Two entry-level CNC plasma brands competing for budget-conscious buyers. BurnTables from California and MaverickCNC from Arizona both target the DIY and hobby market with affordable, accessible CNC plasma systems.
BurnTables wins on price and size variety — more table options from 2x2 to 4x8 at the lowest prices in the market. MaverickCNC wins on build quality within the entry tier — their 4x4 and 4x8 tables use slightly heavier construction and appeal to buyers who want more rigidity without stepping up to mid-tier pricing. Both are solid choices for hobbyists; the difference is whether you prioritize price or build quality.
| Factor | BurnTables | MaverickCNC |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $1,800 – $6,000 | $2,000 – $10,000 |
| Table Sizes | 2x2, 2x4, 4x4, 4x8 | 4x4, 4x8 |
| Frame Construction | Bolt-together steel tube frame | Steel tube frame, DIY-assembly design |
| THC Included | Optional add-on ($300-$600) | Optional add-on |
| Software | BurnTables proprietary + Mach3 | Mach3 compatible |
| Warranty | 1 year limited | 1 year limited |
| Best For | Lowest-budget buyers, compact table needs | DIY builders wanting slightly heavier construction |
Both brands use steel tube frames designed for DIY assembly. MaverickCNC uses slightly heavier gauge steel and construction methods that result in a noticeably more rigid frame. BurnTables optimizes for the lowest possible price point, which means thinner steel and lighter components. For hobby cutting, both are adequate. For buyers who plan to eventually do light commercial work, MaverickCNC extra rigidity provides a better foundation.
Both brands support Mach3 CNC control software, giving users access to the same control experience and community resources. BurnTables also offers their own proprietary software as an alternative for users who prefer a simpler interface. The software experience is essentially identical between the brands when using Mach3 — any differences in cut quality come from the mechanical systems, not the software.
Cutting performance is similar between these two entry-level brands. Both produce acceptable cuts on mild steel up to 1/2 inch when paired with a quality plasma cutter. MaverickCNC slightly heavier frame results in marginally better accuracy on detailed cuts because of reduced vibration. On simple shapes and straight cuts, the difference is negligible. On intricate metal art with tight curves, MaverickCNC has a small edge.
BurnTables offers better value at the very bottom of the market — their 2x2 and 2x4 tables are the cheapest way to start CNC plasma cutting. MaverickCNC offers better value for buyers who want a 4x4 or 4x8 table with slightly better build quality. The price overlap at the 4x4 size ($3,500-$5,000 for BurnTables vs $4,000-$7,000 for MaverickCNC) makes this a close call where the MaverickCNC premium buys modest but real improvements in frame rigidity.
Tell us what you need and we'll connect you with qualified dealers. No cost, no obligation.
Prefer to talk? Call (480) 420-3198
For a 4x4 table, MaverickCNC costs about $500-$2,000 more than a comparable BurnTables. The premium buys slightly heavier steel construction, which means less vibration and marginally better accuracy. If you plan to cut frequently and eventually take on paid work, the MaverickCNC premium is worthwhile. If you are strictly a weekend hobbyist, BurnTables savings may matter more.
Both brands ship as kits requiring DIY assembly. Assembly time is similar — 4-8 hours for either brand. BurnTables includes straightforward instructions and basic tools. MaverickCNC also provides assembly guides and responsive support. Neither is significantly harder than the other. Both assume basic mechanical aptitude with hand tools.
You can add aftermarket improvements to both brands — better THC, upgraded stepper motors, and frame stiffening. However, the fundamental frame steel thickness and construction method set a ceiling on performance that upgrades cannot fully overcome. If you anticipate needing mid-tier performance, buying an Arclight Dynamics or Torchmate from the start is more cost-effective than upgrading an entry-level table.
Neither brand holds strong resale value compared to mid-tier machines. Entry-level CNC plasma tables typically depreciate to 30-50% of purchase price. Between the two, MaverickCNC holds slightly better value due to the heavier construction, but the resale market for both brands is small. Budget CNC tables are often passed along to friends or family rather than resold.
Both brands can produce metal art good enough to sell on Etsy, especially on thin materials (16-gauge to 1/4 inch). Clean up the edges with a flap disc, apply powder coat or paint, and the cuts from either table look great. MaverickCNC slightly better accuracy helps with finer details. For an Etsy side business, either brand is sufficient — invest more in your finishing techniques than your table.
Learn more about each manufacturer: