Shapeoko 5 pro- 4 month review

After having and running the machine for 4 months, here are my thoughts on my decision. The Shapeoko 5 pro has been a big addition to my shop in more ways than one.

For templates that I have made, check out my Etsy shop. I build files for projects and tools for laser engravers as well as CNC project files.

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The links below are affiliate links that will direct you to the product in this video. If you use this link for a purchase, I will receive a commission from the purchase. I remain unbiased and honest in my assessment as always.

@carbide3d
@vectric
@shopsmith

[stringpickr]

The Shapeoko 5 Pro in my opinion is an excellent machine and carbide 3D support is second to none. The 5 Pro allows an alternate place for the Y cross beam 3 inches forward to the standard setup. This places the bit three inches forward of the front table edge. I built a jig in the front of my table, moved the Y carriage forward to the alternate mounting bolt holes, moved the Bit Setter and reloaded Carbide Motion to accommodate Bit Setters new location and after moving the machine forward over the front edge of my table I can now drill dowel holes, cut dovetail slots and more on wider material edges. It’s a game changer. You can still utilize the full work surface by mounting your material under the bit when the bit is fully forward or just remember to position your material three inches out over the front of the spoil board.

[briansd]

Very nice set up. Looks like an optimal table build for the CNC. Thanks for the videos, you helped me start with laser engraving and learning the ropes.

[popshobbydungeon]

I love my 2x4 Pro 5
I am upping my game
I just ordered the water-cooled 2.2kw spindle kit. Cant wait to grind thru material
Regards, Pop's

[kevinrich]

Great review. Thank you. I came really close to getting the Shapoko 5.

[OldGuyDesigns]

You got you a good, well thought out setup. I have the original Onefinity woodworker and still use the Makita router, and it does everything I need so far. But I do drool over the thought of having a spindle, maybe some day. Can't go wrong with the Jenny bits, practically all I use unless need something Cody doesn't make, and still using the original Jenny I purchased, what like 4 years ago. Keep the videos coming, really enjoy them.

[RedheadRepository]

This is great. I love my 4x4 as well. I have 3D printed a bunch of different things for holding bits, including drawers. Also a nice little holder that incorporates magnets to hold the tools for changing bit on the spindle and holds the bit zero.

I also went with vectric for my needs and will soon be adding a wireless controller for jogging the machine around. I still have a dewalt quiet series with a cyclone for dust extraction, but need to change some electrical to be able to use the cnc and vac on the same circuit. I might try the spindle and vac though after seeing you showing it run that way. I had already bought the same relay funny enough. Turning on and off the dust collection is one annoyance since I haven’t automated it yet. Still working on my social media presence. For now just on instagram. Thanks for the videos !

[bigdawg]

Really enjoy my 5pro also. Great beginner machine.

[steveferguson]

Great review David. I am still saving for a cnc

[RicksCents]

*I’m in the Market I’m undecided which CNC to go with yet.*

[srae]

was their something specific that you did in the construction that was overbuild? I was planning to use 4x4 for posts and 2x4 for stretchers and cross beams..Just trying to decide how high., How high was your table? and can you tell me the inches from the table top to the top of the MDF parts?

[Pmckh]

I was wondering about the computer setup with the monitor in the back so thank you for answering that. Can you put a link to the caster wheels you have? I have some high single lock on mine but wouldn’t mind the double lock just to minimize movement when the machine is interpolating

[Curious_Skeptic]

I really think an 8' long bed is critical if you don't want to deal with a table saw or track saw. I with Shapeoko made an 8' bed/rail system and multi-head.

[loghaul]

Great Video. I just PURSHASED THE 5 PRO 4X4 ALSO. I AM USED TO USING Vectric Pro and Aspire but don't know which post processor to select when saving my toolpaths that will work with the carbide motion. Any help on this would be appreciated. Thanks AlexTKO

[hillscanlon]

Sorry but could you please explain the software and could I see the machine working???

[keithhoward]

I am looking at a Shapeoko 5 Pro and I was curious what is the dimensions of your work table top?

[scottmartinezguitarandbass]

I would love some basic plans for that table!!!