How To Choose CNC Router: 4 Axis CNC Router VS 5 Axis CNC Router?

In today’s industrial engraving field, 4 axis CNC routers and 5 axis CNC routers have a wide range of applications. Their high precision and high efficiency are deeply loved by the majority of engravers. If we want to buy a CNC router from 4 axis CNC router and 5 axis CNC router, how should we choose? Knowing the following points will definitely help you find the CNC router that suits you.

What is 4 Axis CNC Router?

The 4 axis CNC router adds a rotary axis on the basis of three linear axes (X, Y, Z). The addition of this rotary axis allows the 4 axis CNC router to move in more directions. For this reason, more automated processing actions and multi-faceted processing capabilities are achieved, which is particularly suitable for occasions that require complex curved surface processing.

What is 5 Axis CNC Router?

5 axis CNC router is an advanced processing equipment, which includes three linear coordinate axes and two rotary coordinate axes. 5 axis machining technology allows the workpiece to move freely in five dimensions, thus achieving more complex and sophisticated processing needs. Therefore, it plays an important role in fields that require highly complex shapes and precise control, such as in aerospace, automotive manufacturing and construction industries.

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What Differences Between 4 Axis CNC Router and 5 Axis CNC Router?

01 Structural Differences

The 4 axis CNC router consists of three linear axes and one rotary axis. Among them, the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are three linear axes that can achieve three-dimensional motion, while the A-axis is used to achieve rotary motion.

Otomic CNC 4 Axis CNC Router
Otomic CNC 4 Axis CNC Router

In addition to the basic structure of the 4 axis CNC router, the 5 axis CNC router also adds an additional rotary axis (B-axis). The B-axis is perpendicular to the A-axis, and it can deflect the tool in the horizontal direction, thereby achieving higher precision and efficiency.

Otomic CNC 5 Axis CNC Router
Otomic CNC 5 Axis CNC Router

02 Differences in Working Methods

The tools of the 4 axis CNC router usually need to be replaced manually, and sometimes multiple tools are required to achieve multiple engraving needs. It performs well when engraving flat patterns, but is relatively cumbersome when engraving complex non-planar patterns.

Compared with the 4 axis CNC router, the 5 axis CNC router has an additional rotary axis, so it is more flexible. It can complete engraving at different angles by rotating the tool in different directions, which greatly improves the accuracy and efficiency.

03 Differences in Scope of Application

The price of the 4 axis CNC router is more affordable than that of the 5 axis CNC router, and it is suitable for small and large batch operations. It can be used for flat engraving, color engraving, relief and other processes, but it performs generally in complex three-dimensional engraving.

4 Axis CNC Router for Wood Carving
4 Axis CNC Router for Wood Carving

The 5 axis CNC router is suitable for complex three-dimensional engraving and processing. It can not only perform flat engraving, but also 3D curved surface engraving. Its working efficiency and cutting accuracy are very high. This makes the 5 axis CNC router have an incomparable advantage in complex shape processing.

5 Axis CNC Router for Foam Model Carving
5 Axis CNC Router for Foam Model Carving

04 Accuracy and Efficiency

The 5 axis CNC router provides higher processing accuracy and efficiency through its higher flexibility and wider processing capabilities. Especially when working with extremely complex parts and shapes‌. Although the 4 axis CNC router has significantly improved the processing accuracy and efficiency in daily processing, it is not as precise and efficient as the 4 axis CNC router.

05 Price

Compared with 5 axis CNC routers, 4 axis CNC routers are more economical in cost, but 5 axis CNC routers are a better choice in many cases due to their higher processing accuracy, efficiency and complexity adaptability. Therefore, although the initial investment of 5 axis CNC router may be higher, in the long run, its advantages are more obvious.

How To Choose Between a 4 Axis CNC Router and a 5 Axis CNC Router?

‌The choice of a 4 axis CNC router or 5 axis CNC router depends mainly on the specific processing needs and processing accuracy requirements. If the processing task requires high precision and complexity, and the budget is sufficient, a 5 axis CNC router is a better choice. For general three-dimensional engraving and surface processing needs, a 4 axis CNC router is an economical and practical solution. In addition, the manufacturer’s production capacity and after-sales service should also be considered.

5 axis cnc router

Superior Construction: The ATC 5 Axis Wood CNC Machine has a one-piece casting that offers great stability, rigidity, and accuracy in machining.
Convenient and Powerful: It can process multiple surfaces of a workpiece at the same time, which helps to make processing faster.
Enhanced Precision: This machine makes it easier to do five-sided machining by reducing the number of clamping needed.
Durable and Reliable: We use high-quality parts to build this machine so it lasts longer and is stronger.

Conclusion

In general, the 5 axis CNC router and the 4 axis CNC router each have their own advantages. If you need to perform high-precision 3D surface engraving or complex shape processing, then the  5 axis CNC router is your best choice. If you only need general engraving needs, then the 4 axis CNC router may be more suitable for you. Remember, no machine is the best, only the one that suits you best is the best!

Contact Us

Otomic CNC produce many kinds of 4 axis CNC router and 5 axis CNC router, The CNC routers are available in various sizes and functions, so there is always one that suits you. Of course, we can also customize the CNC router for you according to your processing needs. Please feel free to contact us.

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