and 1/8" (DeWalt router collets)
- Max RPM
- 16,000-27,000 (DeWalt DW611)
- Enclosure
- None
- Assembly
- Kit, several hours assembly
- Software
- GRBL compatible (Easel, UGS, bCNC, others)
What Stands Out
- • Large 24" x 24" work area at budget price point
- • Upgradeable spindle and laser options
- • Wood frame kept costs down but provided decent rigidity
- • Strong community and company support (when active)
- • Popular among hobbyists and small business owners
- • Extension kits available for larger work areas
- • Various models: E3, E4, KL744
What the Community Says
Nostalgic affection from former owners. "Great value while it lasted" is the common refrain. Users appreciated the large work area and reasonable price. The wood frame debate continues, some loved it, others upgraded to metal. Strong DIY community formed around modifications and upgrades. The company's shutdown was met with disappointment; many users felt Bob's CNC offered the best bang-for-buck in the 2018-2023 era. Used machines are still recommended in budget forums, with the caveat about parts availability.
Free Bob's CNC Evolution 4 Feeds & Speeds Calculator
Skip the guesswork. Open our calculator with the Bob's CNC Evolution 4's specs pre-loaded and get safe starting RPM, feed rate, and depth of cut for your bit and material.
Open the Calculator →Other Machines to Consider
Guides for New Buyers
Own a Bob's CNC Evolution 4 or thinking about one?
One email a week: real owner findings, feeds and speeds that work, and new free carving files.
Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.