Honest Opinions: How does DWC Compare to Other CNCs?
From time to time, we give temporary access to our private DWC Facebook Owners Group (now over 1,000 members!) to people who want to ask questions before they commit to buying a CNC.
Anyone can make flashy videos and have a good looking website, but feedback from real customers is where you learn the truth about a company, its product and customer support!
Original Question
Recently, someone asked the following questions in the group…
“I am a new wood lighting manufacturer that plans to make a lot of my components from a CNC. The pieces are pretty small, so a smaller footprint CNC should be sufficient for me. I still have some questions perhaps some of you could help me with:
-Has anyone used a Shark HD5 series and can compare/contrast with the DWG?
-How has your machine held up to regularly cutting out 2” pieces of walnut for example?
-Has anyone used the 4th axis spindle?
-What do you think of the software?
-Any concerns I should be aware of?
”
Replies
The following questions and answers from customers are completely unedited and we didn’t leave any comments out. We just copied and pasted the text from the original thread.
“I looked at the shark. I ended up with the DWC. It is not just machine compared to machine. The customer service that we get is not limited by time. It is priceless.
While you can probably find good machines, you cannot find the customer service anywhere that even comes close to what DWC offers. Anything else for me would end up a boat anchor.
If you do a lot of cutting you might consider the spindle instead of the router. Almost everybody will tell you the same thing.
DWC is the only way to go.”
“I cut walnut, maple, cherry, ash, oak, mahogany, pine, cedar, alder and probably some I forgot all the time. Most all delicate pieces and multiples.
The machine handles them fine and I have had mine for about 5 years with very little maintenance. It averages 40+ hours a week.
The software is great and easy to figure out. I know you said a small foot print would be fine but if your running several pieces it is great to have a big footprint and do them all at once.
”
“I’ve had my DWC2440 since Oct and Laney has been terrific with his training and readily available for any and all questions. DWC is the only way to fly.”
“When I call my customer service “Laney” and he’s at the gym and still takes my call and walks me through my mistakes not the machines I really am impressed.
Man’s pumping iron and raising spirits at the same time!!!”
“Walnut is what I like carving the most on my 2440 this company is the best you will never find a better support with any other company I have had my machine since 2017 and they have been there for me and still are”
The DWC1824 ‘MINI’ Carver at work.
“This is just an observation and suggestions. I have the DWC 2440 and can’t say enough good things about it. While the DWC1824 may be closer in size to the HD5, it’s always been said to go with a bigger unit first, as you will always want bigger soon.
If you are cutting a lot of pieces, the 2440 will save time in being able to do more parts at a time.
From an observation standpoint the DWC appears to be a sturdier machine. It is also priced slightly lower than the HD5, and comes with the router - that you will have to buy separately with the HD5.
They both claim to come complete (which having the DWC come complete was a game changer for me, as I am very mechanically challenged, and would not be able to put together a bucket of bolts other brands come as).
One of the big things to consider is the machine reliability, software used, and most important the customer service. I’m not familiar with the controller software for the HD5, but the planet CNC controller software with the DWC models has capabilities I’ve heard others don’t (like being able to start again from same spot in case of power outage/surge - although Laney had to help me with that).
There have been other times he’s had to help with something in that software. If you are not familiar with vetric or controller software, that could be worth it’s weight in gold, as it has been for me. Laney team viewed in to both my laptop and desktop computer and set up the Vetric and controller software. He has team viewed many times to show me exactly how to do something.
24 hours a day 6 days a week. 2 hour one on one session to get you going. 2 hour training classes on Tuesday evenings, plus the owners only page on FB for even more help. All lifetime free for owners. I doubt you will find that level of customer service anywhere else.”
Project made with the DWC2440. Watch the video timelapse.
“I’ll echo what everyone else has said. You won’t find better customer service. I’ve had my 2440 over 5 years, It is my 3rd CNC and easily the best that I have owned.
I did have to replace one belt a few years ago.
To cut 2” thick Walnut, you will probably want to raise your gantry with a kit that they sell. It raises it 2” and the cost is minimal.
I use Vectric V-Carve Pro and it does everything I need. I think that it will easily fill your needs and then some. Good luck with your business.”
“I’ve had mine machine for around 4 years now. bought it used. from my wifes boss.
Had some issues with it. while loading it, i rolled it over the cable from the pendant to the gecko box. after a quick call to Laney and then to Burl. Burl told me to mail him the pendant and a new cable i got off amazon. he fixed it up and shipped it back (i paid shipping both ways) for free.
I’ve been a salesman, and what matters most is the services you get after the sale. Not knocking on Shark cauz i don’t know their products and service.
I know DWC....I know you will be 100% satisfied with the training you will get with your purchase, as well as the ongoing training Laney does frequently. If you decide on DWC...you will not regret your decision! come join the family man!”
Response from Original Poster:
“I want to thank you all for all the great feedback! I think it’s not just the machine and the great customer service, but also the community that makes the DWC a great product.
I also want to especially thank Lee C., he has invited me over to his shop to see his DWC in action and is getting one of my files ready to be cut.
I’m looking forward to getting started”
Got Questions?
Thanks to all our customers who keep us in business and allow us to serve more customers year after year.
If you’re seriously considering buying a CNC router, let us know!
